Blackheath homes plan risks market, say campaigners
Opponents argue new development near station will harm popular farmers' market, while developers say it secures its future.
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Plans to redevelop a car park adjacent to Blackheath Station into housing and a public square have met with objections from local groups concerned about the impact on the area's weekly farmers' market. The proposal by Acorn Property Group includes 45 new homes and a public square designed to accommodate 40 market stalls. This would significantly reduce the existing car park from 162 spaces to 17.
Concerns over market's future
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The Blackheath Society, a residents' group, opposes the specific scheme, describing it as an "overdevelopment" that does not consider the impact on the community. John Barron, of The Blackheath Society, stated that the plans would be "detrimental" to traders and the community, potentially undermining the market's future vitality. Keith Bennett of Chiltern Farm Foods, a stallholder for 25 years, warned that the development could be "the death knell of this market" if it leads to its disappearance.
Mr Barron also raised concerns that the proposed homes would overlook a primary school's playground. The Blackheath Society is not objecting to development on the car park site itself, but to the current proposal's scale and its perceived negative consequences for local amenities.
Developer's response
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Acorn Property Group maintains that its proposals have been developed over four years of engagement with the local community, planning officers, and stakeholders. The group stated that the plans have been reviewed and supported by Lewisham's independent Design Review Panel. Furthermore, Acorn Property Group said the scheme is formally supported by London Farmers' Markets, which has operated Blackheath Farmers' Market for 27 years and manages 19 other markets across London. The developers assert that the proposals will secure the market's future and enhance its facilities.
Questions this report answers
+What is being proposed for the Blackheath Station car park?
Acorn Property Group proposes to build 45 new homes and a public square on the car park site. The public square is intended to accommodate 40 market stalls. This development would reduce the number of parking spaces from 162 to 17.
+Why are some people opposing the development plans?
Opponents, including The Blackheath Society and market traders, fear the development will harm the weekly farmers' market. They describe the scheme as an overdevelopment that could undermine the market's future vitality and have a knock-on effect on traders.
+What is the developer's response to the concerns?
Acorn Property Group states the plans have been supported by Lewisham's independent Design Review Panel and London Farmers' Markets. They claim the proposals are the result of extensive community engagement and will secure the market's future while improving facilities.
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