London SE1 > News & Features > October 2000

Citizens' jury delivers verdict on Borough Market

"An act of economic and cultural vandalism" is how jury foreman James Todd described Railtrack's plans for Borough Market.
Sitting at Southwark Cathedral, a �citizen's jury' drawn from local people was asked to use 12 official indicators to judge the Thameslink 2000 proposals. Five expert witnesses gave evidence.

The verdict was that the government's official yardsticks show that the Thameslink viaduct will undermine the quality of life in the Borough.

The Bankside Residents' Forum and other objectors are due to give evidence this month to the Thameslink 2000 Enquiry sitting at Bankside House in Sumner Street.

Simon Hughes MP will be appearing on Friday 6 October followed by the BRF on the following Tuesday. Also speaking will be Cllr Hilary Wines. On Thursday 12 October representatives of Neal's Yard and the Union Theatre will state their objections.
Dean Colin Slee of Southwark Cathedral is due to appear at 11am on Monday 16 October and the Bishop of Southwark will present his evidence on following day.

With many local people now being called to give their views on the Railtrack proposals it is expected that the public gallery seats will be filled in the coming weeks. The inquiry usually sits Tuesdays to Fridays.

www.tl2000inquiry.org.uk