The decision came after the Royal Borough of Greenwich noted some 26 major deviations from the original plans. That’s why the board gave an unprecedented order to the developers to demolish the entire block. Tenants of 204 apartments are allowed to search for a new home.
It’s no secret that the designs of project developers sometimes deviate from what they will actually look like later. Clear blue skies, children playing on the sidewalk, laughing couples with ice cream in their hands: architectural designs often remind us of a kind of idealized modernism. The fifties-world.
But the developers of the Mast Quay II project went further, according to Greenwich Council. Admittedly, the difference between what was promised and what the building will eventually look like is huge. What was supposed to be a “beautiful, traditionally designed living space” with panoramic views of the River Thames and the British capital, looks more like a series of stacked shipping containers.
The council identified 26 deviations, many of which were said to be related to the appearance of the building. Originally, there was supposed to be a “glass curtain wall” around the building, which was supposed to give the impression of a sail. But it is nowhere to be seen. Also, the balconies and windows are very small and there are no roof gardens or play areas for children. Promised underground parking has become above ground, meaning there is no longer any parking space available.
There was also an issue with facilities, including facilities for persons with disabilities. The apartments will not be adequately accessible for wheelchair users, despite a promise in the original plan.
This gave Greenwich enough reasons to bring out the bulldozer – which isn’t even the proverbial one – in this case. The council stated that “the only reasonable way to repair the damage is complete demolition and restoration of the land to its original condition.”
Aidan Smith, cabinet member for urban regeneration, described the building as a “blight to the landscape”. If a new building application were made for something consistent with what currently exists, it would also be rejected, Smith is certain.
said Comer Homes Group, the developer of the project UK Metro To be “surprised and extremely disappointed” by the Royal Borough of Greenwich’s decision. The developer now has 28 days to appeal the decision.
