Plans to build on Tooting’s former Constitutional Club site have been rejected by the Planning Inspectorate.

Tooting History Group, local residents and Graveney councillors were united against this scheme which, the Planning Inspector concluded, fell short of the planning framework that states ‘good design is a key aspect of sustainable development, is indivisible from good planning and should contribute positively to making places better for people.’         

Tooting History Group’s Conservation Officer, Libby Lawson said, ‘We are delighted with this decision! This part of the High Street has a recognisable period character with a strong sense of time and place. Any development should protect or enhance the listed buildings towards the tube. What was proposed simply wasn’t good enough – if we are to lose a well-loved landmark, then what replaces it must work convincingly for locals now and for Tooting’s future residents. Care for our built heritage is a significant aspect of that.’

The main focus of the decision considered the effect on the character and appearance of the area, the satisfactory provision for replacement community facilities and open space, and the provision of affordable housing.   

Extracts from the report

‘The bulk and mass of the proposal, particularly the corner block would be excessive in the immediate context of the surrounding built form.’

‘Whilst I acknowledge the genuine intention to make the pocket park publically accessible, I consider the suggested condition cannot be relied upon to guarantee reasonable public access.’

‘..there is no mechanism available by which the affordable housing provision offered by the Appellant could be secured.’

The Inspector noted that the archaeological potential of the site would be possible to address by the attachment of an appropriate condition allowing for the investigation and recording of anything of interest during the course of any future development. Records show the green space, most recently used for crown green bowling, has never been developed. The site is within an Archaeological Priority Area being close to what was the Roman Stane Street and later, a medieval settlement. 

You can see our previous article on the Tooting Constitutional Club here.