The Pilgrim's Way, again.

On Ilderton Road, SE15 (this part is anyway), near the Tustin Estate and Manor Grove, looking towards Hornshay Street. The headlining estate in the photo is the Canterbury Industrial Estate. Just out of shot to the right, under the passing train, is a vintage ambulance station which I think was apparently protected, now will if not pulled down definitely be affected by the many new builds that are going to line that side of the road soon. The Tustin is facing demolition, apart from Manor Grove, saved for many reasons but the main one, despite what the council may say according to at least some of those living there, is because the council could not afford to buy out the freeholders. Manor Grove voted to save their part of the estate in the ballot, but although they got what they wanted others have not been quite so lucky. When unwanted demolition of homes is the preferred option, either to avoid the massive bills those in the three tower blocks face or because some homes have been allowed to fall into disrepair by the council, then obviously something is not right. 

For good reasons the Tustin warranted some photo project anyway, as others seem to have noted. Now we shall see if photos speak for themselves about what is happening. Tustin is a place of memories and character, home to many proud of where they are and come from, though looking after things as they should be is apparently a bit like holding back the tide in the face of 'managed decline'. Many homes, looked after as they should be, are strong, spacious, warm and dry, close to green space, shops, transport and a welcoming school. It is an amzing location, the Old Kent Road a key point in London, and about to become more so. The Monopoly board will probably need updating. Change is coming, whether it will be for better or worse remains to be seen. There have been positive noises about the most recent plans, the architects apparently listening to ideas and concerns of tenants and residents we been guaranteed a new place on the rebuilt estate, but Southwark Council are always able to row things back and ruin things until the last moment. 

We shall see.

                                                                        Pilgrim's Way