Sarah joins Lib Dems demonstrate to protect Portobello Road

4.00.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 9th Nov 2007

Sarah and local residents campaign to save local shops

Sarah Ludford has joined Kensington and Chelsea Liberal Democrats in protesting against possible plans to radically alter Portobello Road.

Commenting on the demonstration, which took place outside threatened Woolworths, Sarah said:

"The construction company didn't want this demonstration to go ahead, but it is important to express the views of residents. Lib Dems are not willing to let this local residents be ignored, and we are determined to make our voices heard."

"It is hard to avoid the impression that both Labour and the developer have tried to pull the wool over the eyes of local residents. The assertion that 'there are no plans' to redevelop the Woolworths site must be set against the fact that a planning application to do just that, which would have threatened local shops, was submitted. Only through community action was this plan withdrawn. That is why we have to keep making sure our voices are heard, and I applaud Kensington & Chelsea Liberal Democrats for their energy in doing so. Residents have a right to stand up for their local area, and protect what is important. It is not about opposing all development, but ensuring that the views and interests of the community are not overriden.."