Given the current debate surrounding to the future of Clarendon Park, it may be worth recalling some of the events that have led to the proposed re-development, along with the CCTV centre.

This debate, once the original plan for an elderly persons day care centre in that location ran out of steam, began in March 2001. Councillor Len Silverstone and I set up a meeting for residents of the surrounding streets as a way of initiating debate as to the future use of the site.

We were motivated out of our concern to rid the area of its association with disorderly behaviour, drug-taking and the perception of violence. A straw poll at this meeting was 98 per cent in favour of re-development, including 60 per cent in favour of restoring the park to its more pleasant condition during the 1970s.

One of the worst features of the area, and the service road in particular, has been the association of young people with little better to do than the attractions of McDonalds, overflowing shop refuse bins and pot holes. Such gatherings, especially in the summer months, causes problems for residents and is symbolic of the relative lack of youth provision.

Later in 2001, however, I did persuade the then leader of the Conservative group Stuart Nagler that redevelopment of the area was a priority. The associated changes that will accompany the CCTV centre will do just that. The eyesore ex-WRVS building and dilapidated toilets will be knocked down, the park will return some considerable way to its former attractive state and security will be significantly enhanced through Police presence at the CCTV centre.

I am hopeful that the issues relating to access to the centre through residential areas can be resolved, even by diverting traffic along the service road, so that a package can be put forward that everyone is happy

with. The key thing is that this area, this blight on Borehamwood, can be made better. It can be made safe.

Councillor Tim Sandle,

Brookmeadow Ward,

Hertsmere Borough Council.

June 26, 2002 15:00