These Streets Belong to Us and The Sydenham Society are working together to oppose the proposals for further retail development at the Bell Green Retail Park. The blue gas holders - now under threat of demolition - represent a rich historical heritage for lower Sydenham and Perry Vale. They should be protected and celebrated - not torn down.

We believe that our community should be protected from over-development of land and spaces. The existing retail park has increased local traffic with more heavy goods vehicles clogging up our roads and spitting out toxic fumes. We want our streets and roads to be cleaner, safer and more friendly. That's why we believe that more out of town retail units should be stopped and instead we should invest in our high streets at Sydenham, Forest Hill and Catford.

If you would like to find out more or get involved in the campaign you can email us at saferperryvale@gmail.com or find us on facebook.

These Streets Belong To Us is a campaign group formed by local people who live in and around Houston Road, Perry Vale. We are passionate about our community. We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy the neighbourhood; feel safe to walk, cycle or drive; appreciate the heritage that defines our area and embrace new innovations in road safety, clean air and a friendly environment to work, play, go to school and live.

The Sydenham Society was founded in 1972. It is one of more than 350 civic societies in the UK. It is a member of Civic Voice, the national organisation representing civic and amenity societies. Its aim is to be a voice for Sydenham and to make SE26 a better place to live and work. It strives to protect and improve services and amenities which impact on the local area. Its main areas of interest are Conservation & Planning, Transport and the Environment.

With thanks to Natasha Barton for her image of the Bell Green gas holders. Visit http://natashabartonprints.blogspot.co.uk/ to see more of Natasha's work.