Plans to transform David Bowie's childhood home into a visitor attraction have hit a setback after a planning application was withdrawn. The Heritage of London Trust (HOLT) said the project in Bromley remains very much alive, blaming the withdrawal on "minor administrative issues".
Project to restore Plaistow Grove house
The charity wants to restore the terraced house in Plaistow Grove to how it appeared when Bowie lived there between 1955 and 1967, giving fans a glimpse into the star's formative years. The plans would allow visitors to step inside rooms associated with the music legend's childhood, including a recreation of his bedroom.
Supporters have hailed the proposal as a unique tribute to one of Britain's most influential cultural figures, though some neighbours fear a major tourist attraction would overwhelm the quiet residential street.
Residents raise concerns
A HOLT spokesman said: "Due to some minor administrative issues we have withdrawn the planning application and will be resubmitting it soon. The Bowie's House project is very exciting and the cultural relevance of the place Bowie grew up in is so powerful."
Although the proposal has been welcomed by many Bowie fans across London and the rest of the country, those living in Plaistow Grove have criticised the 20,000-visitors-a-year attraction for being too excessive for the quiet residential street.
The Plaistow Grove Residents Association (PGRA) raised concerns about parking, an entrance currently taken up by a pub's bins, 45-people late night events and the three-metre tall visitor centre in a small suburban garden. They feel as these have fallen on deaf ears.
PGRA chair calls for dialogue
PGRA chair Julie Davis said: "In January 2026, residents of our quiet street were taken by surprise when the Heritage of London Trust announced their plans for the house to the world, without consultation. Since then, they have disregarded opportunities to engage in meaningful dialogue with residents and those in the community for whom this project would have the greatest impact. On October 22, we were left confused again by their decision to withdraw their planning application without notice, feedback, or answers to the many serious concerns and questions that our members have raised. It is our hope that the Heritage of London Trust will take our concerns seriously in any subsequent application they submit."
Despite what residents of Plaistow Grove have said, HOLT said back in August that it had been in "regular contact" with local residents regarding its plans. The trust carried out four events, the first being on January 20 after the public announcement, where they presented their plans and gave people the chance to provide feedback.
The trust also said that as the proposals had evolved it had "wherever possible, sought to take on board feedback from all those who participated, including No. 4 Plaistow Grove's immediate neighbours".
