Letters to the Editor - One way to ensure better representation for Soho?

Published: April 30, 2010

• DAVID Cameron’s “big society” is perhaps the most interesting idea to come out of the election campaign.
He wants people to get involved to make a difference where they live.
The trouble is most of us can’t be bothered.
And the political parties don’t help.
Soho is a case in point.
I believe it is years since the West End ward (Mayfair, Soho, Fitzrovia) had a councillor who lived in Soho.
I think this really matters. Imagine a councillor who lives in Soho, cares about Soho, and represents Soho. Would Marshall Street baths have been closed for 13 years if this was the case?
Would Berwick Street market have seen so little improvement in the six years since regeneration was announced?
Trenchard House is another outstanding example of neglect in Soho – but that’s another story, as it’s owned by a government regeneration agency!
There is a very strong case for councillors living in the place they represent – these matters should remain at the centre of public and political debate.
Perhaps the main political parties can learn a lesson for the future. If they don’t, the “big society” may mean that others emerge to push them to one side.
ANDREW MURRAY
Berwick Street, W1