Crossrail 2 plans to demolish Dalston homes blasted by Hackney Council

Crossrail 1 construction work in progress.

Crossrail 2 plans to demolish homes in Dalston and build a vent shaft near Ridley Road Market have met with opposition from Hackney Council.

In its formal response to Transport for London’s rail proposals, the council called for a “fundamental rethink” to protect residents and local business, and the area’s “much-loved character”.

The plans would knock down buildings in Bradbury Street to erect a new station entrance and ticket hall, construct a ventilation shaft and escalator in Birkbeck Mews, off Ridley Road, and build station tunnels, another vent shaft, and a station entrance and ticket hall on land south of Dalston Junction, near Bentley Road car park.

Cllr Guy Nicholson, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “The council supports the opportunity of a Crossrail 2 station in Dalston, but it should not come at the expense of residents, local businesses or the area’s much-loved character.

“The council has made it clear to TfL that it cannot support the demolition of properties in and around Bradbury Street, and is supporting residents and businesses in calling for a fundamental rethink on the proposals.”

The council has also opposed TfL’s plans to build a two-storeys high ventilation shaft near Shoreditch Park or the Britannia Leisure Centre – two of the sites being considered. The permanent access and vent structure would be 25 metres squared and take six years to build.

Cllr Nicholson added: “Proposals for an access and ventilation shaft on the site of the Britannia Leisure Centre or in Shoreditch Park are unacceptable. Shoreditch is one of the fastest growing communities in Hackney, placing great demand on the park and its leisure facilities.

“This is a vibrant part of Dalston town centre and home to a number of residents and valued independent businesses in buildings that make a real contribution to the area’s architectural heritage.”