Boris halts Sheppard Robson's west London towers
Sheppard Robson's Hammersmith scheme
Surprise move could give new life to rival plans
Sheppard Robson’s controversial plans to redevelop Hammersmith town centre have been dramatically vetoed by Mayor of London Boris Johnson.
The scheme, which won planning from Hammersmith & Fulham Council at the end of November, involved demolishing the 1960s town hall extension and replacing this with a new square plus shops, flats and offices in towers of up to 15 storeys.
It was bitterly opposed by local campaigners as well as English Heritage and other conservation bodies whose concerns included the new development’s bulk and its impact on the skyline from the River Thames.
After the Mayor’s intervention, the council and King Street Developments withdrew the application.
Johnson said: “This proposal caused much anger in the community and I am glad that common sense has prevailed. We must protect historic buildings, precious green space and the views of our great city. I am sure the council’s decision will be welcomed in Hammersmith and beyond.”
The move could spell hope for rival plans which were drawn up at a series of charettes held by a dozen local practices in the summer. The group, calling itself West London Architects, was invited to present three proposals for the site to senior figures at the council last year.
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Readers' comments (3)
So refreshing to hear of a sensible decision upholding the views of so many. This was a proposal which apart from the visual and physical effects on the surrounding area would do nothing but harm to a thriving area and for no benefit to locals. Apart from opposition locally, groups on both sides of the river and local MPs of different parties united in condemning a scheme that was flawed from the start. Development quantum and inappropriate uses were driving the local borough's inflated self importance. It is disappointing that CABE in reviewing the proposals was only mildly critical of the loss of social amenities but generally welcomed the architectural design. Missing the bigger picture.
You fools.... An opportunity to sort out that dump of an area now lost.
And what's all this tosh about skyline and protected views?????
The alternative proposals look like a load of tosh.