Borough Market Thameslink threat

Actress Susannah York has joined the growing campaign to save Borough Market from Railtrack's Thameslink 2000 proposal.

The new viaduct would involve the demolition of 26 mostly listed buildings including homes.

The public inquiry is now sitting at Bankside House and will be hearing the residents' alternative plan.

"We are not opposed to transport improvements" says well-known solicitor Benedict Birnberg, who until recently had offices in Borough High Street and is representing Cathedral area residents. "But there is a perfectly feasible alternative. The existing four track rail through Herne Hill where some Thameslink trains already run can be developed."

Globe Artistic Director Mark Rylance, who lives at Herne Hill, also backs the alternative proposal which he believes would benefit the Elephant & Castle regeneration.

"We have a right to a little town centre" says Mark Rylance who sees the cathedral and popular Borough Market as a vital part of the community. "I agree completely with the residents of this old and important part of London."

Simon Hughes MP, speaking at a press conference in the threatened Wheatsheaf pub, warned that victory by Railtrack would have a devastating and irrevocable effect. Cathedral Ward councillor Hilary Wines said that the plans are a threat to the economy of the area which is not just historic but a living community.

Camilla McGibbon of the Bankside Residents' Forum said that the Railtrack plan was expected to involve four years of construction work which would be intolerable. "For residents this would be a no go area and we don't know where to go."

Also protesting are film makers who claim that the unique location not only promotes Britain but brings American tourists who contribute to the economy.