The need for real assurances about the future facing the independent businesses that operate under the arches of London Bridge was the number one message that came out of a key meeting held today (Monday 27th June) between local businesses, Network Rail and politicians.
At the meeting Network Rail met with representatives of local businesses including Team London Bridge, Arch 897, Platform SE1 bar and restaurant, Southwark Playhouse and Arch Climbing Wall, as well as planning officers from Southwark Council and local Riverside Councillor Anood Al-Samerai, leader of the Liberal Democrat Group on Southwark Council. The meeting was hosted at City Hall by Caroline Pidgeon AM, leader of the Liberal Democrat London Assembly Group and Chair of the London Assembly Transport Committee.
The meeting covered the future changes that will take place to London Bridge, both during the reconstruction of the station and in the longer term.
After the meeting, Caroline Pidgeon commented:
“Everyone accepts that changes will need to take place to ensure that London Bridge station is improved and that it can handle far more commuters in the future. However the businesses that operate under the arches must not be overlooked. They have a right to know where they stand so they can plan for the future."
Cllr Anood Al-Samerai commented further:
“This was a useful meeting, but Network Rail need to be held to account over the assurances they have now provided to local businesses in the area. Network Rail might have to also go further and help find alternative premises for any businesses that regrettably have to move away.
“The businesses that operate under London Bridge are independent businesses which add greatly to the local community. We very much want them to stay in the area, but if that is ultimately not possible Network Rail must help them make the difficult transition of finding new premises so that they can at least remain in business.”
You can read more coverage of the issues faced by businesses using the London Bridge arches here at the London SE1 website.