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We reported in the Winter 2019-2020 newsletter that a proposal was being prepared by Architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris for a new 25-storey tower block to the north of the A40 on Wood Lane.
The proposals replace Browning House, which is a 4-storey social housing block owned by Women’s Pioneer Housing (WPH). They are a housing association providing specialist accommodation.
An application has been submitted for a 29-storey tower, the proposals increasing the number of 2-person, 1-bedroom flats for WPH from 36 to 80, plus creating an additional 350 co-living accommodation units to be rented by developer HUB. These provide compact 1-person studio flats serviced by communal kitchens, living spaces and other facilities.
One justification for the 29-storey tower is the approval granted for the recently completed 34-storey ‘Ziggurat’ tower on the Imperial College White City campus site on the opposite side of Wood Lane. The latter was unpopular locally, but was approved on the basis that it was within the White City Regeneration Area. Tall buildings are only permitted under LBHF Planning Policy and the Mayor’s London Plan if they are considered ‘appropriate’, and are within one of four development areas identified in the Local Plan.
The proposed tower is located outside of the White City development area, which raises the questions: how are applications decided for tall buildings located outside, but adjacent to the outer boundary of development areas ? And whether approvals within development areas can be used as precedent to justify nearby developments outside of the area, that would otherwise not comply with planning policy ?
This application is understandably contentious with the local community, and letters of objection have been submitted, including by the Du Cane Estate Residents’ Association, who represent residents of the adjoining estate owned by Clarion Housing (copy attached below). They raised a number of objections, including how the 29 storey tower related to their 4-5 storey blocks and how it would affect their amenities, such as external green space, parking and transport.
Letter of objection – Du Cane Estate Residents Association
The Hammersmith Society has also responded to the planning application with a letter of comment – also below – and includes a request that LBHF address the concerns presented by the Residents’ Association.
Letter of objection – Hammersmith Society
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