Post Office Demolition Gets Green Light Despite Controversy
Bexley Council has given the final approval for a contentious plan to demolish a locally listed Post Office in Erith, replacing it with a 33-flat development. The council's own property developer, BexleyCo, put forward the proposal, which was passed at a Planning Committee meeting on November 13. In a surprising financial twist, the local authority anticipates losing approximately £113,000 on the project.
Development Details and Heated Opposition
The existing Erith Post Office, constructed in 1933, will be torn down to make way for a part three, part six-storey building. The new block will contain a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments. While the distinctive brick façade of the old Post Office will be preserved and integrated into the design, the demolition of the structure itself has sparked significant debate.
The plans also include space for two commercial units on the ground floor. However, a major point of contention is the complete absence of affordable housing. The council has stated that including any such units would not be financially viable due to the project already operating at a deficit.
Local councillors voiced strong objections during the planning meeting. Erith ward councillor Chris Ball, while admitting the site needed development, criticised the "uninspiring" design and the lack of parking. He proposed replacing the commercial units with more housing to potentially improve financial returns and allow for affordable homes.
Councillor Nicola Taylor expressed deeper concerns, suggesting the development was a way for the council to "prop up its budget rather than listening to residents." She questioned the use of taxpayer money for a loss-making project and stated she "expected better" from BexleyCo.
Arguments For and The Final Decision
In support of the application, Jacqueline Batrouney from Nexus Planning, acting for BexleyCo, argued the new building would create an "attractive gateway" to Erith town centre. She defended the lack of car parking spaces as a way to promote active travel and public transport use.
Regarding the critical issue of affordable housing, Batrouney explained that viability constraints made it unachievable. However, she noted that mechanisms are in place to secure affordable housing contributions in the future should the project's financial situation improve.
Despite the opposition, Councillor Cameron Smith pointed out the notably low number of only eight official objections to the proposal as a sign that there was not widespread public concern. He argued that blocking the development over the lack of affordable housing or parking would be counterproductive given London's severe housing shortage.
With the committee's approval, the Erith Post Office's demolition is now set to proceed, marking a significant change for the local area and leaving a complex legacy of financial loss and unmet housing needs.
