Conservative councillors intended to press ahead with plans to build on Oakfield playing field before last year’s election, according to a member of the administration.
Cllr Ian Bond, leader of the Lib Dem group which controlled the authority in coalition with the Conservatives until May, made the comments at last week’s full council meeting.
He said: “Had the Conservatives won the election last May, they intended – notwithstanding the view of the ward members – to press ahead with the development of Oakfield.”
His statement comes following heated debate over the draft local plan, which includes four options for development including building 800 homes on the site in Barkingside.
The Save Oakfield Site campaign – supported by Conservative Fairlop councillors Joyce Ryan, Tom Sharpe and Brian Lambert – has also been backed by sporting organisations.
Deputy leader Cllr Wes Streeting called for “proper debate”.
He said: “I know when Cllrs Sharpe, Ryan and Lambert oppose this it’s with integrity and sincerity, but I don’t think that’s necessarily true of every member opposite saying ‘save Oakfield site’.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here