The Kingston and Surbiton Green Party has expressed its opposition against "unnecessary" plans to build taller towers and more homes than previously approved next to Unilever's new UK headquarters in Kingston. 

Kingston Council already green-lit plans to build a 16-storey apartment building next to Eden Campus, in Kingston town centre, but developer Cube Real Estate now wants to build two taller towers with 272 co-living and affordable homes on the Lever House site.

The plans include replacing the existing 34 metre structure with two new buildings, which will stand at a height of 64 metres.

Speaking about its opposition, the local Green Party said: "We strongly oppose this unnecessary development, which risks undermining both the environmental integrity and community character of the area. 

"At a time when local and national policy emphasises sustainability, climate responsibility, and efficient land use, proceeding with new construction without fully considering viable alternatives is both short-sighted and avoidable.

"One of the key concerns is the failure to prioritise the repurposing of existing buildings. Retrofitting and adapting current structures would significantly reduce carbon emissions, minimise construction waste, and preserve the local built heritage. 

"This approach aligns with best practices in sustainable planning and should be the default starting point not an afterthought.

"In addition, the proposed development raises questions about necessity, scale, and long-term benefit to the community. Development should meet genuine local needs, not speculative or poorly justified expansion that places additional strain on infrastructure and green space."

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The party says it is  urging "decision-makers to pause and reconsider". 

It added: "A more responsible approach would centre on refurbishment, adaptive reuse, and genuine community engagement to identify solutions that are both environmentally sound and socially beneficial.

"Sustainable development is not simply about building more, it is about building wisely, and only when truly needed."

The plans have also received backlash from a local architect adviser and a local organisation.

Jonathan Lawes, Development and Asset Management Director at Cube Real Estate previously told Nub News: "We are bringing forward new proposals for Lever House to deliver new homes for Kingston and improve on the previous consented scheme. We are currently consulting with the Council, local neighbours and the community. The relationship with neighbours,

"Conservation area and building heights is being assessed as these plans develop."