Since the start of this election campaign, Simon Marcus has been fighting hard at City Hall to keep a police station in Hampstead. Others talk and blame, while Simon takes action.
Having met Mayor Boris Johnson twice, and the Deputy Mayor for Police, Stephen Greenhalgh, Simon has been given a clear commitment.
In a message from City Hall, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor said they “will not consider a proposal to dispose of Hampstead Police Station until suitable alternative accommodation.
Simon says: “I went to City Hall to achieve three things: to make sure Hampstead keeps a permanent police station, share my vision for the future of the old building including a full-time station at the current site, and to make sure we have the backing of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor in everything we do. I believe in taking action and bringing people with me.”
My politics is about looking to the future and fighting the next battle. To win, Hampstead needs unity, not division. Politicians who attack City Hall and play politics with local issues cannot do this.
I now call on local groups such as the Heath and Hampstead Society, residents, local traders, councillors and officials of all parties, the Borough Commander and all who care, to unite to help us shape the future for a police station in Hampstead.
My Vision for the Future
The future must be about serving the local people, having a permanent full-time police station and preserving the beauty of Hampstead. The old building is Grade II listed, so we can ensure the Edwardian facade remains, as well as the court room.
The huge space behind could be used to benefit the community, providing flats for key workers, such as nurses, retail units for small, independent shops, a community and learning centre for people from all walks of life and, of course, a permanent, modern, well-equipped, full-time, police station. I want a win/win situation for the whole community, but I can only achieve this with your help!
Your Choice
If you elect me as your councillor, I will call an open public meeting about the future of Hampstead Police Station to ensure local people shape its future. It is up to all of us to take ownership, make our voices heard and make sure local people and Hampstead comes first!