Kew Bridge development
Developers St George condemned over Kew Bridge appeal
Scheme labelled a "feeble vision" by councillors
Local councillors have called for a rethink on the controversial Kew Bridge development following the news that developers St George plan to appeal against the decision to refuse planning permission for a scheme that could see eight storey apartment blocks built on the site.
"The
intensity of local interest, awareness and activity around the Kew Bridge
development is a testament to the recognition among local people and councillors
that it is a landmark site of unique importance. Any
development must make the river side an integral and accessible part of
the community, enhance the visual look and establish a bold and coherent
design vision.
Unfortunately St George's proposal doesn't meet these high aspirations
of the local community".
The four councillors - Ron Bartholomew, Ruth Cadbury, Patrick Edwards
and Valerie Lamey - are keen to point out that they are not opposed to
the priciple of the site being developed.
"Local opposition has never been to development but to the nature and quality of the plans proposed and it is deeply regrettable that a company with the experience and considerable resources of St George's could only propose an unimaginative and over developed scheme that provides little for local people, and does nothing to enhance such a prominent site. It would only compound matters further if St George's were to pursue this feeble vision by continuing with their appeal to the planning inspector."
They
concluded by calling on the whole community to come together to find a
solution.
"Lets all - The Council, St George's and local people - step back,
take a deep breath and use any wit and energy we have to work together
to bring forward a plan that does real justice to the Kew Bridge Site
and which of we can all in future be proud" .
5 April 2005
