Six storey building will reduce access to the river

There has been an angry reaction to plans by Barratt Homes for the redevelopment of derelict offices into flats. The scheme will restrict views to the river and reduce access to the towpath.

There are also fears that the presence of the flats would stymie the redevelopment of the nearby boatyard due to possible objections from residents.

The planned development is located on the southern side of the High Street, opposite Albany Parade, between the Watermans and The Premier Lodge. It contains three buildings, one fronting the High Street and two side-by-side to the rear fronting the River Thames. The frontage building is a three storey flat roofed former office block. The buildings to the rear, both three-storey in height, were previously used for light industrial purposes. All three buildings have been vacant for many years.

The planning application is for the demolition of existing buildings and erection of two six-storey buildings comprising 69 flats, 189sq.m commercial floorspace and 56 basement level parking spaces.

The plans went before the Isleworth and Brentford area planning committee on 9th August although members were only allowed to comment on the plans. Members supported the redevelopment of the site with a high quality scheme but wished to highlight the inadequacy of the current submission. They raised a range of concerns including about the density of the scheme, parking and environmental issues.

The final decision will be made by the Sustainable development committee on the basis of recommendations from planning officers.

September 13, 2007