The Wandsworth Planning Application Committee rejected a proposal for a 28-storey tower at One Battersea Bridge.
The decision was made during a meeting on Thursday, 24 May, where the committee concluded that the proposed development was excessively large and would disrupt the character of the waterfront. This decision aligns with the borough’s Local Plan, which outlines acceptable building heights and aims to preserve the area’s character.
Simon Hogg, leader of the council, emphasized the committee’s role in scrutinizing applications, considering both the merits on paper and the voices of residents.
Cllr Hogg said; “The Committee is responsible for the scrutiny of applications and considers the merits of an application on paper as well as the voices of residents. The committee were unanimous about the harms of a 29-storey tower in this location, in breach of Wandsworth’s Local Plan which sets out acceptable heights for the area.”
The council officers had recommended refusal of the application due to its height and scale, which were inconsistent with the guidelines set out in both the borough’s Local Plan and the London Plan. The report (2024-1332 East) detailing these recommendations is available on the council’s website.
The Planning Applications Committee plays a crucial role in ensuring that land use in the borough benefits local people. It acts independently to translate local views into decision-making, reflecting the community’s interests and concerns.
While the proposal was rejected, the need for new housing in Wandsworth remains pressing, with over 3,600 households classified as ‘homeless’. The council continues to seek solutions that balance development with community needs, ensuring that any new projects align with local plans and contribute positively to the area’s character and infrastructure.
We covered the submission here.
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