Labour’s Walpole Councillors, Paul Conlan, Binda Rai and Gareth Shaw are opposing Pathways housing development plans for the Northfields Allotment site and have launched a petition for local residents to have their say. 

Pathways say only a small proportion of the Northfields Allotment site adjoining Mattock Lane, is being considered for the development.  However, Walpole Councillors say any build on the site will destroy a key community asset. 

Pathways plan to build 18 new social homes and a further four homes for sale on the allotment site.  Walpole Councillors argue that these plans will destroy the site as a key community hub for the area, which is already densely populated. Residents can sign the petition by clicking here

Speaking on behalf of the Walpole Councillors, Cllr Gareth Shaw said

“The Northfield Avenue allotments are the hub of the local community, providing much escape from the surrounding urban environment, as well as learning opportunities for younger children about plants, food and wildlife. 

“It’s an invaluable resource that we appreciate.  Our residents are fortunate to have such an open space but for many of these allotment holders, it has been a labour of love, not just for a few years but for decades. For these reasons we must do all we can to protect this allotment from being developed.” 

He added: “Whilst we appreciate Pathways offer to work closely with allotment holders to find alternative plots on the site, we feel that Pathways are failing to recognise the instrumental role this allotment site plays in bringing the local community together. Allotment holders and their families have invested both time and money into their allotments and this is very evident to us all particularly during the community open days.”

In addition to the Allotment site, the Ealing based Pathways Charity, which provides supported housing for the over 55’s, is also planning to redevelop the 56 properties it already owns in Dean Court. 

All three Walpole Labour councillors will be working closely with the allotment holders and concerned local residents in objecting to these proposals.   

Sign the petition by clicking here

Contact Details: Cllr Gareth Shaw, 07789914379; Gareth.shaw@ealing.gov.uk