A local organisation has spoken out against proposals to build two taller towers on a previously approved 16-storey apartment building next to Unilever's new UK headquarters in Kingston.

Cube Real Estate, the project's developer, is planning to replace the existing 34 metre structure with two new buildings, which will stand at a height of 64 metres.

Cube claims the development will lead to a "cleaner townscape and balance across the site whilst respecting Kingston's heritage", and "create homes that meet local needs."

But the Kingston-upon-Thames society, which aims to champion high standards of planning, conservation and design in the borough, believes the plans fail to respect the wishes of local people.

John Allen, newly-appointed Chairman of the Society, said: "Our main concern is the views from the market place.

"We need more housing but developments also have to respect the environment and local interests."

The development is particularly controversial because it would exceed the borough's existing maximum height guidelines.

Under these guidelines, which are set out in the Draft Tall Buildings Strategy 2023, town centre buildings must be limited to 12 storeys in order to preserve the area's urban character.

advertisement

Although the current structure sits within these restrictions at 11 storeys, Cube's proposal would be a staggering 19 storeys high.

While there are other buildings in the area that sit above the permitted height, most notably the 50m-tall Royal Exchange Tower, Cube's plans are unprecedented for Kingston.

Stephen Coates, member of the Society, believes approving the development would "set a disastrous precedent" for the borough's historic centre.

He said: "The latest proposal represents not refinement but escalation – a renewed attempt to push taller, more intrusive towers into one of Kingston's most sensitive historic settings despite Kingston's most sensitive historic settings and the clear direction of emerging Local Plan policy.

"By proposing buildings that exceed established height guidance, challenge protected view corridors, and compete directly with the Royal Exchange landmark tower, the scheme risks setting a damaging precedent that could unravel the carefully managed skyline of the historic centre".

One local resident echoed Coates concerns, claiming that along with the Old Post Office redevelopment and Brook Street offices Cube's plans would create "a cumulative wall of height that is already having a real impact on residents' light, privacy and the character of the area."

They further claimed the proposed height is "completely out of keeping with Kingston", and would affect the Fairfield and Knights Park Conservation Areas.

Jonathan Lawes, Development and Asset Management Director at Cube Real Estate 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."

Residents have until 26 February to express their views. Comments can be submitted to [email protected].