An historic part of the borough could be changed forever if a controversial plan for a three and four storey block of 22 flats is approved for a Conservation area next week.
The Cricket Green area of Mitcham has a number of planning applications looming over it this year.
Tony Burton and Sandra Vogel, centre, with neighbours of the site
The first of which is for the derelict former Kwik Fit site in London Road opposite the Burn Bullock pub, which has been recommended for approval by Merton Council.
But the Mitcham Cricket Green Community and Heritage (MCGCH) group is opposing it based on concerns over the effect on the Conservation area, its design, parking provision, dislike of the 'jagged roof design', and the impact of this and other developments planned for the small area.
An artists' impression of the Cricketers pub site, on the left, which has not yet been submitted to the planning committee
A planning application is soon to be officially submitted for 11 flats at the nearby Cricketers pub - the fifth attempt by developers to file a suitable plan.
April 2015: Historic pub could be demolished to make way for flats in conservation area
The former Mitcham fire station is expected to go on the market shortly, after a new multi-million pound station was opened last June, and re-development work may have started at the Burn Bullock pub after scaffolding was spotted on the outside recently.
The area is within the Mitcham Cricket Green Conservation Area and is an Archaeological Priority Zone.
May 2013: Historic Mitcham Cricketers pub spared demolition as developers unveil new flats plan
In relation to the Kwik Fit site, if approved, what's left of it would be demolished and a three and four storey block of 22 flats with retail and commercial space below and car parking would be built.
Tony Burton, MCGCH trustee, said: "The old Kwik Fit site needs re-development but not at the expense of the Conservation Area and the quality of life of people living in Broadway Gardens and Highfield Court.
"This massive block of flats will overwhelm the area and damage the setting of Mitcham's historic cricket ground.
"We urge councillors to reject the plans and have volunteered to work with the developers on an alternative scheme."
A total of five applications for a variety of housing and commercial spaces have previously been refused for the Kwik Fit site, although the final application was allowed on appeal.
Eight letters of objection were lodged by members of the public, citing inadequate parking, the number of flats proposed and concerns about what it looks like.
What do you think?
Comment below or email letters@wimbledonguardian.co.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel