Greenwich Council Approves Controversial Roof Extension for Luxury Flats
Greenwich Council has given the green light to a contentious proposal to construct eight new luxury flats on top of an existing five-storey residential block, despite vehement opposition from current residents who fear a "potential nightmare" of privacy invasions and construction disruptions. The decision, made by the council's Local Planning Committee on February 19, 2026, involves adding an extra floor to Woodlands Heights on Vanbrugh Hill, with construction expected to last 15 months.
Residents Voice Strong Objections Over Privacy and Quality of Life
Neighbors, particularly those in nearby Lasseter Place, have raised alarm bells about the project's impact on their daily lives. Clive Corlett, representing Lasseter Place residents, argued that the new flats would feature large windows "looking directly into our bedrooms, kitchen, sitting rooms and gardens," compromising their privacy. He criticized the development as being "totally divorced from the real requirements for affordable housing in the borough," emphasizing that it prioritizes luxury penthouses over community needs.
James White, a top-floor resident of Woodlands Heights, echoed these concerns on behalf of over 100 residents in the 42-flat block. He stated that the scheme is not materially different from a previous application refused in 2023, which was deemed over-dominant and detrimental to the area. White highlighted issues such as potential late-night noise from new balconies and the prolonged construction phase, which he said would subject residents to "15 months of scaffolding and hoarding, alongside noise, dust, loss of light, privacy issues and prolonged impact on physical and mental wellbeing."
Council Defends Decision Amid Housing Crisis Pressures
In response to the objections, council officials defended the approval, citing the urgent need to address the housing crisis. Committee chair Gary Dillon acknowledged the pressures on Greenwich Council to provide homes wherever necessary. A council officer noted that the small scale of the scheme falls below the threshold requiring developers to include affordable housing, a point of contention raised by Cllr Mariam Lolavar, who represents the Blackheath Westcombe ward. Lolavar objected to the proposal, stating that it lacks any affordable or family homes and appears to prioritize developer profits over community welfare.
Revised Scheme Aims to Address Previous Concerns
The approved application includes revisions intended to mitigate issues identified in the earlier refused proposal. James Cohen, speaking for the applicant Avon Group, explained that the new design sets back the extension on the southern side by four meters to reduce overbearing effects on Lasseter Place. Additionally, the layout has been redesigned to improve proportions, reduce perceived bulk, and enhance the building's appearance. New conditions were added to strengthen the construction management plan, including measures to prevent portable toilets from causing persistent smells near residents' flats.
During deliberations, Cllr Dave Sullivan praised Cohen's presentation for addressing nearly every concern, while Cllr Pat Greenwell and Cllr Ann-Marie Cousins voted against the proposal, arguing it does not differ sufficiently from the previously rejected scheme. The council's decision reflects a balancing act between development needs and resident welfare, set against the backdrop of London's ongoing housing challenges.
