I see that Finchley’s very own Mr Michael Bear is the new Lord Mayor of London, (‘Pomp and circumstance, Times Series, November 18).

I’m sure he is a worthy new Lord Mayor, and a knighthood usually follows, but let us not forget Michael’s day job as “regeneration director” of Hammerson, which Barnet Councill is allowing to build 14 million sq ft of space at Brent Cross Cricklewood, over the next 20 years.

Perhaps Michael can tell us all why he is doing that? For instance, the council’s website admits Brent Cross and West Hendon will add 29,000 extra cars every day to our roads.

The scheme increases road congestion and delays buses right across the borough, helped by more car-based development at Colindale and Mill Hill East. Won’t our traffic jams get much bigger, even in downtown Finchley, Michael?

More than 4,300 Londoners die prematurely each year, because of air pollution. Yet you are moving the bus station next to the ten-lane North Circular Road. Is that a good idea?

The first stage of your scheme will destroy light-rail routes at Brent Cross for ever, as well as long-distance cycle pathways. You will demolish the modern Hendon Sports Centre, 200 existing homes, a residential home, and modern parts of local schools. Just collateral damage, Michael?

You plan a huge domestic waste incinerator for Barnet and Camden. No one can quote similar plants that have not closed down or had serious accidents.

As you know Michael, for the past eight years you have had a fixed plan for Brent Cross, which could not be changed.

Your “consultations” have been merely public relations presentations. You have just announced: “Engagement, to ensure everyone is fully involved and informed”.

It’s a bit late now, when you have full planning permission for many things, and outline permission for all the rest. The location and height of every building is now fixed. The planning committee will have to rubber-stamp everything for the next 20 years, by law.

So, let us hear from you Michael, without the usual spin from your PR agencies.

John Cox
Chelsea Close,Cricklewood