Affordable housing development receives 100 objections over fears of ‘drug taking’ in play area
By Joe Coughlan, Local Democracy Reporter
Plans for a new set of flats have received more than 100 objections, with locals saying they fear the development will lead to teenagers “taking drugs” in the children’s play area.
Bromley council has received plans for 26 new flats in Isabella Drive, Orpington, Bromley, all of which will be “affordable”.
The plans, submitted by Keniston Housing Association, include a new building up to three storeys tall on the site, as well as adding parking spaces and two dedicated play areas for children.
Planning documents from Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt architects, on behalf of Keniston Housing Association, said: “The proposal aims to sensitively provide much needed additional affordable housing to the borough through a carefully planned addition to the existing urban grain. It provides a variety of housing typologies, whilst providing a holistic aesthetic which relates to the existing materiality of the context.”
The plans have received 102 objections online from residents. One anonymous neighbour said they felt the new play areas would encourage more noise outside neighbours’ houses.
They added: “If this plan goes ahead, you will be giving said people a platform not only for the kids to act worse then [sic] they already do, but a place for teenagers to come away from the street corner and take drugs in the play area.”
Planning documents said two public consultation events were held regarding the new flats.
The developers also said they acknowledged the concerns of residents regarding antisocial behaviour and the children’s play space.
They said: “Play space will be provided for the development in accordance with local planning policy. In addition, Keniston is to review the wider strategy across the estate.”
The decision on the new flats in Orpington will be discussed at a Bromley Council planning meeting on May 25.
Pictured top: A design image of the new flats planned as seen from the courtyard (Picture: Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt/Keniston Housing Association)
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