Developer appeals against Woolwich ‘skyscraper’ rejection
A proposed 27-storey skyscraper in the heart of Woolwich would “create a division based on wealth”, a public inquiry has heard.
The first of eight days of hearings into Meyer Homes’ appeal against the decision to reject its town centre development was held on Tuesday, November 19.
It comes almost exactly one year after Greenwich council’s planning panel unanimously threw out the plans, on the basis that it would represent “an undue increase in the urbanisation of the skyline,” and failed to provide “quality accommodation” for occupants.
Planning inspector Paul Griffiths, who will be tasked with chairing the hearings and presenting the results to the planning inspectorate once they are complete, said these were among the key issues the hearings would revolve around.
He added that the impact of the proposal on the area and heritage assets nearby, as well as the living conditions of existing and prospective residents, would also be discussed.
The opening statements saw the council and the appellants lay out their cases on the proposal, which includes 804 homes, a cafe, shops and a community room.
Speaking for Meyer Homes, Douglas Edwards QC said the district’s local plan dictated that the borough needed 5,000 new homes by 2030.
Everyone at the South London Press thanks you for your continued support.
Former Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has encouraged everyone in the country who can afford to do so to buy a newspaper, and told the Downing Street press briefing:
“A FREE COUNTRY NEEDS A FREE PRESS, AND THE NEWSPAPERS OF OUR COUNTRY ARE UNDER SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL PRESSURE”
If you can afford to do so, we would be so grateful if you can make a donation which will allow us to continue to bring stories to you, both in print and online. Or please make cheques payable to “MSI Media Limited” and send by post to South London Press, Unit 112, 160 Bromley Road, Catford, London SE6 2NZ
