Lib Dems demand urgent action to save Boston Manor House

12.00.00am GMT Sun 8th Feb 2009

Local campaigners Cllr Andrew Dakers, Dinti Batstone and Mona Naqvi outside Boston Manor House, Brentford

Lib Dem campaigners Cllr Andrew Dakers, Dinti Batstone and Mona Naqvi today called for Hounslow Council to take urgent action to save Boston Manor House from continued decay. Boston Manor House is the Borough's only Grade I listed building on English Heritage's buildings at risk register. A study in early 2008 funded by GlaxoSmithKline highlighted the need for over £1m to be invested to restore the property. English Heritage good practice would also suggest a business plan for the property's future management should be put in place. Almost a year on from the report's publication and the local community is still waiting for action.

Cllr Dakers, Leader of Hounslow Liberal Democrats, said:

"This Tory-led administration has had three years to take action yet scaffolding is still propping up one of the borough's finest historical assets.

"I welcome the news that a report is soon to come to the Borough Executive setting out options for the building's future. However another report collecting dust on the shelf will not be much use. What we need is investment by the council so a full-time project officer can secure funds and see rapid delivery. Gunnersbury Park - a grade II* listed building - already has a full-time development manager."

Mona Naqvi, local campaigner, added:

"Masked with scaffolding, graffiti and broken windows, Boston Manor house is in a sorry state. It is a real shame such a significant building can only be visited by the public on weekends.

"The Friends of Boston Manor Park have already made great progress in improving the park and its facilities. Fully restored, the house could be used for multiple purposes by the community. With proper funds and management this wonderful building could serve the area as a location for education, community group meetings and significant events, such as weddings."