Art v. homes and jobs
From Mr Lance Cantor Sir: As an antidote to your magazine's usual conservative tone, it was refreshing to read Andrew Gimson's recent article ('A distant mirror', 12 October) regarding the so-called 'Peace Mural' in Hackney, although as the 'abominable capitalist' proposing the development I was disappointed to note the important omissions.
As is evident from even the most fleeting visit, due to years of neglect and mismanagement Hackney suffers not only from official crime rates comparable to Soweto's, but also has some of the highest levels of unemployment and sub-standard housing in the country. The potential benefits of redevelopment are not only the new pedestrianised town square mentioned but also, far more importantly, the creation of hundreds of desperately needed jobs, as well as the provision of numerous 'affordable' homes, all of which would benefit local people.
As Mr Gimson stated correctly, English Heritage did indeed, after thorough inspection and research, grant the Hackney Peace Mural full immunity from listing, thereby indicating the work to be of insufficient quality to warrant pres'ervation.
With the proposed redevelopment having received unprecedented and overwhelming support from councillors, local residents and businesses, I fear that Mr Gimson will find himself extremely isolated. Even Mike Jones, the artist involved in its creation, clearly demonstrated his own enthusiasm for preservation by keeping him waiting for two months before agreeing to meet.
Lance Cantor
London WI
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