• IN response to Diana Bradford’s letter (Tarmac for York stone, March 30) and concerns with the repaving on Tanza Road, I would correct the letter as the tarmac was existing.

The previous tarmac had weathered – so less pronounced than the new black tarmac.
I have contacted Ms Bradford about this.

The tarmac against the York stone paving is quite harsh and so I have met Camden Council’s officer and the contractor to see what can be done. It would appear that the cost to replace the tarmac with York stone would be around £80,000-plus.

It would require a considerable quantity of York stone which is unlikely to match what had been laid which would mean that all of the York stone would need to be lifted and the new York stone mixed, sorted, and relaid.

The compromise alternative might be to use a gritstone material as used at Whitestone Pond in a colour (buff) which would be more sympathetic to the York stone. I have arranged for a sample area in the material to be laid at the top of Tanza Road so that residents and local groups can inspect and make comment prior to a decision being made.

Over the weekend I leafleted all the properties in the street and tried to speak to as many residents who were home to get their opinion on this matter.

It is, of course, disappointing that councillors and residents weren’t notified about this earlier and in similar situations going forward better council consultation should be carried out.

I am told that the sample area will be available from about April 12 so please pass on any comments to me via stephen.stark@camden.gov.uk

CLLR STEPHEN STARK
Conservative,
Hampstead Town ward