London Underground (LU) are today facing a storm of criticism in Highgate from local Lib Dems and residents over their decision to press ahead with a controversial seven-foot wooden fence along the embankment near the Tube station. The swift erection of the fence in the last two days follows requests this week that the LU stop work so that a more acceptable option could be discussed.

Councillor and GLA member Lynne Featherstone, who had asked for the works to be stopped and chaired a public meeting in Highgate on the issue last week, is writing to Tube bosses and the London Mayor to express her dismay and to urge the company to think again.

Lynne Featherstone, who inspected the site with local councillors Neil Williams and Bob Hare this morning, comments:

“It is extremely disappointing that London Underground have gone ahead with this fence, when they have been asked by so many to call a halt to the project so that a more acceptable solution can be found. This is not the end of the matter.”

Cllr Bob Hare adds:

“This unacceptable fence will probably be the only example in the country of this sort of sound barrier being used to reflect sound back at the people who live and run businesses right beside a main arterial road. It could so easily have been altered along one of the lines recommended by councillors and residents last week.

“The London Mayor must intervene. His noise strategy includes a map showing that the Archway Road is one of London’s worst in terms of noise. This really is not a fair solution and the visual blight of such a high fence will be bad news for residents and for the businesses trying to make a living in the area.”