The approval of eight new council flats on the Kingston Estate, Walworth, saw emotional outbursts from residents and one council member receiving a round of applause, at a planning meeting on Tuesday that saw a total of 52 homes being approved across the borough.
The planning was given approval, but the decision was not unanimous – there were four votes in favour, with two against.
Residents argued passionately against the proposal, with key points raised being the loss of green space for children and questions about the validity of the consultation process.
The meeting saw several interruptions, including one resident crying out, “there is no space!” Other residents argued that there had been little consultation, despite claims from the developer that they had sent several newsletters.
When the development manager stated that a project officer would be working with residents to hear out their concerns, Lib Dem councillor for Borough and Bankside Adele Morris received a round of applause from residents when she questioned why said officer would be getting in touch only after the approval meeting had taken place. Cllr Morris was later among the two councillors who objected to the proposal.
The development manager clarified that they had already tried knocking on doors, adding: “if residents don’t want to talk to us, we can’t force them.” She also cited COVID-19 as a reason for difficulty in reaching residents.
The developers additionally agreed to pay a £10,250 shortfall payment for the loss of green space, if the development is found to meet the relevant criteria.