Londoners will still be able to enjoy the world famous views of Battersea Power Station if current plans for its redevelopment go ahead – but only if they live north of the river.

An exhibition of the first phase of the redevelopment which went on show on Friday and Saturday made clear that south Londoners will only get to see its chimneys as high flats are to be erected on three sides.

Only from the north bank of the Thames will you still be able to see the building in all its grandeur.

But the architects claim that was always the key view and that anyway the chimneys, not the building, are the crucial visual feature.

Christian Male, the lead architect from Ian Simpson artictects, who designed part of this phase of the development, said: "The real view is the view from the north bank of the Thames, that is the view that is etched in peoples memories.

"It was not designed as an icon, it was a full working power station, it is the chimneys that are iconic."

Outline planning permission was granted in November last year and one of the conditions was that the chimneys must be visible from all directions.

Treasury Holdings and Real Estate Opportunities hope to start construction of phase one next year on 750 homes, a hotel and other units.

This includes flats between the building and the railway line which will obscure the famous view from passing trains.

Brian Barnes, Chairman of the Battersea Power Station Community Group, said: "Many people travelling to Victoria by train take a photo of Battersea Power Station as they pass by. The latest plan will put a stop to that as a huge barrier of flats will obscure this view which is so well liked by commuters and others."

He also revealed as part of the overall planning permission that buildings had to be reduced in size so that the power station's chimneys were able to be seen by all.

Dean Sweetman, who lives in nearby Battersea Park Road said: "I am glad to see that they are getting on with something. With the space around the power station we have been spoilt to have the view coming across the bridge.

"I think it's a shame that you cannot see the building but they have to open it up to the revenue. It's business after all."

For more information about the plans visit www.battersea-powerstation.com To express any views about the proposals either write to Battersea Power Station Community Views, 188 Kirtling Street, London SW8 5BN or email info@battersea-powerstation.com