Westminster Council orders removal of 25-year street garden

An 89-year-old resident of St John's Wood has been instructed by Westminster City Council to remove a street garden she has tended for over a quarter of a century. Katharine Hoskyns received a formal notice in July demanding the removal of a bench and more than 20 plant pots from the pavement outside her home.

The garden, which includes geraniums, tomatoes, and herbs, was established by Ms Hoskyns after parking spaces were introduced on the street. She stated that she has never witnessed anti-social behaviour at the site and that the pots do not impede her use of a walking frame. She also highlighted the garden's importance for her social life and as a retirement occupation.

Council's Rationale for Removal

A spokesperson for Westminster City Council confirmed that the decision followed a series of resident complaints and unsuccessful attempts to resolve the issue informally over several years. The council stated that the removal of the bench was intended to reduce recent disturbances in the area, citing examples of drug taking and dumped rubbish. The council expressed hope for an amicable resolution and indicated a willingness to work with Ms Hoskyns to find a more suitable location for the bench and pots.

The deadline specified in the removal notice has passed, and the garden remains in place. Ms Hoskyns indicated she is awaiting further communication from the council.

Neighbours have expressed support for Ms Hoskyns, with one resident, Holly Bell-Stevens, describing the garden as a 'quiet oasis' that contributes to the neighbourhood's character. A petition initiated by Ms Hoskyns' son has gathered more than 190 signatures in opposition to the removal order.