30 JULY 1927, Page 15

OPENING THE LONDON SQUARES

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]

Sur,—I have read Dr. Saleeby's letter on the above subject with the greatest interest, and would like to add my voice to his in his appeal to the owners of the London squares. The lot of the London child is indeed pitiable, and anything we can do to brighten his existence should no longer be delayed.

When I was in Adelaide recently I was taken to see the Glover Playgrounds. To provide these playgrounds the City Council allots portions of public lands, and pays for their

upkeep, and the Education Department appoints, and pays, a Supervisor for each. Why should we not turn all our London squares into children's playgrounds, each with its supervisor and shelter-shed ? The provision of shelter-sheds is, in our inclement climate, a necessity, and anyone who knows the little open-air school in St. James's Park will realize that these structures, so far from detracting from, may add to, the amenities of an open space. As Dr. Saleeby sug- gests, let Cavendish Square be the pioneer in this Children's Playground movement. Surely some doctor's wife might call together a committee of ladies resident in the square, and put the matter in hand at once. The Local Authority concerned will, I feel confident, by liberally interpreting their rules and regulations, offer every facility for such a project.