Greenwich Council Approves Controversial 1,500-Home Development with Unique Octagonal Towers
Greenwich Council has given the green light to a major housing development that will bring 1,500 new homes to the Greenwich Peninsula, despite significant concerns about reduced affordable housing and the height of the proposed towers. The Morden Wharf project, expected to be completed by 2032, will feature several tower blocks with a distinctive octagonal design that architects claim is "unlike anything else in London."
Affordable Housing Reduction Sparks Council Discontent
The Planning Board approved the revised plans despite expressing discomfort with the reduction in affordable housing from the originally proposed 35 percent to just 20 percent. Developer Galliard Homes explained that increased construction costs and changing building regulations necessitated this reduction. Chairman Dave Sullivan acknowledged that none of the board members were "comfortable" with the new plans, particularly lamenting the loss of affordable housing.
The project will now proceed with 20 percent affordable housing thanks to Greater London Authority grant funding, which became available under new housing measures. These measures also mean Morden Wharf will not have to undergo mid or late stage reviews that typically assess whether developers should provide additional affordable housing based on updated sales and cost data.
Iconic Octagonal Design Receives Mixed Reactions
Architect Jo Cowen presented the unique octagonal tower design at the planning meeting, emphasizing that the shape helps manage wind patterns and creates larger gaps between buildings to allow more natural light. "You won't see buildings like this in London," Cowen stated. "They are first generation in terms of what's coming forward, in terms of the form."
While some councillors appreciated the distinctive design, others remained concerned about the height of the towers. The tallest block will reach 35 storeys, which Councillor Pat Greenwell described as "unbelievable." However, Greenwell acknowledged the architectural merit, saying, "I do like the idea of the octagonal buildings." Councillor David Gardner echoed this sentiment, noting that if there must be tall buildings, "it should be iconic and it should really stand out."
Revised Plans Address Heritage Concerns
The approved plans include modifications to reduce the development's impact on Greenwich's UNESCO World Heritage Site. Changes include reducing the number of tower blocks and shortening the tallest tower from its original proposed height. Despite these adjustments, the 35-storey tower remains a point of contention for some local representatives.
The Planning Board ultimately approved the development because it addresses the borough's pressing housing needs. The Morden Wharf project will be located at the southwestern side of the Greenwich Peninsula and represents one of the largest residential developments currently planned for the area.
This approval comes after the Planning Board initially deferred its decision in February, requesting more concrete plans to increase affordable housing following new GLA measures. The developer's return with confirmation of GLA grant funding secured the necessary support for the project to move forward.
