Planning applications

Protecting the Gardens today means scrutiny of planning applications as much as planting plans and development is coming or threatened all round the Gardens.

The biggest current threat is replacement of the human-scale Coram Family buildings on the south side with a long office block, many storeys high.  Camden Council gave planning permission in October 2006 with the proviso that building must start within three years. The Friends have consistently argued that the plans will damage the Gardens and continue to urge the Coram Family to modify the design.

To the east, rebuilding of Kingsway College will begin shortly, with the part of the site nearest to the Gardens being used for flats. As with the Coram development the Friends’ fear is that the new buildings will overpower the Gardens and make them a less enjoyable amenity for local people.

Finally, to the north, the site used by Express Dairies is also awaiting development. The Friends have challenged one inappropriate application and will continue to scrutinise all development proposals around the Gardens.