Lambeth Council have given permission for the building  of a 9th floor lift shaft / stairwell at the new TAYLOR WIMPEY "Palace View"  development on Lambeth High St. (opposite Lambeth Bridge)

This 9th floor construction will block or partially block views of clock tower (Big Ben) from within the Kennington conservation area. It is not providing housing in itself , but rather roof access for the residents to enjoy "panoramic and obstructed views of the palace of Westminster"  , whilst at the same time denying established neighbourhoods the limited and iconic view we currently have.

There was no consultation with residents regarding this development , no opportunity to object or raise any concerns. In fact , all of the developers marketing material shows an 8 floor construction only , which was in keeping with the height of the previous demolished building , and the buildings on either side of this new residential luxury block.

This building appears to be in breach of the councils own conservation guidelines that notes Big Ben as a landmark silhouette , and as such there should be no foreground development that  obscures the silhouette , and there should be no background development that harms the silhouette.

We call on Lambeth Council to review its  permission to proceed with , and complete this construction , and engage with interested parties.