Save our Skyline share your fears, but there are some grounds for hope. Please see the following article in the Evening Standard on-line (there is the same article in yesterday's hard copy):http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-24022172-tory-council-retreats-on-thames-blight-plan-after-boris-steps-in.do"A City Hall source today said the Mayor told council chiefs he would not let the plan go ahead because it breached planning rules, adding: "After intense discussions with Mr Johnson, they agreed to withdraw the application."" And further on, "Mr Johnson told the Standard: "This proposal caused much anger in the community and I am glad that common sense has prevailed. We must protect historic buildings, precious green space and the views of our great city. I am sure the council's decision will be welcomed in Hammersmith and beyond.""So Boris requires any project to (1) protect historic buildings (the Cinema and the Thomas Pocklington Trust mansion blocks) (2) protect Furnivall Gardens and (3) protect the (riverside) views.To do all that means a smaller footprint, less tall buildings and chucking out the ramp in Furnivall Gardens. It begins to look like it could be difficult to deliver to the Council its shopping list of demolishing the Town Hall extension, reinstating the north facade of the old Town Hall and providing replacement offices, all from the sale of a smaller number of flats.....I hope that Boris will make consistent decisions, taking into account that his previous "decision", or actually comments in this case, should set a legal precedent. We hope.
Una Hodgkins ● 4880d