• IN our part of south Camden we accidentally discovered that we’re now subject to yet another detrimental planning proposal (commercial extension/ new residential development ref: 2018/1325/P) after spotting the planning notice on our lamp post as Camden has ceased writing to residents about planning proposals.

Before consulting any local residents, Camden Council have already stated that this proposal is “in principle” likely to be accepted on grounds of increased “permeability”.

From our examination of the planning documents submitted to date, it is already very clear (and well before any so-called official decision) that the developers concerned have agreed with Camden to given them cash “in lieu of social housing”.

This repeats the situation we experienced with the recent development of Herbal House on Back Hill EC1 several years prior.

At the development committee we then attended to object to the proposal, we were astounded to be told the Camden had already accepted a six-figure “donation” from the developers for social housing. All of the councillors on the development committee then proceeded to vote against our objections.

Only one of our three ward councillors has so far corresponded with us regarding our current protest and only then because not to would mean recusing themselves from prospective decision-making.

It seems Camden residents can now look forward to receiving no support whatsoever from their local councillors against the fiscally-driven influence of the developers.

DR KEVIN P CORBETT
Summers Street Residents’ Committee, Clerkenwell, EC1