Ambitious plans have been unveiled to breathe new life into a long-abandoned industrial site in South London, transforming it into a vibrant new neighbourhood with hundreds of homes. The proposal targets the disused gas holders at Motspur Park, a site straddling the boundary between the boroughs of Kingston and Merton.
The site, dominated by three gasholders that fell out of use in 2007 and were formally decommissioned in 2012, is poised for a dramatic change. Developer Berkeley Homes, in partnership with gas supplier SGN, is leading the charge, a move that will finally open this area to the public for the first time in a century.
A Vision for a New Urban Neighbourhood
The development blueprint envisages the construction of five apartment blocks, ranging in height from eight to sixteen storeys. These buildings will be set within a landscape of new public green spaces, with significant enhancements planned for pedestrian and cycling routes.
A central pillar of the project is the commitment to affordable housing. Of the 586 total homes, 174 are designated as affordable, integrating a mix of housing into the local area. A key feature designed to improve local connectivity is a new dedicated pedestrian and cycle corridor, creating a direct link between Motspur Park and Worcester Park.
Planning documents describe the vision as creating "a new urban neighbourhood, set within a regenerative, natural landscape." They emphasise that "the site presents a unique opportunity for a nature-led redevelopment" that combines modern apartment living with a green setting.
Community Concerns and Local Debate
Despite the promised benefits, the proposed scale of the development has sparked significant debate and concern among local residents and community groups.
The Merton Conservatives have launched a community survey to gauge public opinion on contentious issues, particularly the proposed building heights, which could rise up to 18 storeys. Critics argue that this density is more akin to a city-centre development and is inappropriate for a suburban location characterised by lower-rise buildings and limited transport links.
The Raynes Park and West Barnes Residents’ Association has voiced a range of worries, including:
- Increased traffic congestion and strain on local roads.
- Pressure on existing local infrastructure and services.
- Loss of green space and potential adverse effects on local wildlife.
Residents also fear that the sheer scale of the scheme could erode the community's identity and suburban character.
The Path Forward and Planning Considerations
A significant hurdle for the development is the site's current designation as Metropolitan Open Land (MOL), a status intended to protect open spaces from development. However, the planning submissions contend that the land is already developed, given its former life as a gasworks.
Public consultations were held by SGN and Berkeley Homes in late 2024, offering a forum for residents to express their viewpoints. The fate of the project now rests with the local planning authorities. The planning applications are currently under consideration by both Kingston and Merton councils, who must carefully weigh the developmental and environmental benefits against the strong concerns expressed by the local community before reaching a final decision.
