Public asked to shape future of Bromley town centre

By Lachlan Leeming, Local Democracy Reporter

Avoiding an overload of tower blocks and protecting historic buildings are among the main actions which could be endorsed for the future of Bromley’s town centre.

Public consultation has been opened on the Bromley Town Action Plan, with residents’ opinions wanted to help shape the area in the coming years.

Comments are sought on a range of issues, including retail, public spaces, transport and the environment, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, with the council describing input from local people and businesses as “vital” in terms of shaping future plans.

Bromley town councillor Michael Rutherford said he and his fellow ward members had already submitted thoughts on the plans.

He said: “The existing Bromley Town Area Action Plan is now 10 years old, and has been quite a success, such as the Bromley North village improvements and central high street improvements.

“It has also delivered new homes at St Mark’s Square and new homes in progress in Tweedy Road.

“But it is now 10 years old and needs to be updated.

“(Fellow Bromley Town members) Will (Harmer), Nicky (Dykes) and I want more protection for the more attractive buildings on the High Street, and want to avoid an excess of tower blocks west of the High Street.”

In May councillors were told that the coronavirus pandemic could lead to a boom in demand for office space in greater London areas like Bromley’s town centre, in another hint at what the future might hold for the area.

It came after councillors approved two new applications to build office space in the borough – one being a massive mixed-use proposal for the former Town Hall, as well as the redevelopment of the Wells House building in Elmfield Road.

“We maintain our strongly-held views that Bromley is a compelling location for businesses to operate in and to which to relocate,” Cllr Peter Morgan, executive councillor for renewal, recreation and housing, said at the time.

Bromley council said online that the Covid-19 pandemic “is changing the way we live and work, potentially in the longer term,” ahead of asking for residents to get involved in the consultation.

“These changes threaten to have significant impacts on the vitality and viability of town centres, hence the council wants to plan ahead, and put in place guidance which will help the borough evolve sustainably and specifically to help the town centre to thrive in years to come,” the authority stated.

The consultation can be found here and will be open until October 5.

Pictured top: Bromley town centre