Last Updated on 31 May 2023
We have already commented (5 November) on proposals for two tower blocks in Colliers Wood adjoining the existing Britannia Tower (known to many as the old Brown & Root Building). The actual planning application has now been filed and we had sent our objections to Merton Council.
We believe that towers of 16 storeys and 26 storeys are far too high and are not justified by the Council’s own policies.
The site adjoins the river Wandle and the Environment Agency classes it as having a “high probability” of flooding. Should a flood occur and the sewers become overloaded, there is the danger of untreated waste flowing back into the lower floors unless measures to prevent this are built into the design.
The site is also in an area of archaeological importance as the old Roman road, Stane Street, ran alongside it. The Northern Line runs under Colliers Wood High St. These both present problems and opportunities.
Any new buildings on this site should be at least energy neutral from the start, should not include “single aspect” housing units and should include the proper level of affordable housing. Such an important site in the centre of Colliers Wood could also provide an opportunity for well-design public spaces.
You can read our letter to the Council here
