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 Mike and Hisako Weedon say development should be in keeping with the area
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Flats block shrinks, but it will still be too tall, objectors warn
Neighbours fight plans for ‘obtrusive’ development on showroom site
A new campaign is being launched this week against an “obtrusive” development which residents in a Highbury conservation area fear will overshadow their homes, blocking out light.
Plans being developed by government regeneration body English Partnerships and property company First Base would provide 119 flats and shops for up to 300 residents – 35 per cent of them key workers – at the former Mann Overton black taxi showrooms off Holloway Road.
The scheme, which would have a landscaped grass courtyard, has been designed with architectural support from the Prince’s Foundation. The aim is to transform a run-down area of Holloway Road close to Highbury Corner. The development would also be completely car free.
Following local opposition to its scale and density, the proposed development has been reduced by one floor and had nine flats removed from the original planning application submitted to Islington Council in March.
But residents at nearby Highbury Crescent, a leafy conservation area, insist the now-six-storey development would still overlook their homes and ruin views. To make way for the courtyard and buildings, 13 lime and sycamore trees would have to be axed, they point out.
Residents complain that the development’s perimeter wall will be only 15 metres from their windows, three metres less than the council’s guidelines.
Nearby residents include 1980s pop star Sade, who has protested at the “oppressive” nature of the previous designs.
Antiques trader Mike Weedon, who lives at York House in Highbury Crescent, directly facing the back of the proposed scheme, described it as a perfect example of insensitive development.
“We will be overshadowed by this huge, overbearing, six-storey building,” he said. “It will remove our light and sunlight. And our view of lime trees will be replaced by a north-facing brick wall.”
York House, built in 1906, is one of a number of smart Georgian dwellings that line Highbury Crescent.
Mr Weedon, chairman of Camden Passage Traders Association, added: “We’re not against a development on this site. All we ask is that it is in keeping with the area.
“In other words, don’t bring the Holloway Road to Highbury Crescent. Let’s take Highbury Crescent to Holloway Road.
“All they need to do is reduce the height at our end to four storeys – the same as ours – instead of six, so we can all see the light.”
First Base managing director Elliot Lipton said: “As a business, we are committed to building communities. The aim of the proposed scheme is to revitalise what is currently a disused site, creating a catalyst for future regeneration in the area.
“Our plans will provide much-needed affordable and family homes for Islington, but it’s vital the scheme works in the context of the wider community.
“To ensure the best possible solution for this site, we’re very keen to work with all those who live and work in the neighbourhood.” |
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