Many thanks to the many attendees of our Lodge Lane information sessions held at the artsdepot last week.
Over the last number of months, we have been working on progressing proposals with particular focus on three key issues:
The bus station – we have been working closely with Transport for London discussing and modelling any potential changes to the bus station. However, the level of change proposed and its impact on the bus network does not bring any additional benefits to the running of the bus service. As a result, the bus station will not be moved as part of any of the development proposals.The artsdepot – we have been discussing the future of the artsdepot building at length with the management of the facility. Whilst at one stage we considered providing a new facility, the discussion concluded with the management that changes can be made to enhance the current building. This along with feedback from the public has resulted in the decision to keep the artsdepot in situ.Lodge Lane carpark – following the Council’s consultation at the end of 2022 on potentially moving the leisure facilities currently at Great North Leisure Park (the Finchley Lido Leisure Centre), the Council has decided not to move these facilities to Lodge Lane car park. As a consequence, we have been working on alternative proposals with our wider consultant team. The slides, as shared at the events, can be found [HERE].
We were delighted that so many of you were able to join us at our events last week at which a number of different views were aired. We have taken extensive notes of all questions and discussion points raised at the event and are working through all the additional comment forms too.
We have summarised the key themes arising at the events:
Parking - current use of Lodge Lane car park and EV charging pointsProposed massingProposed usesImproved public realm and proposed pedestrianisation of Ballards LaneThe market and any potential replacementHow to encourage active travel (walking and cycling)Timing of application and construction starts on-siteEnsuring safety and antisocial behaviourAccessibilityEnhancing Percy Road playgroundEnsuring good communication and engagement with the wider community We have committed to returning to North Finchley for the next masterplan engagement event later this year.
We are working hard to try and talk to as many different local groups as possible, however, further introductions are always welcome. Do get in touch at northfinchley@regal-london.co.ukif there are others that we should be contacting.
North Finchley