To the untrained eye, Plush might look like an informal set of businesses – a takeaway, car wash, barber and more operating on the side of the road in an unglamorous part of SE16 – the area where Bermondsey, Rotherhithe and Surrey Quays all meet.
So what could be the problem with a developer coming in and building a new block of flats? In a way, the plight that could have befallen Plush is like a much smaller version of what has happened with the traders in the Elephant and Castle shopping centre in recent years.
To someone just passing through, who may be unconnected to the area, these businesses frankly don’t look like much – certainly not compared to the computer generated graphics created by the expensive architects and consultants hired by the developers, showing how their new buildings will transform the area.
Longstanding small business owner kicked off Rotherhithe site with private block set to be built
But as the reaction of local people shows, Plush, like many of the traders in the Elephant, is an important part of the community. We welcome the council digging its heels in on planning permission and will continue to follow the story in the months to come.