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A 46-storey student accommodation tower in Canary Wharf has been greenlit by City Hall, a decision that not only approves a controversial development but also further erodes Tower Hamlets Council's planning authority. The Mayor of London's planning deputy, Jules Pipe, overruled the council's initial rejection, granting permission for nearly 1,000 student bedrooms at 7 Brannan Street, Daily Dazzling Dawn understand.
Deputy Mayor Jules Pipe justified the decision by emphasizing the tower's role in meeting London's ambitious housing targets. He highlighted the urgent need for affordable housing to address the capital's housing crisis and stimulate economic growth, aligning with the new Labour government's housing agenda. Mr. Pipe also stressed the economic importance of London's higher education institutions.
However, the decision marks yet another instance where Tower Hamlets Council's local planning decisions have been disregarded by City Hall. The council's initial rejection, based on concerns about anti-social behavior, noise, and the suitability of the location, was overruled despite local councillors' objections. This pattern of intervention, including the ongoing "super embassy" case involving the proposed Chinese embassy, underscores a significant loss of local control and diminishes Tower Hamlets' ability to shape its own development. Critics argue that these overrulings undermine local democracy and erode the council's ability to represent the interests of its residents. The repeated overriding of local decisions suggests a broader trend where City Hall prioritizes strategic London-wide objectives over local concerns, leaving Tower Hamlets Council with increasingly limited influence in its own borough.
The approved scheme will deliver 912 student bedrooms, with 320 at affordable rates. Jack Brewster, development director at Canary Wharf Group, expressed disappointment at the council's initial refusal, highlighting the project's contribution to Canary Wharf's diversification.
Notably, only a handful of local residents objected to the plans, and the council did not defend its rejection at the City Hall hearing. Similar high-rise student accommodation projects in Paddington and Archway are also facing City Hall intervention, indicating a consistent approach to planning decisions in London.
