Rush to find homes for Camden residents turfed out by HS2
hs2 train - Credit: Archant
Camden’s rock and heavy metal super-fans face being turfed out of their favourite pub as the council re-houses those left homeless by the construction of the High Speed 2 rail-link.
The Cape of Good Hope pub in Albany Street, Camden Town, is one of eight sites earmarked as potential areas to be developed into housing to make up for the 223 homes set to be demolished by the HS2 project.
Owner, Dylan Cole, 54, who was approached by the council in the autumn, said he had been given “no choice”.
“It’s been quite tough as I’ve been left in limbo, not knowing what’s happening to my pub,” he said.
“It’s never the greatest pleasure having to relocate but I don’t think I’ve got much choice.
“Despite all the claims from Camden Council about fighting the rail-link, I think HS2 will go ahead and the council will, no doubt, put a compulsory purchase order on my pub.”
Planning officers claim the pub and nearby car park could provide space for 22 homes. Other sites mentioned by planning officers include the Albany Street Police Station, Robert Street car park and housing units near Netley Primary School in Netley Street, Regent’s Park.
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Councillors were last night due to decide whether to approve the plans, with officers urging that progress needs to be achieved quickly if the council is to rehouse residents before construction of the proposed London to Birmingham rail link begins.
Responding to concerns about the pub, a council spokesman said: “The site, which is owned freehold by the council, is just one of a number being reviewed.”
