Highgate residents and local groups are demanding that work stops on the controversial plans for a solid six foot high acoustic fence along the top of the Highgate station cutting.

The move follows a public meeting last Friday organised by Lib Dem Councillors Bob Hare and Lynne Featherstone, at which residents backed three alternative proposals which would be fairer to all, and avoid the environmental impact of a motorway style fence in the highly sensitive area.

Local groups and residents at the meeting backed three alternatives – a low acoustic fence with wire fencing above, along with planting of native species on the slope; a ‘wire-only’ fence as previously installed, with intensive planting behind; or a wooden slatted (picket style) fence also with planting.

Cllr Bob Hare comments: “We must have a solution that is fair to all. This meeting has come up with some very flexible alternatives. I do hope that Transport for London and Tubelines will see sense and acknowledge the concerns of local groups and residents.”

Cllr Lynne Featherstone adds: “I have written to Transport for London putting the views of the meeting to them and asking them to think again. They must respond positively and back an alternative proposal.”

Notes:

Under the current plan, the fence, which is designed to reflect sound, will stretch from the top of the escalator (beside the Woodman pub on the corner of Muswell Hill Road) all the way to Shepherds Hill.

It would be six feet high for much of its length, although lower at the Shepherds Hill end (where there is no ‘drop’ behind it). It would block views of the greenery alongside Highgate Station. It will look rather like a fence around a building site, but would be permanent.

Acoustic fences are often used alongside motorways where sound protection is needed for residents. It is designed to reflect traffic noise, in this case, back towards the shops and the pavements.

The acoustic report was only sent to Cllr Bob Hare and distributed by him to others after an earlier meeting where the decision for a six foot fence was made. This report says: “There has been no significant effect on traffic noise levels at residential properties around Highgate Station as a result of the removal of vegetation for the embankment stabilisation works.”