Wednesday 10 November 2021
Richmond Council says it was “forced” to start the compulsory purchase process so Twickenham Riverside can be redeveloped.
The Twickenham Riverside Trust currently has lease of the land which includes Diamond Jubilee Gardens.
The council says terms were agreed with Trust members in early 2020 to try and secure a voluntary “surrender” of the lease.
But the Trust says it will be lodging a strong objection to the order.
Cllr Gareth Roberts, Leader of Richmond Council, said:
“It must be remembered that the land is leased to the Trustees and made available to the people of the borough, and the people of the borough have been quite clear that they want to see a whole site solution delivered for Twickenham Riverside, rather than a piecemeal approach. This therefore must include Diamond Jubilee Gardens – which originally the Trust agreed to.
“We have always been committed to working in partnership with the Trust to ensure that we are on the same page. And so far, we have been. The Council has gone above and beyond to accommodate the Trust, while still retaining the integrity of the Hopkins design we all love so much.
“We have come so far with the plans for this site. But we can’t be left with uncertainty over the Gardens’ inclusion. Our commitment to redeveloping the Riverside and making it a place for everyone will not be deterred.
“Whilst it is incredibly disappointing that the Trust made their announcement that they would not be supporting the scheme on social media, rather than proactively engaging with us, our generous offer is still on the table. I hope that they will change their minds and continue to work with us in the future. Regrettably due to the Trust’s position and the uncertainty that means in terms of delivering the scheme, we have to progress the CPO process in parallel to seeking to reach a negotiated agreement.”
posted by Radio Jackie News Team @ 11:00 pm
