Have used Watermans consistently for well over 25 or more years. Despite its shabbyness it was a super venue for watching a film and enjoying an Indian meals on the banks of the river. I was an ardent supporter of Watermans expanding and redevelooping this exclusive riverside site with its attached gardens and underground parking. It should have been turned into a must visit venue combining theatre, film, arts exhibitions, inviting cafe, and a restaurant with maybe spaces to hire out for private events. But NO - the site was far too valuable as yet more expensive flats - the so called art centre would be moved to a faceless concrete block away from the river with very little if any parking. Gradually, my friends and I reluctantly transferred our loyalties to the Olympic in Barnes. Susan, TfL transport from my home in Hartington Rd to even the exisiting Waterman's, quite apart from its planned new site further into Brentford, is likely to take at least an hour whereas it used to take 5-10 mins! Such a wasted opportunity to create a really special place on Brentford's riverside. Maybe there's still a chance as I believe English Heritage have halted things for the moment.
Jennifer Selig ● 2162d