"Save Our Nonsuch!" say Sutton and Cheam residents

12.53.12pm UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 14th Feb 2007

Paul Burstow with local residents campaigning to Save Nonsuch

Hands off Nonsuch Mansion - that's the blunt message from local residents to Conservative-run Surrey County Council before it meets to consider proposals to sell the building.

A large group of local residents and park users gathered at Nonsuch Mansion on a wet Sunday this week to join Paul Burstow MP, Cllr Sean Brennan, leader of Sutton Council, and other Liberal Democrat council members to protest against plans which may involve sale of Nonsuch Mansion, to be considered by the Surrey County Council on 27 February.

Speaking on Sunday Mr Burstow said:

"Although Surrey County Council owns the park and Mansion, it has left Sutton and Epsom and Ewell Councils to maintain the property under a joint management arrangement."

"The County council has shown no interest in Nonsuch Park since the 1930s, and has made no contribution towards its upkeep."

"Out of the blue they have come up with plans to dispose of the building without any consultation with either council or local people."

"This is high-handed at the very least, but their belated interest raises concerns about their intentions for the future, given their own very difficult financial situation."

Nonsuch Ward councillor, Cllr Kirsty Jerome, who also attended Sunday's rally, said:

"I have spoken to many local residents and users of the park and there is considerable resistance to any proposal that would mean a change in their character or nature."

Paul Burstow will attend Surrey County Council's meeting on 27th February to put the views of local people before the matter is debated.

Notes to Editors:

Paul Burstow has written to Surrey County Council demanding an explanation for their unexpected interest in the Mansion and park. He has also met the Chair of the Friends of Nonsuch to listen to their concerns. The voluntary group has restored much of the interior of the old building, and opens it regularly for public visits.