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The Holiday Inn Project: Can We Scale It Down?
Archive  |  Tue - December 11, 2018 8:21
The current structure will not be missed, but let's not replace it with something even bigger.
The current structure will not be missed, but let's not replace it with something even bigger.
ONA joined a number of other residents’ associations and hundreds of individuals in opposing the planning application to replace the current Holiday Inn building on the Cromwell Road with a much larger structure that includes two very high towers.  Fortunately, the Council listened to our objections and on 27 September, the Planning Committee unanimously refused the application. So far, so good.  Unfortunately, on 5 November, the Mayor of London subsequently ‘called in’ the application under the London Plan, which  makes specific provisions relating to the location and design of tall buildings. Ultimately, he has the power to override the objections of local residents and the RBKC Council.  It should be noted that the plan provides for 749 hotel rooms, 340 serviced apartments, 46 units for sale, of which 20 are classified as ‘affordable.’ Apart from putting a strain on existing infrastructure, adding to road congestion and air pollution and overshadowing nearby homes, this development would hardly help alleviate the need for affordable housing.  We hope the Mayor takes these issues into consideration.
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