11:01am Tuesday 26th August 2003
By Adrian Kwintner
Residents are vowing to fight plans for a £50 million estate with a “monstrous” tower block.
Bellway Homes proposes to redevelop the 2.7 hectare New Haddo Estate, between Greenwich railway station and Deptford Creek, to create 500 homes.
Proposals include the demolition of a 1960s housing estate with 203 homes and the construction of houses, maisonettes and flats together with a new community centre and shops.
But residents living along Straightsmouth say the new estate will invade their privacy and the community centre will be on the same site as an old community centre which was unused as it was too far away from young families with children.
One resident, Suzanne Meredith, said: “The tower block will look straight over our houses and block out our light. It’s so out of character with all the other streets around. We’re all modern terraces and then there’s this big skyscraper.” Another resident, Lara Maiklem, said: “Everybody thinks the plans are totally appalling. This is a conservation area. We’re not even allowed to put satellite dishes up but they’re putting up a massive tower. It’s an absolute monstrosity.” She added: “Sticking the new community centre underneath the tower block will not serve the people who need it. People living near it are in private homes or elderly people who have lived here all their lives. They won’t use it.” The scheme aims to provide new public, shared and private open spaces including a 1,600sq.m pocket park at the heart of the development.
There will also be a balance between private and social housing with 250 homes for sale and 250 homes for affordable rent and shared ownership.
A Greenwich Council spokesman said: “This proposed development is the latest in a number of high-profile projects which are currently transforming the local area.” A public consultation on the plans will continue through to September. A report will then be considered by the council’s planning committee.
Bellway Homes refused to comment on their application and the residents' concerns.
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