Concerns have been raised about a general lack of public involvement and consultation on the called-in planning application at the former Stag Brewery in Mortlake.
The London Assembly has today called on the Mayor to delay the public hearing for the planning application.
Nicholas Rogers AM, who proposed the motion said:
"Residents need to be given time to have their say on plans to redevelop the Mortlake Brewery site. The current proposals would nearly double the local population and change the ancient Thames riverscape forever. With far-reaching and long-lasting effects like these, it's essential residents' views are heard.
Nobody understands a local community and its potential more than the residents themselves. By listening to residents and taking on board their ideas and concerns, we can build something truly remarkable at Mortlake. However, there isn't time to have those meaningful discussions between now and the end of July. That's why I'm pleased the London Assembly has backed my call for the Mayor to delay the public hearing to allow residents to have their say.”
Caroline Russell AM, who seconded the motion said:
"The Stag Brewery in Mortlake is a prime example of lack of community involvement. Top-down decisions on development across London are ignoring invaluable local insight and knowledge that could make schemes better.
The fact that following call-in from the Mayor, a larger, denser and taller scheme came forward shows the impact of these failings. It is time he recognises these fundamental flaws and uses the Stag Brewery as a test case for real resident engagement."
The full text of the motion is:
“The Assembly notes with concern that the public hearing for the called-in planning application at the Former Stag Brewery in Mortlake has currently been scheduled for 27th July.
The Assembly further notes that whilst significant changes have been made to the application since it was called-in by the Mayor, following discussions between the GLA and the developer, local community groups have not been afforded the same opportunity to put forward their proposed changes and improvements to the scheme.
In addition, concerns have been raised regarding the quality of reports, availability of documents, and a general lack of public involvement and consultation. Officers have only very recently met face to face with the local community on June 22nd.
The Assembly does not consider that one meeting so close to the date of the public hearing is sufficient to fully explore and investigate all the issues that were raised.
The Assembly therefore strongly requests that the Mayor delays the public hearing for this application, and instead arranges for a meaningful discussion between resident groups, the GLA, Richmond Council and developers, so that the residents’ proposed amendments can be properly and formally considered.”