Local residents and councillors celebrate the rejection of unpopular Hawley Wharf plans at the Town Hall.

Controversial plans for a four storey retail development in the middle of Camden Town were dramatically thrown out by councillors last night.

Local residents were out in force to protest against the proposals, which were also opposed by many local businesses and respected groups including English Heritage and the Design Council.  Speaking on behalf of residents at the planning hearing, I highlighted the four storey mall masquerading as a market, the negative impact on the conservation area along the canal, and the concentration of retail spaces which would have created a tourist trap by day and an empty ghetto at night.

There has also been widespread criticism for the failure to provide affordable housing for local people.

It didn’t have to be this way. Local people, through the Hawley Wharf Working Group, have spent years working with the developer trying to shape and improve the proposals.  The developer has paid the price for ignoring the wishes of our community.

Now we need to move forward together.  We want to see a development that respects the unique heritage of Camden Town; improves the market so it is sustainable in the long term, and offers more affordable housing for local families.  A new school would be welcomed, too – but not as a sweetner to an otherwise disastrous development.

Camden Town is an incredible place – which is why we will continue fighting to secure a decent scheme on this huge and critical site.

For the full story, have a look at this week’s coverage in the Camden New Journal.

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