Concern Over Delayed Decision On Chiswick Curve

The Chiswick Curve from Strand on the Green

The verdict from the Secretary of State following the Public Inquiry into the 32-storey Chiswick Curve is now over a week late, causing concern to local groups which gave evidence to the inquiry last July.

The Planning Inspectorate had stated the decision would be before or on 11 March, but the website now merely states that it is 'delayed' with no reason given.

The Public Inquiry lasted four weeks, with evidence, cross-examination and summing up giving the positions of Hounslow Council, Historic England, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, the Kew Society, the West Chiswick & Gunnersbury Society and the appellant, Starbones.

The Inspector conducting the Inquiry, Paul Griffiths BSc(Hons) BArch IHBC was to report back to the Secretary of State who makes the final decision on the matter.

Chair of the WCGS, Marie Rabouhans commented, "The reason for the delay in the Secretary of State publishing the decision is not known. His office has not provided a revised date but has simply indicated that they will endeavour to minimise the delay as much as possible.

"Having expected the decision to be published on Monday, 11th March in accordance with the Appeal timetable, it is beyond disappointing for all those of us who have challenged this development to be left in limbo without a decision or even a date by when one will be published."

All the submissions from the relevant parties can be read here.

During the inquiry, counsel for Hounslow Council (who oppose the development) said that if the appeal (by Starbones, against refusal of planning permission) was allowed it would "drive a coach and horses" through the schemes envisaged by the Council in the area.

The West Chiswick & Gunnersbury Society, said on behalf of local residents that if the the development went ahead, it would 'seriously diminish' the quality of life enjoyed in Chiswick and Kew.

Submissions were heard during the Inquiry from other Chiswick groups including Strand on the Green Residents Association, Cllr Joanna Biddolph, resident Ruth Mayorcas, and James Wisdom on behalf of the Friends of Gunnersbury Park. You can read our coverage here.

A view from the A4 of rejected scheme

Historic England, The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, and the Kew Society also spoke against the development. Much of the submissions centred around the 'harm' caused to heritage assets by the height and density of the proposed development. Starbones in its opening submission, claimed that it would be a public benefit and this would outweigh any 'harm'.

There are two parts to the appeal, the first is against the planning refusal, and the second is against refusal for the advertising. These will be decided separately by the Secretary of State.

March 15, 2019