Boris Johnson’s backing for plans to build 180 houses on Crystal Palace Park has been condemned by Darren Johnson, London Assembly Member. The strength of feeling locally was reflected in a 8,000 signature petition which Darren Johnson presented at the London Assembly on behalf of the residents on the 14th June 2006 against this development to the former Mayor, Ken Livingstone.
Darren said:
"The selling of land within Crystal Palace Park for 180 private luxury flats to fund the park’s regeneration is unacceptable. Not only is it counter to the strength of local feeling but will set a precedent that is likely to threaten the future of public parks and other open spaces throughout the country."
"The London Mayor is contradicting himself by running a competition to enhance London’s parks whilst at the same time giving the go ahead to build over a large section of one."