Plymouth Sutton MP Linda Gilroy has joined local campaigners in fighting to save West Hoe Park.

Many residents in the West Hoe area are deeply concerned over plans by Conservative-controlled Plymouth City Council to sell the former tennis courts at Pier Street and the current planning proposals. These plans also threaten the train ride, which despite being a popular local feature since the early 1950's, has been told it must move "to assist the development of the tennis courts".

This is despite the fact that in last year's local elections, the Conservatives has promised to protect the Park.

Linda Gilroy said "West Hoe Park has been treasured by generations of local residents.  I  supported the previous campaign to protect the park. That is why I fully support Councillor Valentine Hiromeris in her efforts to hold the Conservatives to account and prevent them from building on our green spaces .

"I am also deeply unhappy about the planning proposal which is being submitted for the tennis courts.  Residents tell me that the consultation was held only for a very short time and when people could not attend. If what they tell me is true, it is certainly not in tune with good practice in these matters.  Some of the residents have been doing a lot of work on the history of the park and I will be doing my best to back them in their attempt to limit the impact on the park and to have some say in what is built on the tennis courts. "

Above: Linda and fellow campaigners at West Hoe Park.

28 April 2008