News that the UK Government has green-lit a huge development which will house Beijing’s representatives in Britain has been met with anger, including from those living close to the site.
This morning, The Guardian reported on a statement by the Royal Mint Court Residents’ Association, which outlined major concerns among the local community relating to plans for a China’s largest European embassy site.
The group has raised £37,000 from a target of £145,000 needed to cover legal fees. Since planning was formally approved today, the organisation has confirmed it intends to proceed and instruct lawyers to act at as soon as it is possible.
The development has caused wider controversy due to potential national security implications. This includes the proximity to fibre optic cables which are vital to the City of London’s businesses – one of the world’s leading financial centres and a crucial sector in Britain’s economy. Questions have also been raised about the role of so-called ‘dark rooms’ in the blueprints, and the impact on free speech and the right to protest at the facility.
Image: Bosh Ar / Unsplash
Leave a Reply