Mayor of London approves controversial 12-storey redevelopment (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Mayor of London approves controversial 12-storey redevelopment

1:20pm Friday 31st August 2012 in News By Alexandra Rucki

The Mayor of London has approved a highly controversial 12-storey redevelopment of a Battesea estate.

The Peabody Estate, in St John's Hill, will be revamped to provide 527 new homes in high rise blocks.

A number of objections to the plans were submitted, including criticisms from Northcote ward councillors, the Wandsworth Society and the Clapham Junction Action Group (CJAG).

Despite fierce opposition, Wandsworth councillors gave the plans the green light during a planning committee meeting back in July.

On Tuesday Boris Johnson confirmed the plans will go ahead, with a warning that any appeal of his decision would be costly.

The report compiled by a London Councils planning officer said: "All issues raised at consultation stage with respect to housing, mix of uses, inclusive access, sustainable development and transport have been resolved and the application now accords with the London Plan."

It will mean building work taking place for an expected 10 years to replace the existing building, with serious concerns by residents about traffic chaos and a lack of play space for children.

Cyril Richert, speaking on behalf of CJAG, said: "Although it is a long time and councillors might bet on residents to forget about their decision, a majority of them have voted in favour of a plan that will transform Clapham Junction within the next 10 years, with work construction and incredible pressure on some roads in the area.

"The number of social units provided by Peabody will have been reduced by a third."