Last updated 21/01/02
by Helen Parrott, The Post 16 January 2002
The unpopular prospect of another developer building a massive leisure development on historic parkland has reared its head again.
Bromley Council leader Michael Tickner has not ruled out the possibility that Crystal Palace Park top site could still be developed - just six months after controversial plans to build a cineplex were sensationally scrapped.
Residents claimed victory hoping that after five years of legal wrangles, court cases, European intervention and even eco-warriors, who took to the trees in protest, the council would now abort its development plans.
But undeterred Cllr Tickner said Bromley was still inviting bids from any business interested in developing the land.
He said: "It remains our intention to develop the site which is now derelict.
"The site does have planning permission for a development. If a proposal comes forward we would want to consult with the local community on that, whether it be a multiplex or hotel or sports and leisure centre, a retail outlet or restaurants.
"But it will ultimately depend on someone who can afford to develop it."
Cllr Tickner was responding to campaigners who have sent him an open letter this week demanding a say in the future of [the] much-loved park.
The Crystal Palace Campaign (CPC) wants the Bromley boss to work alongside residents to restore the land to its former glory and have called for "partnership and dialogue."
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Last updated 21/01/02