The Best Guide for the EN9 Area

Voices Raised Over Who Will Benefit More

2012 Olympics Update

I was interested to read in The Cheshunt & Waltham Mercury local paper recently that voices were raised between councillors on the subject of who will benefit more from the 2012 Olympics coming to the area.

The White Water Canoe site will be erected in the overflow car park area of Lea Valley Park and the entrance will be on Station Road (a small section of the road between Waltham Cross and Waltham Abbey which starts as Eleanor Cross Road and ends as Highbridge Street) which borders the two authorities of Broxbourne and Epping Forest Council.

Councillor Paul Mason (Broxbourne) stated that he believes the global event will "somewhat bypass" his neighbours in Waltham Abbey "They haven't really got a lot to offer so they're going to grasp whatever opportunity they get.  It will have mimimal impact on them.  I can't see many people coming in through Waltham Abbey.  It can't compete like Waltham Cross can."  He was annoyed by comments from Waltham Abbey Mayor Councillor Stuart Pryde (Paternoster) in response stating that he felt it would have a "bigger effect on Waltham Abbey than any of the other surrounding towns".  The voices were raised and Councillor Paul Mason appeared incensed by Councillor Pryde stating "Waltham Abbey is steeped in history, has pubs and restaurants and a market square and is nearest geographically to the venue", he also pointed out that tourists to the area will have the choice between the historic Abbey on the left and 1970s shopping precinct on their right. 

As one of only a few residents that live in Station Road almost opposite the new Olympic site and on the exact council border line, we are obviously interested in any discussions and development on this project. 

We personally feel it is not about who benefits more - it is about the whole area benefitting from this unexpected opportunity to enhance both towns.  The original site was to be in Broxbourne, but the water source was found to be contaminated and plans were changed for a brand new facility.

We are hopeful that the transport system will improve to accommodate the influx of people over the Olympic period in the summer of 2012 as we have concerns over the extra traffic congestion it would generate without an improved viable public transport travel alternative. 

It would also be great if all the derelict or boarded up buildings were renovated - good to see something happening to the house next to Tescos for example (uncertain if this has anything to do with Olympic money, but pleased as this has been abandoned for more than 10 years - thanks to Duncan Phillips developers).  

AMA would like to know what is going to happen to the site of the Old English Gentleman pub (photo above) that is a real eye sore as you enter the Town and will be in full view of visitors.  Why has it remained closed for so many years.  The building is now a danger and health and safety hazard as it is rapidly falling apart.

I will be asking our local Councillors about the planned improvements and will report my findings on this page, so please take a look again soon.

What would you like to see improved in the EN9 area?  Do you have concerns about this new development? Please comment below, we will forward your ideas and concerns. 

I hope this opportunity will lead to taking more pride in the local community and being excited about being the chosen site not only for the Olympics, but also that a state of art sports centre for canoeing will remain for the future, which can only be a positive thing as it will bring more tourists and visitors to the area every year to mutual benefit to local businesses.

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Comments

Maggie R

At 20:25 on 1st August 2008, Maggie R commented:

I agree with most of your comments. Hopefully a satisfactory answer will be found regarding the Old English Gentleman, such a shame it could have been a very attractive feature. Lets also hope that the Waltham Abbey toilets in Highbridge Street take on a "new" look in time for 2012. I'm sure both towns can and will benifit from the good fortune of hosting the White Water Canoeing Site. I'm most interested in reading other residents opinions. This should be a very proud moment in our history, let's make sure it is.

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Diana B

At 17:45 on 2nd August 2008, Diana B commented:

I would also like to know what will be happening to improve the area especially transport links, obviously existing stations, bus routes will be used, but there could be a huge influx of cars - where will they park? And one bus every half hour?
Otherwise I am very much in favour of siting the venue at Waltham Abbey, I hope that any money recived for this project will be used wisely.
I think we should always look to the future, without forgetting the past,

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