'Unhelpful Misapprehensions' Over Brentford Dock Access Restrictions |
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Electronically-controlled gates reportedly to be installed to exclude public
Brentford Dock Limited are reportedly considering the installation of electronically-controlled gates that would remove public access to the open area at the eastern end of the estate. The area is popular with both residents and members of the general public as it affords excellent views of the Thames. The restricted area would the ‘Point’ where the River Brent joins the Thames to the south of Ferry Quays. The walk beside the Thames parallel to the footpath on the Kew side would also be closed to the public. The land is private property but non-residents have been allowed access to it since the site was converted to residential use. The freehold belongs to Brentford Dock Ltd. (BDL) and it is believed that the move is being considered after complaints from residents by over-use of the site by non-residents particularly those having barbeques there. BDL owns the freehold of the Estate on behalf of its shareholders and leaseholders A spokesperson for the managing agent said there appeared to be ‘a number of unhelpful misapprehensions concerning this matter’ but said that they would need to refer to the owner before making a full statement. Jim Storrar of Brentford Voices said on the BrentfordTW8.com forum, “If the Dock residents regularly experience problems such as littering, noise, and vandalism then that is clearly unacceptable. However other means are available to tackle such issues. In relation to this matter does BDL have any moral responsibilities to the wider community in Brentford or should they feel free to do whatever they wish?” As the site is private land no planning application would be required by BDL to install gates. Brentford Dock is effectively a triangular “island”, bounded to the north by the Grand Union Canal to the south east by the RiverThames, and to the west by Syon Park, a 200 acre private park.
July 31, 2020 |