Acton High Street....
Whether you were for or against the Oaks redevelopment, it will hopefully have a positive impact on the high street itself which is desperately in need of the council to put in place a clear and considered strategy to improve it in pretty much every sense.Having lived just off the high street for 4 years, I have no doubt that it could be a great location to eat and shop and be something that those of us who live in Acton could be proud of and enjoy using. The majority of the buildings are original (unlike places like King Street in Hammersmith which Has had significant investment but still suffers from poor modern architecture); many of the retailers on Acton High Street are usefull to have such as hardware stores, pharmacy's and pubs such as the the George & Dragon. However, there is without a doubt far too many fast food outlets, betting shops etc which ruin the general feel of the place.The council have invested in major schemes such as the former town hall; I would be in favour of the library turning into something for the local community, although surely this development could be combined with another use given the prominent position on the high street, I.e. a restaurant at ground floor and community arts centre or something similar above or visa versa. I suppose the council will have reference to what the developers will be providing in South Acton for the local community as part of the redevelopment.The high Street could be a fantastic place if it received a bit more care and attention from the council, it is frankly looking pretty unkempt and could be improved 100%.
James Nicholls ● 2992d2 Comments