‘We have urged the police to use drones rather than noisy helicopters’ [Peter Trimming_CC by 2.0]

• WE were delighted at attend a public meeting organised by HyPER, Hyde Park Estate Residents, on June 27 at St John’s Parish Hall.

Around 50 people attended the meeting, together with police and the Church Commissioners, and it was a pleasure to meet so many people and to answer questions raised.

Issues raised by residents include:

— Helicopter noise.

We have urged the police to use drones rather than noisy helicopters when they are keeping a watch on demonstrations in the West End. Recently the Royal Parks confirmed they have no objection to the police using drones over Hyde Park.

— Affordable housing.

This is a top priority for the new Labour council and we will be insisting on at least 35 per cent genuinely affordable housing in all new developments proposed by developers. The planning committee recently refused an application that provided only 7 per cent.

— Bus route cuts.

We share residents’ opposition to the proposed bus route cuts announced by the mayor in response to the government’s demands for TfL service cuts. We have urged residents to object to the bus route cuts and to write to the transport secretary to request that he provides TfL with the finances to run London’s transport system.

— Traffic.

Many residents raised concerns about rat-running traffic and speeds. We support their calls for traffic calming and improved air quality and we are keen to have discussions about the way forward.

— Local shops.

We have urged the Church Commissioners to introduce more local shops to the area, such as a butcher, baker, and deli, to serve residents and increase footfall for existing traders.
Other issues raised with us following the meeting, and by email, have been taken up with city council officers.

CLLR JUDITH SOUTHERN
CLLR MD SHAMSED CHOWDHURY
CLLR PAUL DIMOLDENBERG
Labour, Hyde Park ward