I write again with great news that yet another proposal to replace an existing family home in Purley and Woodcote with a block of flats was refused planning permission last week.
The proposal, at 13A Russell Hill, Purley, CR8 2JB, sought to construct a part-two and part-three storey building containing eight flats on the site on a single existing property. The proposal also included plans for parking, cycle storage, bin and recycling storage and landscaping. It is excellent that Planning Officers used delegated powers to refuse permission to this scheme, after finding that it contradicted multiple planning policies.
It is fantastic that planning decisions – made by the Planning Committee or officers – consider well-reasoned objections. I strongly objected to this proposal because it represented a significant overdevelopment due to its design, bulk and raised forecourt, meaning that it would not have respected the character of the road. It was also clear to me that the density of the proposed development would have resulted in poor quality living accommodation for future occupiers, whilst there would have been significantly more parking stress on the local roads.
Of course, we need more homes, but they should be in appropriate places. Family homes in green suburbs should not be destroyed and replaced by flats, which are better suited in Croydon Town Centre and closer to Central London. I will continue to fight to protect the character of our neighbourhood – and I am so pleased that after many years of being ignored our views are finally being heard.
