Hayes and Coney Hall Councillors have welcomed the new hedge planted alongside Layhams Road by Bromley Council ahead of the deadline.
The new hedge was secured after lobbying by Josh, Thomas and Alexa following the illegal encampments by Travellers. These incursions have occurred yearly at Coney Hall Recreation Ground, disrupting local residents’ ability to use this cherished park.
The hedge will take between three and five years to mature fully. It will act as a protective barrier for the park –
along with the lampposts, trees and wooden posts along Layhams Road. This means that the large convoys that often attempt to gain access to the park will find it near-impossible. A hedge also means that the defensive barrier will be in keeping with the natural surroundings – enhancing the green environment that has been cultivated by residents and superb local groups like the Friends of Coney Hall Park.
Cllr Josh Coldspring-White said:
“As someone who has lived locally all my life, I share residents’ deep frustration that a small minority have been able to tarnish our public spaces; making them inaccessible to residents who work hard and deserve nothing less than excellent open spaces to enjoy.
“The new hedge is significant. It is the first long-term, sustainable solution to tackle this problem and sends a clear message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated locally. Thomas, Alexa and I are proud to have delivered this and look forward to continuing to do all we can to ensure Coney Hall is a great place to live.”
