Residents relieved at rejection of pub plans (From Streatham Guardian)

Residents relieved at rejection of pub plans

4:36pm Wednesday 12th September 2012 in News By Alice Foster, Reporter

Building work on the former Harmony Bar was refused planning permission last night in the wake of protest from residents.

Plans to create flats, a restaurant and a pub at the premises in Railton Road, Herne Hill Ward, were rejected on design grounds.

Eighty-nine people had signed a petition calling for the site to no longer be used as pub because nearby streets had become more residential.

Petitioners described the planned extension to the top and side of the building as “very unsightly”.

At Lambeth Council’s planning meeting last night, Councilllor Steve Bradley said: "At the moment I think it has a very overbearing effect on the surrounding area and it is detrimental to the neighbours."

Councillor Brian Palmer said: "We should be striving for the highest standard of architecture, whatever the development is, and that is no great addition to the street scene in Railton Road."

Margaret McMahon, who said she lived through some of the torment caused by the previous drinking establishment, reacted with relief to the rejection.

She said: "I am very pleased that the councillors were able to see the building would not fit in with the general area and recognised residents’ concerns."

Herne Hill Ward Councillor Jim Dickson also welcomed the refusal and said: "I was delighted the committee recognised the strength of feeling and denied it."