A developer has responded to claims that two towers it plans to build by Loughborough Junction station are “totally inappropriate” for the area.  

Metaphorm Architects’ planning application had 351 objections at the time of writing, with 20 comments of support.   

The proposed towers at the Wellfit Street and Hardess Yard – one 20 storeys and the other 29 – would be made up of office space and 170 flats, 35 per cent of which would be affordable.   

But many locals are opposed to the build, specifically to the height and extra pressure on local infrastructure the new development could bring.   

One said: “[I] understand that new homes are needed but the size of this development is not sympathetic to the surrounding area and the infrastructure to support this development is simple not there.   

“It will put an impossible strain on the local neighbourhood through schools, health, transport and other infrastructure – let alone the eyesore a development of this size will create.   

“It does not take into account the impact this will have on the existing community.”  

Helen Hayes, MP for Dulwich and West Norwood, also objected to the development. 

She said: “My constituents on the whole acknowledge the need for new homes in our area, but they are extremely concerned about the height and extent of this application.   

“They are concerned that local infrastructure and services will not be able to support the level of housing proposed.   

“They are particularly concerned about the increased demand on local bus services and train services from Loughborough Junction, which are already overcrowded at peak times.” 

The Loughborough Action Group and the Herne Hill Society have both objected to the height of the towers.   

Those in support said there was a need for housing.   

A spokesperson for the developer said 111 people went to the two separate public drop-in sessions it held.  

“Overall, most attendees viewed the proposals as a positive development to the Loughborough Junction area and these views have been reflected in the feedback provided.  

“For example, when asked ‘do you support the principle of redevelopment of Wellfit Street and Hardess Yard’, 64 per cent of correspondents who attended the first drop-in session stated that they either ‘strongly support’ or ‘support’ this principle.  

“Additionally, when asked ‘do you support the principle of creative industrial space and new housing on the site’, 71 per cent of respondents who attended the second drop-in session stated that they either ‘strongly support’ or ‘support’ this principle,” he said.  

Metaphorm “listened carefully” to residents’ views, according the spokesperson, and “where possible, addressed the comments raised by the local community”.   

He added: “We feel that the principle of height can be supported in this location, with the potential to create a landmark centre piece and creative hub for the area, particularly when arriving from Loughborough train station.  

“The height of the development will work to complement the consented Higgs Industrial Estate proposal as well as other existing and emerging developments.  

“Additionally, the ground and two mezzanine levels will be occupied by small workshops / makers hub for creative industries.  

“The space is intended to enable small scale manufacturing businesses to share workspace which would be affordable and flexible.  

“As such the height of the development coupled with the residential provision will work to support the provision of a unique and innovative makers space in the Loughborough Junction area.” 

He said the developer conducted a “comprehensive assessment” of the development’s impact on transport in the area “and conclude that the development will have minimal impact”.  

“Between the weekday hours of 8am and 9am, the report demonstrates that there will be an additional 20 users of the railway station.  

“The development will also open access through the arches to support cycle and pedestrian movements.” 

He added that the scheme is car-free and that the developer had met with the Chair of the London Transport Committee and made representations to senior executives at Govia Thameslink Railway.