Over 8 years ago when Labour led Southwark Council a Planning Application was approved. My understanding is that this planning application was approved (after its consultation was later described as ‘botched’) and led to residential development next to a nightclub business called Imperial Gardens. The club then felt it had no choice but to close. It’s very hard to keep neighbouring residents happy near a nigh club. What’s particularly sad is that this club had a track record of developing local talents.

One useful outcome was the Ouseley Report which made 35 recommendations for improvements to the council. Sad that the council had so much wrong that needed to be improved but at least they were identified and over the last 8 years the council has been transformed under a Lib Dem led administration. One key change in my mind is the introduction of Community Councils that involve local councillors in planning decisions.

Sadly 8 years of legal arguments and battles have taken place.

The final court case comes to court this October. I hope justice is done. I honestly don’t know what that should be. I sympathise with the club owners and with council tax payers. No one will be happy.

Ironically a new Labour led Southwark Council is in place to finally resolve this long standing issue that started all those years ago.