Greenwich Flats Approved After Appeal Despite Size Concerns

A new building at 47-53 Woolwich Road faced initial rejection. Councillors didn’t like it at the planning meeting last May. The charity appealed that decision, and a planning inspector then sided with the charity recently.

This allows them to knock down the old buildings there. They can now construct nine flats with shops below. The Estate Charity of William Hatcliffe calls it a “small urban palazzo,” and it’s supposed to be free-standing.

Council officers disagreed last year, thinking it was way too big. They said eleven flats could fit there. Locals weren’t thrilled either, as the plans drew 24 objections before the committee met.

The East Greenwich Residents Association commented on the design. They said it didn’t match the surroundings and looked out of place on Woolwich Road. There is currently a barber and a tool shop at the site.

Andrew Blundy defended the plan, saying he thinks the building fits in well and wants spacious flats, no apologies. Councillor David Gardner also liked it, stating it’s more iconic than the Greenwich Centre.

The inspector granted permission for the building. They said the design has an “acceptable impact” and added it uses the brownfield site well, boosting housing in Greenwich and London.