‘People are genuinely horrified’: Residents protest construction of new riverside tower

By Charlotte Lillywhite, Local Democracy Reporter

Nearly 2,000 residents have opposed the construction of a new 34-storey tower block.

The tower, known as One Battersea Bridge, would replace an empty nine-storey office building at the corner of the River Thames and Battersea Bridge Road, according to plans submitted to Wandsworth council by developer Promonotoria Battersea Ltd.

The plans have sparked fury from residents on both sides of the river – including Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger – with Chelsea resident Rob McGibbon’s Change.org petition opposing the construction gaining more than 1,950 signatures since June 2.

Among objectors’ main concerns are the size of the proposed tower, which would spoil the river view and cause traffic problems. Mr McGibbon, 58, said: “I think people are genuinely horrified that anyone can think that this design is a good idea. It does not warrant merit on any level at all.”

Mr McGibbon raised further concerns that the proposal does not follow council policy, adopted last year, which identifies buildings only up to six storeys tall as suitable for the site.

He said: “If we get one tower here like this, there will be other towers. It will set a precedent and, before we know it, it will end up looking like Nine Elms and Vauxhall.”

Labour council leader Simon Hogg also stressed his objection to the plans on X on 12 June, saying that the tower ‘would inflict more harm than good on the local area’.

A spokesperson for the development said: “Our regeneration plans will replace an energy inefficient office building, which is no longer fit for purpose in modern London, with 142 much-needed new homes, of which 45 will be affordable. Tackling the urgent need for new, high-quality housing in Wandsworth, this development will provide an affordable home for at least 160 local people.

“The proposal also includes 100 per cent affordable office space for Battersea SMEs [small and medium-sized enterprises] and startups to thrive, and a new community hub for local charities – with three charities already having expressed an interest in utilising the space. The whole community should benefit from the planned public realm improvements.”

Pictured top: Rob McGibbon by Battersea Bridge in 2023 (Picture: Britt Steensland)