Residents of Fitzroy Square are at odds over plans to resurface the pavement in the Square using York stone flagstones.
The gardens of Fitzroy Square
Novelist and local resident Fay Weldon is pressing for the makeover to include removal of the benches on the perimeter which she says attract gangs who "hang around in a sinister way".
Robert Bargey, secretary of the Georgian Group, which has offices overlooking the square, commented: "Fitzroy Square is one of the most complete Georgian squares in London. Judging by the number of local youths who gather there, they seem to like it too. They are not malevolent or malicious but in many ways they are a nuisance."
André Schott, of Fitzrovia Youth in Action, believes removing the benches would not prevent youths from congregating in the square. "They need somewhere to meet and be with their friends. If you take away the benches they will sit on local doorsteps."Labels: Makeover, Residents, Squares
