In July 2025, Hackney's previous Labour administration approved a six-storey, 72-unit block to replace the four-storey, 31-unit Benabo Court on Ferncliff Road, E8 — more than doubling the building's size.
That Labour administration is no longer in power.

What went wrong

• Neighbours weren't told. The developer claims 558 leaflets were sent. None reached the directly affected residents on Amhurst Road. A public meeting drew just 6 people. The first residents heard was a council letter with 18 days to respond.
• The children's contact centre was ignored. The Ferncliff Contact Centre — used by foster children and families, 4 metres from the proposed block — was not consulted because the planning officer categorised it as a commercial unit.
• The developer was downgraded to G3 “serious regulatory concerns” 7 days before the vote. Over 1/3 of its stock missing a valid electrical safety certificate. This was not disclosed to the committee.
• Officers shaped the scheme, then recommended it. The developer's own Planning Statement reveals officers pushed for a larger building — then recommended approval without telling the committee.
• Homes will lose significant daylight. The developer's own figures: 24% reduction to one room at 151 Amhurst Road.

What we're asking for:
We support social housing for older residents. We oppose this version: too tall, too close, approved without proper process.
We're asking Mayor Garbett and Hackney's new Green-led council to revisit this scheme before irreversible demolition begins.

Demolition is the point of no return and is starting any day now. 
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