Council Postpones Decision on Controversial Blackheath Housing Development
Lewisham Council has deferred a crucial decision on a highly contentious proposal to construct 45 new homes at Blackheath station car park in south London. The plans have sparked significant public interest and opposition, notably from a group of prominent celebrities including actors Jude Law and Dominic Cooper.
Celebrity-Led Campaign Against the Development
In an open letter addressed to the council, campaigners including Jude Law and Dominic Cooper have voiced strong objections to the proposed development by Acorn Property Group. The celebrities argue that the design of the buildings is "overbearing and unsympathetic" and would "destroy rather than improve" the unique character of the historic Blackheath neighbourhood.
Other notable signatories to the letter include broadcaster Jools Holland, musician Manfred Mann, and actress Sarah Hadland, best known for her role in Miranda. The collective opposition highlights deep concerns about preserving the area's aesthetic and community integrity.
Details of the Proposed Development
According to council documents, the Acorn Property Group's plans involve constructing 25 flats across a four-storey and a five-storey block, alongside a terrace of 20 three-storey townhouses. The development would be situated on the existing Blackheath station car park site, which currently hosts a popular farmers' market every Sunday.
Campaigners warn that the project could lead to a "dramatic loss of parking" and jeopardise the future of the farmers' market, potentially threatening the viability of independent shops in the village. Their open letter starkly predicts that Blackheath could become a "ghost village" if the plans proceed.
Council Committee Seeks Further Information
During a meeting on Tuesday evening, Lewisham Council's planning committee decided to defer the decision on the application. Councillors requested additional information on several key issues before reaching a final verdict.
The committee has asked for more detailed evidence regarding:
- Parking arrangements and capacity
- The potential impact on commercial activity in Blackheath
- Access arrangements, including provisions for emergency services
Councillor James Rathbone described the application as "extremely controversial" and noted it had generated "a huge level of public interest". He remarked that this proposal had attracted more press attention than any other matter during his nearly eight years on the council.
Planning Officer's Recommendation and Council's Position
Despite the widespread opposition, a council planning officer has recommended that the local authority approve the plans as proposed by Acorn Property Group, subject to 43 specific conditions. This recommendation adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate.
A Lewisham Council spokesperson stated: "The planning committee deferred the Blackheath Station car park application because members were not satisfied they had the information needed to make a fully informed decision. In particular, councillors were clear they needed stronger and more detailed evidence about the potential impact of the proposals on Blackheath's economy."
The spokesperson emphasised that deferring the application ensures residents' concerns can be properly considered and that any decision is taken with a full understanding of the likely effects on local businesses and the wider area. "Our priority is securing the best possible outcome for Blackheath," they added.
Next Steps and Future Considerations
The planning committee's next meeting is scheduled for February 12 at 7pm, where the deferred application will be reconsidered. This additional time will allow for the collection and analysis of the requested information, providing a more comprehensive basis for the final decision.
The deferral represents a significant moment in local planning processes, demonstrating how high-profile opposition and community concerns can influence procedural timelines. The outcome will be closely watched by residents, businesses, and observers interested in the balance between development needs and heritage preservation in London's historic neighbourhoods.
