In response to the decision of the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government to allow the building of 180 luxury flats on Crystal Palace Park to fund its restoration, Darren Johnson, London Assembly Member, commented:
"This is a disastrous and short-sighted decision. If the building of luxury flats on Crystal Palace Park goes ahead it will set a precedent and is likely to encourage further encroachment and development into other London parks and open spaces. It also appears to fly in the face of the London Mayor’s planning policies."
"Whilst I agree that Crystal Palace Park needs improvements, building houses to fund this is inappropriate and unacceptable."