TheCoalLine

@Abe_froeman Hi, it doesn't actually require acquiring any land but rather collaborate with the land owners along the way both public and private in order to safeguard the route and maintain public access. We are working towards something that works just as well for the land owner but also the wider public and neighbourhood.

Wow! that is absolutely incredible - thank you. What a great photo - well that is was the high-level part of the route is tricky in that location.

Dear East Dulwich Forum, Thank you. The huge mobilisation you played a part in yesterday has forced a dialogue with the developer, which is a start! However ?Bluecroft Developments' will not withdraw the application so we?ll need to keep up the pressure with as many objections as possible until Saturday ? This is really important to help us navigate the minefield of planning policy and swing it to save the Coal Line ? YOUR VOICE MATTERS. At the same time we need to collectively work out what an alternative for the stable yard could look like to enable the Coal Line to go ahead at the same time as new houses. The feasibility process for the Coal Line has involved talking to thousands of residents. Housing is a big priority for Peckham and we are open to collaborating with the developers to make sure that there is a better mix on the site to include affordable. The current plans would need to be re-arrange to save the original Victorian stable block and preserve a right of way for pedestrians and cyclists. We also need to safeguard any possible future link to the Nunhead section of the park that could only be accesses from this stable yard. Finally the site has to be integrated with the six double-height Network Rail arches, together the arches and stable yard have a big potential to create new local jobs and enterprise. We?d like to see some of the yard become a public space. Basically over the coming days we?ll be working up alternatives so we can take these to our meeting with the developer on Tuesday. Let me know if any of you want to get involved in this process. We?re in touch with many local groups including Peckham Vision, Peckham Citizens and others and we will try and arrange a meeting with other groups in the coming days to get advice and work out our collective priorities and approach. We will keep you posted but if you?d like to be involved let us know. Thanks again. The PCL team. As ever the best online places for updates are twitter. @PeckhamCoalLine facebook. https://www.facebook.com/peckhamcoalline Ps to clarify the route from the feasibility study (published November 2016) is attached.

Dear Edhistory, Thanks for your input ? you have been supportive in the past and we have supported your bookshop - that is what mutual collaborative constructive community is about? You know this is a project that is about bringing different groups together around a shared ambition and something that creates more public access and greater decision making for residents. We are trying to save a historic Victorian Stable block (shared heritage for future generations) from opportunistic demolition to make a terrace of low-density luxury house complex. The developers bought this site a few months ago secretly from D+R and it never went to open sale so we could not find out about it. This was well after the Coal Line was in the public domain. I have carefully looked around the whole site and could not find the two planning posters that are supposed to be displayed. We do check the planning register through due diligence not expecting anything and this is how we found this. This whole project to create a new space in conjunction with neighbours and not in isolation ? it is run solely by volunteers who do it because of the new connections and the opportunity to learn from each other that happens through the process of meeting different communities. It is very socially rewarding and it goes some way to better understanding what?s important to those engaging collectively. In joining in the conversation you are part of that as well ? which though difficult is still valued. We are absolutely not against housing on this site ? in fact there is the opportunity to create something denser and much more affordable. The current scheme sits at 9 houses just below the threshold of 10 where they are obliged to provide affordable housing and they have to contribute less CIL. We simply want the developers to acknowledge that they have a duty to engage the neighbours. After all it is the neighbours that have made the neighbourhood they are profiting from.

Dear Peckham Coal Line supporters old and new, Its been brilliant meeting so many of you at the local summer fairs and events over the last couple of weeks and months. The Peckham Coal Line will only happen thanks to our collective enthusiasm and vision to push the project forward and now you're needed more than ever. Following a last minute planning discovery ? The Peckham Coal Line needs your help by Saturday 15th July 2017. Unfortunately we stumbled across a planning application late this evening for 39b Consort Road, SE15 2AA. This address is actually a large yard, which, if developed as proposed, would have a catastrophic effect on the future of the Peckham Coal Line. Developers know we are working towards a park and are scrambling to develop the green spaces along the route before they are protected. Unfortunately ?Bluecroft Property Development? recently got hold of a key part of the route. On the site is a fantastic old Victorian stable block. There is a cobbled yard and potential access to some amazing double-height rail arches. The developer wants to knock down the Victorian warehouse and stable buildings and build across the yard and green spaces. This is a real tragedy ? firstly the buildings should be listed because they are unique, beautiful and part of our shared heritage. Secondly it blocks off a vital part of the Peckham Coal Line route, making it near impossible for the two sides to join up ? closing off the area to all of us and gating it for a few. Finally it is a really poor use of space which could instead be a fantastic opportunity to integrate the arches, old buildings and surrounding houses to make something for everyone. Please find links and template letter here: http://www.peckhamcoalline.org/blog/urgent-the-coal-line-is-under-threat-from-developers This happens ahead of the Community Launch of the crowdfunded feasibility study as part of the Peckham Festival in September. Thanks again. The Peckham Coal Line Team.

Is it possible to change the name of a thread please? How do i change it to "The Peckham Coal Line Urban Park"? The crowdfunding completed last November so its a bit misleading now - thanks.

Hi John K and Nigello, Thanks for your input into this thread. Please note we are volunteer run and don?t check in on East Dulwich Forum as much as we would like but if you sign up to the newsletter on the website you get regular updates on there. Otherwise if that?s not for you then there is also a blog section on the site which is updated with news (www.peckhamcoalline.org). Thanks for the info about the rail line John and regarding your query about the accounts publishing - we formed as a Charity Incorporated Organisation (CIO) (Registered Charity Number 1165247) in December 2015. We had to have a minimum of 6 months before we could file accounts so we have only just entered the period in which we could actually do that however as is normal practice we will do the first set after a year so expect to see these in December 2016. This is also be when we hope the feasibility will be published, In the meantime if you want to get involved we?d love to hear from you. The project is as much about the journey and new local social connections as it is about the physical park, this is likely to happen in small stages over time.

Hello East Dulwich, Amazing - We?ve done it! Just before the weekend we received Southwark Councils pledge of ?10000, which, with your pledges to date, means together we have reached the target. With just 5 days left and an ever growing wave of momentum we want to see just how far we can get, with more of course we can do more and stretch the scope and reach of the Coal Line further. For this reason the ?10000 pledge will be included at the last minute because if it were added now the campaign would close ? this allows those of you who still want to be part of our journey the chance to join in this movement. Together we are proving that we have the ability to transform where we live ourselves rather than it imposed by external forces ? so as we close the first chapter its not too late to join in the story. Come and meet your fellow pioneers at drinks at the Hope this Thursday from 7pm: https://www.facebook.com/events/761467337294940/ Thanks, Nick http://www.spacehive.com/peckhamcoalline

A quick update. We are now at 60% with 24 days to go. If any of you are around on Saturday afternoon please come down to Peckham where we are doing a 'Beer Line walk' - a history trail between the areas breweries (Gosnells, Brick, The Nines(bar) and Rebellion) to support the Peckham Coal Line Park - each brewery is producing a Coal Line drink for example Brick is making a porter - this dark beer was traditionally drunk by railway workers. We are celebrating the areas industrial past and future - supporting local business, raising money for a park and drinking beer.. whats not to like.. so come celebrate October and the Peckham Coal Line. Event details here: https://www.facebook.com/events/861880243866111/ Crowdfunding Spacehive: http://www.spacehive.com/peckhamcoalline

Hi all. Thanks, yes it was ?10000 from the Mayor. Just to let you know we'll be doing some walks as part of Open House this weekend for anyone who is interested. There is a talk at the CLF cafe (1st Floor of Bussey Building) at 12.00 tomorrow and 12.00 on Sunday and then walks on the hour from 1pm-5pm Saturday and 10am-midday on Sunday (starting same place). The Mayor's pledge was a big help but we still have a long way to go to get to the total (Its an all or nothing deal and the deadline is the 31st October). - so thinking about planning applications is very much a next step. It is important that the Coal Line becomes part of the new Southwark Plan which outlines the ambitions for the council so please ask your councillors to support this. Please come along and hear what it's all about tomorrow. Thanks again for the support. PCL Team

Just to update you: the project was featured on BBC London news yesterday evening: http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b069x456/bbc-london-news-15092015 (expires 7pm this evening) Yesterday we received significant financial backing from the Mayor of London towards the project. Mayor Boris Johnson said: ?The Peckham Coal Line project is a fantastic example of how we can harness the enthusiasm of civic crowdfunding and work more directly with Londoners to improve their neighbourhoods. I urge you to go online and help your local project reach their total.? We said: ?Community spirit is unquantifiable and intangible but we all recognise that it is a vital asset and driver of a successful city. The skills of connected residents are an underused resource, We are reaching a time where Architecture can no longer be prescribed. Successful urban initiatives have to be adopted, embraced and loved by the people who use them. This sense of shared ownership can best be fostered when communities either instigate or are included in the process from the outset. So this is our time to make our own opportunity not just take what is given to us. This progressive approach means a shared responsibility in making things happen and the Coal line needs commitment from the public, from charities, foundations and corporations. We need government to step up and we need businesses to invest in making this a truly shared endeavour. So if you are an individual, or you represent a business or government agency and you?d like to help pioneer a future approach to urban space through an exciting project that, despite its modest budget has transformative potential, then join our journey. Donate through Spacehive and let us know how you can help.? We still have a way to go ? so we?d really appreciate your continued support. @edhistory - detailed planning applications are part of the next stage. We have outline support from all the key stakeholders/landowners.

Thank you for your support, engagement and notes of guidance. We?ve written a blog about some of the bigger issues we face which you can read about here if you are interested: http://peckhamcoalline.strikingly.com/blog/how-can-we-make-the-coal-line-right - your feedback is welcome. @peckham_ryu The Coal Line gives access to four otherwise blocked off arches. We believe that the rent from these and other potential commercial spaces combined with revenue generated from holding occasional events on parts of the park will generate the funds needed to operate, making it economically sustainable. This would likely be managed by a friends group with guidance form the council and set up as a charity, any excess would be reinvested in the park or put back into the local community. http://www.spacehive.com/peckhamcoalline Below is an old photo of the sidings in operation that you might find interesting. CC R C Riley transporttreasury.co.uk http://peckhamcoalline.strikingly.com/blog/how-can-we-make-the-coal-line-right

Katanita, Thanks, Its more that the video is not representative the project rather than the Coal Line not being representative of Peckham. We?re trying to do allot with very little and we did all the filming over one day of the Chelsea Fringe walks, which, as many of you identified, attracted a specific demographic. We have visited all the traders at Queens Road and along Rye Lane, most love the project as they realise the opportunity it could give small business both in the short and long term. We regularly meet with Peckham Vision and the Tenants and Residents Association throughout Peckham and our working group is made up of residents from across Peckham?s wide spectrum. We will be making other videos and are learning that meaningful engagement takes a long time. We?ll continue to meet, talk and connect to our neighbours. But weather you see the project as an opportunity or threat it is still a talking point, a chance to feel passionate about something local. This is the Coal Line?s greatest strength as it is helping build networks around a shared idea and in the long term these networks form the basis of a strong, resilient community, easily mobilised in the face of external threat.

We've got really exciting news about the Peckham Coal Line park's progress which needs your input and can be found in the "lounge" section of the forum: http://www.eastdulwichforum.co.uk/forum/read.php?20,1561549,1561549#msg-1561549

Sorry now deleted this and PM Mark

Dear East Dulwich Forum - The Peckham Coal Line is now Crowdfunding through Spacehive. Take part and help this resident initiated project move one step closer to creating an urban linear park that would connect South London. An oasis of greenery soaring high across the rooftop-tops of Peckham on a disused rail siding. A route as useful as it is beautiful, unlocking dormant Victorian infrastructure to connect neighbourhoods and High Streets and people to work. The project would turn the overgrown Peckham Coal Line into a high level, linear park and a much needed link between Queens Road Peckham and Rye Lane; a garden sanctuary above the urban jumble of decaying Victorian warehouses and frenetic colourful markets. Back in December when a small group of residents proposed the idea, you, the east Dulwich forum community were instrumental in allowing the idea to take off. To turn this project into reality we need that public enthusiasm and energy, which has brought the project so far, turned into commitment. More than a park ? a vital connection: The 900-meter link will be for walkers and cyclists and will bridge a gap in a wider network of greenways that would run largely traffic free from Brixton to Greenland Dock where a new bridge to Canary Wharf is proposed by Sustrans. Amble in the trees, meet friends, read a book, wonder at the views, feel the history, pick some fruit, watch a play, grab a coffee, get to work, get away from work, work up a sweat, feel the seasons, support a local shop, learn to bike, see some art, go to a gig and connect with a community that is preserving nature and ensuring that the Coal Line becomes an asset for all. Our shared journey so far: The project has captured the collective imagination. We have featured in local and national press and have the support of councillors and Network Rail. Our walks in May had well over 1000 people sign up and our supporters and volunteers come from across SE5, SE15, SE22?s diverse spectrum of residents; this is one of the projects un-doubtable strengths, drawing from the pool of talent, experience and energy the neighbourhood offers. However this is also a project for London with cultural and transport benefits felt across the capital. crowdfunding site: http://www.spacehive.com/peckhamcoalline

Thank you again for all the comments. @ Charles Notice & @anonymous_third_part, It?s great you are interested in the project and tried to see it from the train. Let me address some of the points you raised. 1. Physical viability: Unfortunately its not possible to see the coal sidings from the LB train but I promise you that the six of us including two architects would not have spent our time on something impossible. You have to get up to the site to do a physical survey otherwise the most accurate free map can be found at http://maps.southwark.gov.uk/connect/southwark.jsp?tooltip=yes but this doesn?t show enough detail. Finally if you can get access to the roof of the Bussey you can see down partially onto the site and realise the viability. The path would be between 4m & 8m wide along this first stretch. 2. Safety: It is proposed that there would be a 2m dividing wall between the live tracks and the linear park. Leaving 2.5m for network rail engineers and trains (well within NR guidelines), this leaves 4-8m (variable) for the linear park. There are plenty of precedents for segregated paths next to live railways up and down the country. The local East London Line path around Millwall (a continuation of this path) is a good example of this. 3. Environment (Noise): Yes absolutely there would be noise (loud screeching), there would also be bustling market sounds, traffic sounds, mechanics beating out car doors, scaffolding poles being stored, birds tweeting and wind in the trees. The idea is to embrace all theses urban sounds that would change and contrast along the entire length of the path. The views also change ? from views across towards London to a wooded area and a section beneath Victorian arches as well as the highline section. 4. Who owns the land and who will pay for it: NR own the majority of the land, they presently have to spend to maintain it. We are working with Urban Grain Consulting and are also in conversation with Sustrans and Team London Bridge about funding options but funding is very much a next step after we have NR and the council backing the project. We are working on creating more moving visuals of the route to help everybody understand to concept. Here is a computer animation of the path to show the concept (not design): If anyone knows a film maker who might be interested in voluntarily helping us make a short clip of the site please get in touch. Thanks again for your support, Nick.

Kiera I hope the following map and diagram makes it clearer: http://i61.tinypic.com/20i6oib.jpg basically is comes down gradually after Consort Rd and then crosses Gordon at Rd level. PohSuan - Thank you, yes I'd very much like to come and talk to the residents association. Please PM me all the details and I'll get in touch or you can email me at [email protected] Thanks, Nick

Firstly thank you for the support and feedback regarding this community project. I will try and answer some of the questions: 1. Will we update on here? YES certainly ? although it will be a slow moving process as we will be working with bodies such as Network Rail and the council so it is unlikely that there will be anything to report for at least a few months but I will certainly relay how we are proceeding. 2. I can?t see the Coal Line / is it even feasible? It is difficult to see the old coal Line on the Google satellite images as the overgrown vegetation does a good job of hiding it. It is easiest to see from the 1835 OS map: - now you will notice the Coal Line only runs to Gordon Road however today this is the start of Kirkwood Green Space so it is the combination of old and new that make the continuous link possible. Unlike New Yorks Highline the park would run next to live tracks. Network Rail requires 1.25m from the track for train to pass +0.7m as an access corridor for railway maintenance workers. ? Even allowing 2.5 before the new wall/fence dividing the park from the line this would leave between 6m & 10m for the park along the first section (It widens & narrows). Where new footbridges are needed i.e. over Consort Road the path would narrow to 2.5m however in places such at Kirkwood Green Space it would be over 20m wide. 3. What are the details of the design? So we are just at a very early concept stage we have not detailed any designs as we don?t know whether Network Rail are open to the idea. What we are trying to do first is gather local public support for the idea to present a case to Network Rail that this is something that the community would like. We also need to try and persuade them that a public greenway would reduce their need for regular rubbish and tree clearance along what is a predominantly south facing site where the tree growth is prolific. When we do come to design ? this will be community led. 4. How does this link into the wider greenway from Brixton to the Thames? There is a map on the website but to give you an idea. Going WEST from the park entrance at Peckham Rye Station the route could potentially go down Holly Grove linear park then into Warwick Gardens; at the far western end of Warwick Gardens there is again plenty of room adjacent to the rail track to create a link around the back of the houses onto Camberwell Grove, from here walker/cyclists take Windsor Walk around and into Ruskin Park and on to Loughborough Junction. Going EAST the Park ends at the new square at Queens Road Peckham ? from here you need to walk/cycle down Asylum Rd to Bingfield Park ? then its through the park ? over the Old Kent Road and onto the East London Line Greenway which runs car-free almost all the way to Southwark Park from here you can go through Surrey Quays to towards Sustrans new proposed Thames crossing to Canary Wharf or go through Southwark Park to the Rotherhithe Tunnel. On the other side you can join the Limehouse Cut canal, again car free all the way to Stratford and beyond! Now we need some help from the community. We don?t have any funding as yet but we would like someone who is interested in getting involved voluntarily with this project who has links with the media and can do press releases and begin to bring attention to the project. Please get in touch if this interests you or you know of anyone suitable. Also it would be great to talk to anyone with any experience of getting similar community projects off the ground. Thanks again for all your support.

Yes good question. The line goes above the scaffolding yard and is not part of the area used by D+R so the idea is to leave the business unaffected. However the path would need to use the top-half of the last one (or preferably two) high arches before the bridge where the rail lines cross so we'd like to work with the owners about how this might be possible and what opportunities there are for integrating some scaffolding into the design of this elevated deck section; the area under the deck could continue to be used for storing scaffolding as it is currently. We are definitely be keen to talk to them about the idea and I will contact them in the near future.

Dear East Dulwich Residents, If you are interested in Peckham Rye please join our community initiated proposal to bring the disused high-level Ricketts Coal line back into use as a park: http://peckhamcoalline.strikingly.com With your help this resident initiated park would create an elevated green finger above Peckham town centre acting as an oasis that would negotiates its way through contemporary chaos and industrial past to reconnect communities at Rye Lane & Queens Road. This highline also has wider network potential; by linking two parts of the national cycle network it would be possible to create an almost continuous green route stretching from Brixton to Rotherhithe with the future potential to reach Canary Wharf. This idea was only launched a couple of days ago so it is at the very early stages. Please visit the website, join the Facebook group and spread the word. If you or anyone else you know might want to get involved please let me know. The council are aware of the idea but we need to gather more public support before we approach network rail who will decide whether this is viable on their property. Thank you in advance for your support. The Peckham Coal Line http://peckhamcoalline.strikingly.com https://www.facebook.com/peckhamcoalline?ref=aymt_homepage_panel http://i59.tinypic.com/2ciw3r.jpg http://i58.tinypic.com/1zd6nhd.jpg