F.A. Albin & Sons Main

Barry’s Diary - January 2011 “Kings Stairs Gardens” Statement

11.01.2011

LOCAL BUSINESSMAN & RESIDENT BARRY ALBIN-DYER OBE,

SPEAKS OUT AGAINST THE THAMES WATER TUNNEL PROJECT

IN KING’S STAIRS GARDENS

I have patiently and anxiously watched the development of this saga. I wanted to take time to read all the relevant documents and consider the pros and cons of this huge undertaking.

Having quietly done just that, I feel it is time as a person who has a business that has run for over 200 years in this community, who grew up, works and indeed lives and enjoys social time here, who often walks through this beautiful, compact park area to express my dismay that this site comes under consideration.

The controversy over Thames Water’s proposal to use King’s Stairs Gardens for the construction of the Thames Tideway Tunnel ‘super sewer’ is something I’ve been following very closely.

I cycle most mornings and evenings through this small park, which is one of the few green spaces left near the river.

Having read all the relevant documents and considered the pros and cons of this scheme, I believe Thames Water should find an alternative site for its project.

We have, of course, accepted much change in our area in recent years. Most people don’t oppose change if it improves their quality of life.

But if this proposal went ahead, we would lose something that local people love and value. And the project would cause disruption, increased traffic, noise, and disturbance to residents.

I will give any personal support I can to this campaign to save the park.

It is time for us all have to make a stand. My message to Thames Water is this: NOT ON OUR DOORSTEP.