Lewisham Council Delays Decision on Blackheath Car Park Development Amid Celebrity-Led Opposition
A Labour-led council has postponed its verdict on transforming a car park into 45 new homes after facing significant backlash from a coalition of high-profile celebrities and local residents. The controversial proposal, which would see the construction of 20 terraced houses and 25 flats within two multi-storey blocks at Blackheath Station car park, has sparked widespread concern over its potential impact on the area's character and infrastructure.
Celebrity Campaign Gathers Momentum
Prominent figures including actor Jude Law, fellow performer Dominic Cooper, and television actress Sarah Hadland have thrown their weight behind a campaign group opposing the development. The group argues that the plans prioritise developer profits over community needs, with Mr Law describing the proposed flats as a potential 'stain' on what he calls the 'wonderful' South London village. Mr Cooper emphasised that objectors are not 'anti-development' but are instead 'demanding development that is fair, responsible, and puts local people at the heart of decision-making'.
Substantial Local Objections
Lewisham Council has received an overwhelming response to the planning application, with more than 1,200 formal objections submitted. These include concerns from a local primary school, dozens of independent businesses, and numerous residents. Only 30 comments expressed support for the project, with a further 12 remaining neutral. Key worries centre on the dramatic reduction of parking spaces from 162 to just 17, which locals fear will create congestion and 'fighting for spaces'.
Conservation and Community Impact
Opponents highlight that the development would affect the Blackheath Conservation Area, one of London's earliest designated conservation zones. Residents argue that the scale and design of the proposed buildings are out of keeping with the village's historic character. Additionally, there are fears about the impact on the popular Sunday farmers' market, which currently operates from the car park and attracts thousands of visitors weekly.
Council Seeks Further Information
Despite the planning officers recommending approval, Lewisham councillors decided at a recent meeting to defer their decision. They have requested more detailed evidence regarding the development's potential economic impact on Blackheath village and its market. A 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.'
Developer's Perspective
Acorn Property Group, the north London developer behind the scheme, maintains that the project represents a sustainable use of brownfield land. They argue that the development aligns with planning policies promoting new housing and includes social-rented affordable homes. The company also notes that the proposals have formal support from the London Farmers' Market operators, who have managed the Blackheath market for two decades.
Local Voices Amplify Concerns
Sarah Hadland, who has lived in Blackheath for over twenty years, accused the council of hypocrisy, suggesting it enforces strict planning laws on residents while advancing developers' projects. Other notable figures joining the protest include musician Chris Difford of Squeeze and Dire Straits guitarist Mark Knopfler, both expressing deep attachment to the area's character.
The Reject Blackheath Station campaign group welcomed the deferral as a positive step, indicating that councillors are listening to community feedback. A final decision is expected to be made by the Strategic Planning Committee in the autumn, following further assessment of the development's implications for this cherished part of South London.
