Anger over new block of flats to replace library

By Joe Coughlan, Local Democracy Reporter

Residents have blasted plans to replace a library with a block of flats, with the new building being called “extremely dominating” and “woefully” planned.

Bexley council has received plans to bulldoze the library in Sidcup for a new four-storey apartment block.

The plans were sent by BexleyCo, the council’s development company, and include 32 new flats.

Several residents have written to the council in objection to the plans, saying the building is too big and the design “does not relate to its surroundings”.

The Bexley Civic Society also objected to the plans, saying the four-storey building “dwarfs” nearby two-storey homes.

Conservative Councillor June Slaughter, who represents the Sidcup ward, said the new building was “completely out of character” next to the Edwardian and Victorian houses.

The councillor said: “Other buildings in this part of the road do not exceed three storeys. Being at the top of a hill, the building will appear extremely dominating.”

Planning documents from Stitch Architects, on behalf of BexleyCo, said the designs had been made after two online consultations with councillors and the local community.

They said: “Feedback from these important stakeholders has been considered in the design response which seeks to deliver a scheme that is sensitive to neighbours and sits comfortably in its context, bringing high-quality homes, activity and security to this town centre site.”

Cllr Slaughter also said the plans had a “woeful” lack of provision for community space, saying residents may feel socially isolated.

The plans to knock down the building come after a new council library opened in December last year on the nearby Sidcup High Street.

The application will be discussed at a planning meeting for Bexley council on March 2.

Pictured top: Plans for the new flats on the site of the library (Picture: Stitch Architects/BexleyCo)