THE BARRED SQUARES
[To the Editor of THE SPECTATOR.] StR,—May I suggest that the argument advanced in your article on the barred squares applies only to residential squares and falls to the ground in the case of those which in Central London are now occupied almost entirely by offices ? The residents are no more, and the influence on rents of the privileged use of the garden must be negligible. You say, moreover, " it is idle to suggest that they (the squares) would retain their present charm if they became public playgrounds." I venture to say that, if open to the public and maintained by the municipal authorities, their charm might be greatly increased. In support of this it is only necessary to compare Finsbury Circus, which is a public open space under the Corporation of the City and is one of the most beautiful as well as the most frequented square gardens in London (with seats for 30o persons, often all occupied), with Finsbury Square near by, a railed in and private garden, which might be made equally attractive but is now, with its four grimy seats, chiefly remarkable for the little use that is made of it.— Yours, &c., MARGARET E. TABOR. 148 New Cavendish Street, W. r.
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