Royal Arsenal Residents Oppose Green Energy Centre Plans

Strategic Insights -

Residents living in Royal Arsenal have expressed strong objections to a proposed green energy centre on a public park, citing concerns over visual impact, noise, and disruption to the historic area. The centre, which would be built by Berkeley Homes, aims to provide low-carbon energy to heat new homes in the surrounding area. However, existing homeowners argue that the plan would dominate the historic buildings in Royal Arsenal and destroy the area's heritage. They claim that the property developer has presented their plans as a foregone conclusion, failing to engage with residents in a meaningful way.

Key Takeaways:

  • Residents living in Royal Arsenal have expressed opposition to the proposed green energy centre on Wellington Park.
  • The centre would be built by Berkeley Homes to provide low-carbon energy to heat new homes in the surrounding area.
  • Existing homeowners argue that the plan would dominate the historic buildings in Royal Arsenal and destroy the area's heritage.
  • Residents claim that the property developer has presented their plans as a foregone conclusion, failing to engage with residents in a meaningful way.
  • Benjamin Shelton, a homeowner in the Grade II listed Foundry House, stated that Berkeley Homes had only notified residents of their proposals days before a deadline for feedback.
  • Shelton warned that property prices in the area would "tank" as no one would want to buy a home next to an "industrial energy farm".
  • Another local resident, Danielle Cameron, suggested that the energy centre could be built elsewhere, such as on top of one of Berkeley Homes' blocks.
  • Cameron claimed that the property developer chose the park because it is cheaper than considering other options.

Statistics:

  • 2027: The proposed start date for the project, according to a Berkeley Homes spokesperson.
  • 2 options: The property developer has presented two possible designs for the energy centre, including one with a fenced off compound and another with a public footpath through the ASHP.
  • 24/7: The proposed hours of operation for the energy centre, which residents argue would disrupt the quiet atmosphere of the area.
  • Green space: The area where the energy centre would be built is described as a public park and "essentially a really quiet area".

Sources:

  • "Penge nursery wants to extend capacity - admitting newborns with new roof terrace" (no date provided)
  • "Plumstead homeowner wants to replace hedge with fruit trees" (no date provided)
  • "Work on this project is not due to start until 2027" ( Berkeley Homes spokesperson)