Author: Cyril Richert
The Planning Applications Committee meeting was hold on Wednesday 20 May at the Town Hall. As confirmed by Councillor Leslie McDonnell, chairman, the application for Clapham Junction station redevelopment was withdrawn by the applicants (Metro Shopping Fund) on Monday (follow the link to read our comment).
The small space reserved for public in room 122/123 (about 30 seats) was crowded with more than 40 people, some people seating on the floor or standing near the door. Additionally, two rows of seats were also disposed in front, directly in the main room. That was not enough, and people kept coming crossing others leaving. [1]
The meeting started at 7.30pm. After agreeing on the Minutes of the previous meeting, Cllr McDonnell said that on Monday at about 3.30pm the applicants withdrew their application for Clapham Junction station, and therefore this item would not be debated. However Cllr Belton made a short statement highlighting that more than 600 residents objected (actually more than 800 objections) and he wishes that such application does not set a precedent. Cllr McDonnell replied that there is no relation between Planning Officer and Councillors.
And then…. That’s it.
For the next 1 1/2 hour it went on with the other applications. The discussion was extensive on Trade Tower Plantation Wharf which was criticised for scale and proportion issues within the vicinity which led eventually to refusal (it is encouraging that several councillors made the points).
Finished at 9.15pm…. I cannot imagine what time it would have finished should you have had the full agenda.
[1] An email was sent to everyone on our mailing list, in addition to the topic posted on the website, stating that the item was withdrawn from the agenda. Apparently more than 60 people decided it was still worth showing their concern!