Phoenix Academy proposal refused by H&F

Hammersmith and Fulham Planning Committee narrowly refused the application for the comprehensive redevelopment of the Future Academies site, the Phoenix Academy, because they accepted the officer’s recommendation that the scheme was unacceptable on multiple planning grounds.

First, the committee considered the proposal’s scale, massing and design to be overbearing and visually harmful. The two new residential blocks, rising to eight storeys, were judged likely to dominate the site, damage the local townscape and introduce tall buildings that would disrupt the skyline. The design quality was also found insufficient to justify tall buildings in this location.

Second, the scheme was found to harm heritage assets. Its height and bulk would fail to preserve the character and appearance of the Old Oak and Wormholt Conservation Area, eroding its low-rise estate character and openness. This harm was not outweighed by public benefits.

Third, the committee was concerned about poor living conditions for future residents. The layout would create inadequate daylight and sunlight in some homes and leave parts of the shared amenity areas too shaded to function well as attractive usable spaces.

Fourth, nearby occupiers would be adversely affected. The height and massing would reduce daylight and sunlight to surrounding homes, especially at the Calyx Building and Hayter House, while also creating an overbearing and enclosing effect.

Fifth, the loss of sports facilities and open space was not justified. The application failed to prove the existing facilities were surplus or that any replacement provision was of better quality, contrary to policy.

Sixth, the affordable housing offer was considered inadequate in amount, tenure, mix and location.

Seventh, the scheme raised concerns over biodiversity, tree loss, lack of proper habitat replacement, and an insufficient amount of children’s play space.

Finally, the committee objected to the overprovision of school car parking, which was seen as inconsistent with sustainable transport objectives and potentially harmful to highway conditions.