Residents are rallying against a proposed 26-storey tower in Gospel Oak, fearing it will harm the community and environment.
Gospel Oak: Recently, about 50 locals gathered for a meeting organized by the Bacton Towers Action group. They were there to discuss plans for new high-rise flats in their neighborhood.
Developer Mount Anvil wants to redevelop the old Bacton Low Rise estate, which is located off Wellesley Road. They’ve submitted a planning application to Camden Council.
Originally, the plan was for 247 homes, but now they’re looking to build 447, including two towers that could reach 26 storeys. That’s a big jump!
Pat Bullivant, a former architect living nearby, didn’t hold back. She called the designs “atrocious” and said they completely ignore the vibe of the area.
Some members of the action group stood in front of the existing Bacton Tower and St Martin’s Church, claiming the new towers would overshadow them.
Pat also pointed out that these plans contradict the community vision adopted in 2022, which aimed to create a more sustainable and healthy environment.
Robert Lewenstein, the action group chair, mentioned that the term “hyper-density” was used to describe the plans. He expressed concern about cramming so many people into a small space.
Residents are worried that their views and natural light will be blocked if these high-rises go up. The environmental impact assessment has given conflicting heights for the towers, which adds to the confusion.
Robert criticized Mount Anvil for not really consulting with the community, saying their presentation didn’t address key concerns about height, density, and social housing.
He described the proposed blocks as “stumpy” and not elegant like the existing Bacton Tower. They would require staircases and lifts for safety, which he believes is a poor design choice.
Pat reiterated that these new towers would be massive and would block light for many residents. She compared them unfavorably to the well-thought-out Bacton block from the 1960s.
To make their voices heard, the group has started a petition that’s already gathered over 800 signatures, hoping to meet with the council.
Brenda Park, a design consultant who moved to the area two years ago, shared her thoughts. She loves the unique architecture and worries that a big monolith won’t improve life in the community.
She emphasized the importance of natural light and green spaces for people’s health and well-being, saying that taking those away would create more problems.
A spokesperson for Camden Council defended the plans, stating that they aim to deliver affordable housing and enhance the local community. They believe the new scheme will almost double the amount of affordable housing compared to previous plans.
They also mentioned their commitment to working with the Gospel Oak community. Mount Anvil has been reached out to for further comments.
