The Mayor of London has accepted Solum Regeneration’s proposals to redevelop Twickenham station, to the outrage of campaigners opposed to the plans.

As part of the Town and Country Planning Order (2008) the Greater London Authority (GLA) can intervene in certain types of planning applications should it have particular concerns.

But, after consideration of the decision and other representations, the authority announced today that it would not override the local decision.

At a tumultuous planning meeting on Monday, December 19, Richmond Council approved the proposals put forward by Solum, who are a joint partnership between Network Rail and Kier Property.

The improvements to the station will include a new modern entrance and ticket hall, lifts to all platforms, improved public transport interchange facilities, a café, a riverside walk and a new public plaza with flats above.

Residents have fought Solum’s plans, with those opposing the scheme forming the Twickenham Residents Action Group (Trag) to fight the proposals.

Trag chairman John Watson said: “We are obviously very disappointed about this decision.

“Some people partly expected it and we have always said that we would consider eventually, if it was necessary, taking it to a judicial review, but it’s very expensive to go down that route.”

However, the council’s cabinet member for environment and planning Councillor Virginia Morris disagreed with “those wanting to reopen that decision”.

She said: “No one likes development on their doorsteps. We all understand the feelings of those who are closest to the station. I hope the developers will even now consider ways of mitigating the effects of the building work on those who live nearby.

“The council will also be setting up a liaison group, including the developers, local councillors and community representatives to ensure that disruption is minimised.

“The timescales for this development are very tight. The Secretary of State still has the opportunity to intervene but I hope that he will support the principle of localism and agree with the GLA and council decisions.”