I am writing as I am very concerned about the proposed development for part of the Finchley Memorial green space. The plans as they are now seem ill devised and risk taking away an important source for exercise and general well-being for the people of this particular neighbourhood.
My concerns are as follows:
First, I am opposed to using this green space. There is not much green space in Finchley and what is there should be cherished. This space is used extensively by local people.
Secondly, the plan does not suit the street. The buildings are ugly, too big and stick out stylistically. This is a beautiful neighbourhood and the developers should take a closer look at the existing houses.
Thirdly, there is no consideration for the already deeply problematic traffic in Bow Lane. I urge the developers to walk the street during daytime, especially when we are back to normal. Even when quiet, there are too many cars in the road and too many cases of road rage.
Lastly, there is no guarantee that these houses are indeed for NHS staff or that NHS can actually afford to live there. The highly rhetorical questioning (are you supportive of delivering ore homes for NHS staff?) suggests strongly that the developers cannot deliver on that issue. Why is this brought up in this particular development but not in other developments in Barnet? The proposal speaks of aspiration, but does not guarantee anything. This may it difficult to believe that this is anything but a cynical devise to sidestep genuine concerns.
I am sorry to say that, while I am in favour of affordable housing, I have yet to be convinced that this plan promises anything like that.
With best wishes
Hannah