The Romany Hut off Lyford Rd in Wandsworth Common houses a much-loved scout troop and a playgroup, as well as a beautiful patch of open space for wildlife. Therefore I was saddened to hear that the owners, Magdalen Tennis Club, have issued an eviction order to a section of the land that the playgroup uses, as part of the plan to lease the site to a developer that wishes to build a nursery there. While the tennis club and developer are providing options for the Scouts (and possibly the playgroup) to stay at the site, I am concerned about the long-term protection that will be provided as part of any such deal.
I’ve met with the Scouts (the leaseholders) and am helping them to set up a Community Interest Company as part of their plan to retain the site as a community asset. I am also working behind the scenes with Wandsworth Common councillors to ensure that other avenues are explored to protect the Romany.
On the one hand, there is the possibility that the various parties reach an amicable solution that protects all of their interests (though this will, inevitably, require some compromises). On the other, it may be that the combination of the Community Asset listing, planning protection and the covenant that exists on the site, is enough to prevent the land being developed.
You can stay updated by following the Twitter account @SavetheRomany and you can sign their petition here . Additionally I'll continue to keep you updated on developments as they arise.