Residents' vocal opposition to Putney Place plan

1:22pm Wednesday 8th October 2008

By Jamie Henderson

Residents of Putney overwhelmingly rejected the controversial proposals for Putney Place, the two-towered structure planned for the site opposite East Putney station, at a boisterous public meeting.

More than 200 people turned up to the event organised by the Putney Society at the historic St Mary’s Church, Putney Bridge on Thursday.

Designers from Oracle, who will build the development, were given the opportunity to put their ideas to an audience of local residents at last week’s meeting.

However, concerns over privacy, parking, transport, the environment, self-indulgence by the designers and - in particular - the proposals not being in keeping with the character of the surrounding area dominated the meeting.

Despite residents recognising that the Upper Richmond Road requires regeneration, they did not agree with the proposals put forward by the developers.

Putney Place will feature two towers, 25 and 18-storeys respectively, and will house 300 residential units, yet there are only 32 parking spaces with potential tenants signing a binding agreement not to own a car.

Resident Chris Chapman, of Fawn Park Road - which is situated behind the proposed development - said: “No one is against proposals in general, but the impact on residents has been underplayed. It is clear that everyone will be affected by this with regard to transport, parking and privacy.”

Justine Greening, Putney MP, said: “We need to make sure that these plans really do deliver for residents. The design of any Putney Place redevelopment has to be right, not just for our community today, but for years to come.”

Stuart King, Labour Parliamentary candidate for Putney, said: “I remain unconvinced by the application as it does not have any significant merit. We certainly do not need a Manhattan-style skyline in this residential area.”

He told the developers: “You have failed to justify the development. It was a weak and poor presentation - I think you should come back with a better one or try another architect.”

Reminding the audience that the chairman of the council’s planning committee, Leslie McDonnell, was in the front row, Mr Ewing said: “Do you want your council to approve this application?” In unison, more than 200 people, shouted: “No”.