Mick Jagger, Eric Clapton, and other celebrities have successfully opposed plans for a 29-storey tower on the River Thames in Battersea. The planning inspector upheld Wandsworth Council's rejection of the development, describing the proposed building as 'not exemplary, extraordinary, remarkable or distinctive, just tall'.
The 100-metre tower, proposed by Rockwell Property, would have stood next to Battersea Bridge, rivaling the heights of Battersea power station's chimneys. Jagger, who has lived in the area since the 1960s, called the plan 'totally wrong on every level'. Actor Felicity Kendal warned it would lead to a 'free-for-all' for developers along the river.
Rockwell initially proposed 142 flats, later reduced to 110 including 54 affordable homes. The developer argued it addressed London's urgent housing need. However, the council rejected the plans due to 'excessive height and scale', stating it would harm the skyline and 'devastate' neighbours' lives. The Greater London Authority backed the decision.
After an eight-day public hearing, planning inspector Joanna Gilbert ruled the tower would have 'adverse effects on the character and appearance of the local area' and be 'overbearing'. She noted it would cause a 'dramatic change to the skyline' and appear 'alien and isolated'. Rockwell expressed disappointment, saying they believed it would be a 'great addition to London's skyline'.
