Hullo Perryman,

I tired soooo hard to get that tunnel opened for us. I even got the Bat Conservation Trust to go over *exactly* what we wanted to do. They said yes - no problem, but the London Wildlife Trust just wouldn't have it. Not allowed to go anywhere near a bat roost they said - "It's a criminal offence". They wouldn't be moved!

Tried for the subway under Crystal Palace Parade as well. Alas, the Rangers (very good people) have been told that slightly flaky brickwork on the outside elevations is a health and safety hazard and they're not allowed to let anyone in. I know houses that have worse facades than that.

Isn't it infuriating?

The Green Chain extension will cross the South Circular at the lowest point of Horniman Gardens and then take the existing route through the housing estate and woods to the 'Pissarro Bridge', through a gate (existing) on the western side and then straight along the railway trackbed to the tunnel mouth. It's unlikely to be made suitable for cyclists. Indeed, the use of kissing gates might well be to deter them!

Come along on Sunday and bring your bike. A couple of people did last year!

Best

Ian