Underused Mitcham car park seen as perfect site for much-needed homes

By Harrison Galliven, Local Democracy Reporter

Merton council has sold its loss-making Mitcham car park to a major housing association in an effort to boost development in the area.

However, residents insist the purchase of the Majestic Way site by Clarion Housing must result in development that “recognises Mitcham’s distinct culture and village character”.

The Majestic Way site covers a large area in central Mitcham, and includes the now-closed St Marks car park as well as a number of retail units.

Clarion, the largest housing association in the UK, plans to build new affordable housing and “improved and diversified commercial spaces” on the site.

Tony Burton, secretary of local civic society said:  “The Majestic Way site is the key to the future of Mitcham Village. We congratulate Clarion on taking a lead on its future and welcome the commitment it has given to “community-driven redevelopment”.

“This needs to recognise Mitcham’s distinct culture and village character.  The more Mitcham tries to compete with nearby centres like Wimbledon, Tooting, Croydon and Sutton, the less successful it will become.

“As a first step, we have asked Clarion to engage with local people about their ambitions for Mitcham Village before plans are drawn up.”

Clarion is also working with the council on its £1.8 billion Merton Regeneration Project. This project will see the replacement of 1,000 existing homes and the construction of 1,800 new homes across Eastfields, High Path and Ravensbury estates.

Richard Cook, Group Development Director at Clarion, said: “We are poised to deliver a project that respects the area’s heritage while paving the way for its bright future.”

Pictured top: The St Marks carpark (Picture: Google Street View)