P152 - South London
Headlines - Park protection victory
claimed - 14 September
2004, South London Press (Trinity Mirror Plc 2004)
CAMPAIGNERS are claiming victory in a long running fight to protect
part of a popular park. A Government inspector has ruled that the top
site of Crystal Palace Park should remain a public park and can only
be used for development in special circumstances.
The site was previously earmarked for the construction of a cinema complex.
Developers would now need to satisfy strict criteria to be given permission to build on the site. Crystal Palace Campaign chairman Ray Sacks said the new ruling was a victory for his group which has been critical of Bromley council over its plans for the site.
He said:
"We believe this is the ribbon on the trophy in terms of the protection of the site."
A spokesman for Bromley council said it welcomed the decision.
He said the status would not necessarily prevent developers from building on the land.
He said:
"People would have to demonstrate in planning applications very special circumstances. It is possible planning permission could still be granted."
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8/10/04 Last Updated 8/10/04