Southwark councillors unanimously reject Berkeley Homes' revised London development plans
The planning committee refused the proposal after the developer sought to reduce the affordable housing commitment from 40 per cent to 12 per cent.
Members of the Southwark Council planning committee have unanimously voted to reject revised plans for the Bermondsey Place development on London's Old Kent Road, according to the Times of India. The 6-0 decision came after housebuilder Berkeley Homes proposed reducing the affordable housing portion of the later phases from 40 per cent to 12 per cent.
The revised proposal for the second and third phases of the project included 1,060 homes, of which only 81 would be affordable. While the first phase of the development is currently under construction with a 40 per cent affordable housing commitment, the developer argued that rising construction costs and economic changes made the original target too expensive.
Berkeley Homes Managing Director Justin Tibaldi expressed disappointment that the committee overruled the recommendations of its own planning officers. Tibaldi stated that the council's charges, including £30 million through the Community Infrastructure Levy and Section 106 requirements, reduce the funds available for affordable housing.
Southwark Council Deputy Leader Victor Chamberlain said it is vital that new developments provide what local communities need, specifically affordable housing. Chamberlain noted that the applications sought to do the opposite and said he would write to the Mayor of London to ensure the council's decision is respected.
The rejection leaves the future of the remaining 1,060 homes uncertain. Berkeley Homes is currently considering its next steps, which may include appealing to the Planning Inspectorate or submitting new plans.