Chiswick Flat Residents Resisting Loss of Cherished Roof Space
Telecoms companies want to use it for masts and satellite dishes
The roof space on Devonhurst Place has been invaluable for residents during lockdown
The residents of Devonhurst Place, a block of flats in the centre of Chiswick, have started a petition after learning their precious roof space is under threat.
EE & Hutchison 3G Ltd want to use the site for steelwork with poles supporting a significant amount of telecoms equipment including masts, satellite dishes and cabinets.
Not only would the structure take away space from the communal area at the top of the building, but the telecoms company would require that third parties be allowed 24 hour access to the site which residents believe raises unwanted security concerns.
Lucy Pearce, who lives in the development said, “The impact on flat residents (there are 50 flats) will mean that the quiet enjoyment of our cherished roof space will be no longer available. This roof space is an area where residents can safely step out of their flat (the majority of flats have no balconies) and get some fresh air, as we have been doing since the premises were converted in the 1980s and we understand that this is part of Chiswick’s Conservation area. This facility has been invaluable with helping with residents’ mental wellbeing during lockdown and possibly future lockdowns.”
The residents have been told by the agency acting for the telecoms companies, Waldon, that the installation has become necessary because equipment that was on top of Gable House on Turnham Green Terrace needed to be replaced. Waldon told them, “this site is being lost from the network for reasons beyond the operator’s control”.
Devonhurst Place from the internal courtyard
As the block is 100% residential the flat dwellers believe it would be more appropriate for the equipment to be sited above a commercial building. There is roof space on the Post Office building which is next door although unconfirmed reports suggest the roof would not be strong enough and there are also persistent rumours that the building may be soon sold for redevelopment. Objectors to the plan say other commercial buildings in the area could provide better options including the former Sanderson wallpaper-printing mill which used to house Foxlow’s restaurant on the ground floor and a number of other buildings along the High Road.
Devonhurst Place as seen from Heathfield Terrace
A petition to Hounslow Council has been set up online which should be signed before Sunday 9 May and residents are hoping that people will lodge objections against the application by email or on the Hounslow Council Planning Portal using reference P/2021/1453. .
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April 30, 2021
