A Planning Inspector has ruled that two Woolwich tower blocks can remain standing, overturning previous demolition orders.
Woolwich: So, here’s the scoop. A couple of tower blocks in Woolwich were supposed to be torn down, but guess what? They’re getting a stay of execution. A Planning Inspector decided they can stick around.
Back in September 2023, Greenwich Council told Comer Homes to demolish the buildings. They claimed there were a bunch of issues with the original planning permission from 2012. But Comer wasn’t having it and appealed.
These towers, one 23 stories and the other 15, are home to 204 flats right on Woolwich Church Street. After an inquiry that stretched from July to September last year, the decision came out on January 9.
The inspector, John Braithwaite, noted that Comer admitted the original plans weren’t followed. Still, he pointed out that the council must have seen the construction happening, given all the changes made until early 2023.
He said it was pretty obvious that things were moving along, especially since the site is right next to a busy street. So, he granted planning permission for the buildings as they are now.
He also mentioned that the 204 flats, including 28 affordable ones, are a big plus for a borough that really needs more housing. Some features of the buildings were even praised, like their sleek look without those bulky wrap-around balconies.
But there’s a catch. Comer has three years to make 11 changes to the buildings, or the council’s demolition order will kick back in. They need to swap out those bright orange panels for something more neutral, which the council agreed on.
Other updates include adding fire-resistant glass to balconies and making the properties more accessible. Plus, they need to submit a detailed work plan to the council in the next three months.
On top of that, Comer has to cough up £2.3 million to help local facilities and another £4.4 million for affordable housing contributions. They also got a partial cost award against them for pulling back on one of their appeal points.
Residents had mixed feelings. Some in the nearby Mast Quay Phase I wanted the blocks gone, while others in Phase II were all for keeping them. The Save Our Sails Action Group even told the council that they thought the buildings were solid and shouldn’t be demolished.
A spokesperson for Comer said they were pleased with the outcome and looked forward to working with the council. Meanwhile, a council rep emphasized their commitment to holding developers accountable for any unlawful actions in the area.
