Putney councillors want JC Decaux to reconsider developing site
The 'pocket park' after landscaping
Putney councillors, including the council leader Ravi Govindia, are urging advertising multinational JC Decaux to reconsider its plan to build over a small park close to the Upper Richmond Road.
The company supported the transformation of the ‘pocket park’ near the junction with Charlwood Road in 2019 but now want to develop the site and put up a four storey building with five flats, commercial space and a large digital display board incorporated.
A petition has now been launched by East Putney and Thamesfield councillors against the redevelopment of the space which borders the two wards.
The piece of land opposite Putney Methodist Church was landscaped to provide an open air space for residents. A planting scheme designed by local resident Carolyn Singer aimed to give year round interest with flowers, berries and scent attracting both bees and birds.
It is thought that the buildings on the site were destroyed in June 1944 by a V1 rocket and the vacant plot was often used for fly tipping before it was improved.
The applicant claims that flytipping has continued at the 560sq m site even after the improvements which they provided funding for but this is denied by local residents opposing the plan.
Speaking about the application, Cllr Ravi Govindia said, "This is a much loved little oasis which provides joy to residents and passers-by at the junction of Upper Richmond Road and Charlwood Road. JCDecaux created it and not that long ago asked East Putney councillors to open it. But sadly, they now want to destroy it.”
Cllr John Locker added , “We have spoken to local residents and know how much they value this calm, open space. We will fight to keep this garden open for residents to enjoy. It would be really helpful if residents show their support by signing the petition and registering their comments on the application."
The petition can be signed by clicking this link and comments can be made on the application (ref: 2020/4989) on this link.
Visualisation of the scheme from the applicant's submission
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February 19, 2021