Lynne Featherstone

Lib Dem Councillors have called on Tubelines bosses to start consultingproperly over their plans to construct a new London underground controlcentre at Highgate Woods, N6. The calls come following an unproductive firstpublic meeting where Tubelines failed to address many of the concerns raisedby local residents and politicians.

Tublines Chief Executive, Terry Morgan had visited the site with Highgatecouncillors and local GLA member, Lynne Featherstone and assured them thatmuch of the concerns raised would be addressed and investigated. Two weekslater the same questions were being asked and very few answers were beinggiven.

The concerns of Ms Featherstone, local Councillors and residents are wideranging.

They include:

• The height of the 6m tall construction. Cllr Hare had requested at the site visit that Tubelines look into digging down and thus lowering the height of the building as well as covering it with greenery. However at the meeting Tubelines appeared to have not investigated the option thoroughly.
• Concerns over lighting of premises. Cllr Hare suggested that infra-red and not flood lighting should be used for security.
• Increase in traffic flow – particularly noise and lights associated with a proposed gatehouse behind residents’ houses. Also, concerns over traffic in and around the border of the woods in the early mornings and late at night.
• Vague answers over extra plantings to reduce noise and light disturbances

Cllr Featherstone and Lib Dem environment spokesperson, Bob Hare areconcerned at Tubelines’ failure to address the problems seriously andrespond with evidence-based arguments. They are concerned that some work hasalready started on preparing the site prior to end of the consultation withresidents over design. Because Tubelines is a ‘statutory body’, no planningpermission is required.

Cllr Featherstone comments:

“Tubelines are engaging with local people – butthe proof of the engagement will be in how far they amend their plans. Warmwords and good intentions will not be enough – now they have to deliversolutions.”

Cllr Hare (Highgate) adds:

“Tubelines must find the best solution toresidential and environmental concerns raised and we will pressing them forevidence-based responses to our concerns.”