Last summer, before the Olympics, there was a music festival on Hackney Marshes that cut off the area for some time - not just the day of the event.
Public space becoming private space is not OK just because it is temporary.
In fact, the effects have been very long lasting with some of the cricket/football pitches still not usable. Don't play cricket or football myself but I think it is great to see people getting enjoyable exercise in the outdoors every weekend - and mixing with people they might otherwise not mix with.
After the event the Mayor of Hackney promised it wouldn't happen again.
But guess what! He wants to apply to be able to do it again! We don't have to worry - there's going to be a consultation!
Oh yes, the public consultation, which of course will rule in favour of the status quo. I have seen it all before... It just isn't cricket!
ReplyDeletePeter.