We have informed you previously about the planned installation of the new Holocaust Memorial and Learning Centre in Victoria Tower Gardens, as announced by Government. Since then, the Alliance members London Parks and Gardens Trust and The Gardens Trust have come forward and expressed their objections against this project and the related planning arguments.
London Parks & Gardens Trust’s key point is that approximately 26% of the middle of this Grade 2 listed park, forming the setting of a World Heritage Site, will be occupied by the new Memorial and Learning Centre, which will irrevocably change the amenity value of the space. You can read more about London Parks & Gardens Trust stand on this issue here. The full text of their objection to the installation of the UK Holocaust Memorial and Learning Centre in Victoria Tower Gardens can be accessed here which points out that there are other options including the use of brownfield sites that have not been explored when proposing this scheme.
The Gardens Trust, although wholeheartedly endorsing the principles and reasoning behind the creation of this important monument, have also objected and expressed their serious reservations about the proposed siting of the Holocaust memorial in Victoria Tower Gardens. They believe that the initial decision to favour this location has been politically led, without reference to normal planning considerations. You can read The Gardens Trust’s comments here. The Gardens Trust will be submitting a further response once they have fully considered the new information.
London Parks and Gardens Trust campaign against the installation of the UK Holocaust Memorial and Learning Centre in Victoria Tower Gardens continues as a planning decision has yet to be made by Westminster City Council. Revised plans have been submitted by the applicant – the UK Holocaust Memorial Foundation (sponsored by the Ministry of Communities, Housing and Local Government). The alterations proposed make some adjustments to the design but ultimately continue to take up a significant amount of this historic park and alter its character so that it can no longer be used for general public enjoyment.