Conflict over Hanover Sq fun-fair plan

A row has broken out over plans to run a fun-fair in the heart of London’s West End formulated by retailers anxious to attract Christmas shoppers.

Businesses in Hanover Square, which lies adjacent to Regent Street, have objected to plans to block off the eastern side of the square, making way for dodgems and a carousel.

Estate agent Knight Frank & Rutley, which has offices in the square, is objecting to the plans which have been put forward by the Regent Street Association, a group which represents stores including Hamleys, Levi’s and Warner Brothers. The scheme has been passed by Westminster Council.

It is understood that magazine publisher Condé Nast – which has its head office in the square – initially objected to the fair, emphasising fears about traffic congestion, noise and litter.

However, pressure from the Regent Street Association – whose members include several Condé Nast advertisers such as Aquascutum, Austin Reed and Dickens & Jones – has led the publisher to withdraw its objection.

The fair is scheduled to be held between November 17 and 21, to coincide with the switching on of the Regent Street Christmas lights (MW October 22).

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