Thank you for signing the petition concerning Friars Avenue Car Park.
I felt the letter from Crossrail was somewhat ambiguous and asked the organisation to clarify its position to the Council. I am now pleased to tell you that I have received a copy letter from Crossrail that explains that they do not intend to remove or take ownership of the Friars Avenue Car Park on a permanent basis.
Crossrail seems confident that it will not require the whole of the car park for the whole of the construction period. Crossrail Surface Director, Matthew White, has written to the Council to confirm:
“Whilst the Crossrail Act permits acquisition of the carpark to support Crossrail works, Crossrail’s intention is to work with the Council to find a mutually agreeable way forward that avoids permanent acquisition and instead permits Crossrail’s temporary occupation of the carpark in line with the commitment given. With the agreement of the Council, Crossrail will carry out the works in accordance with the undertaking and will withdraw the notice when the works are complete.
“The programme of works shows that Crossrail will only need the carpark for the duration of work at the station and on the tracks at Shenfield, currently expected to be between the second half of 2014 and mid 2016. When the work is complete the carpark will be handed back to the Borough Council; Crossrail has no wish or intention to keep the land on a permanent basis.”
Everything seems to be satisfactory but it is my experience that with these types of projects, a constant vigil is important and I can assure you that we will be keeping a very close eye on these undertakings.
Separately to that, whilst talking to the traders in Shenfield, concern was raised about the parking arrangements during the construction period. I am talking to Brentwood Borough Council and the County Council and when I have any further details I will be in touch again.