Dear Supporters,

Earlier this week we found out that the Sotherby  Lodge application was refused.

Outcome of the Sotherby Court As you will be aware, the block that sits adjacent to the former London Chest Hospital Site, Sotherby Court or Sotherby Lodge made an application to extend the height of the existing building.  This application has been refused because of the negative impact that it will have on the surrounding Conservation Area. We noted two points for refusal that would apply to Block E. 

In the Case officer’s report dated 8th of July, Section 7,

‘7.21 Policy S.DH1 of the Local Plan seeks to ensure development meets the highest standards of design and layout. Development should positively respond to its context by demonstration appropriate scale, height, mass, bulk and form.

7.22 Local Plan Policies S.DH1 and S.DH3 seek to conserve and enhance heritage assets. Policy S.DH3 states that significant weight will be given to the protection of the borough’s conservation areas. Development should represent good urban design, and ensure that architectural language, design of details and elements complements the immediate surroundings.

7.23 Section 72 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 requires the decision maker to pay special attention to the desirability of preserving or enhancing the character and appearance of the conservation area.’

The construction of Block E on this scheme will have the same, or more impact. We are concerned that it has not been given appropriate weight in your consideration of this development as it seems that there is considerable bias in favour of the applicants.  

We want to be clear with that the community is not saying that Block E should not be built. We are asking that it is reduced in height to minimise the impact. The height will impact the approach to Victoria Park and the Bonner Gate entrance. In addition, the view from the inside of Bonner Gate will be affected by the height of Block E.

Please keep sharing the Petition! 117 signatures to get to a 1000 almost there! 
Thank you for your support!

Parkview TRA