Wimbledon Chase railway station could see nine-storey block of flats built on top

By Tara O’Connor, Local Democracy Reporter

A block of more than 80 flats could soon be built on top of Wimbledon Chase railway station.

A planning application to demolish the existing entrance to the station has been lodged with Merton council.

The redevelopment would see a nine-storey block built on top of the station. It was opened in 1929 and is served by Thameslink trains.

The plans also propose demolishing shops next to the station, in Rothesay Avenue, including fireplace shop Grate Expectations.

Plans were submitted to Merton council by developer Wimbledon Square Developments, and a public consultation is open until August 25.

A previous version of the plans for a seven-storey block of flats was criticised for not including step-free access – this has been included in the latest application.

Tory MP for Wimbledon, Stephen Hammond, said it had been a “fundamental concern” for people during the consultation.

He said: “I am pleased to see that the revised proposals have facilitated the future provision of accessible facilities, while keeping the overall design of the buildings in line with the much-loved art-deco architecture along Kingston Road.”

An objection from The Wimbledon Society said the proposed upgrade of the station was “dreary”.

In a letter, Chris Goodair, from the society, wrote: “The stylish, albeit neglected 1920s frontage, with the circulation area for pedestrians, would be a considerable loss to the area.

“While the current entrance within the station is not great, the proposed entrance is much less inviting, as well as dreary.

“The proposal for a utilitarian low height corridor, which is longer than the present day entrance, is also not an improvement.”

Thameslink and Great Northern Railways with Network Rail have submitted a bid to the Government for funding for the step-free access at the station.

Across the part nine-storey, part four-storey building, there would be 56 one-bedroom flats, 21 two-bedroom flats and six studio flats.

Susannah Denardo, from Wimbledon Square Developments, said: “The improved design will future-proof the station and provide new, modern housing for Merton, while causing minimal disruption to commuters.”

Pictured top: CGI of plans for Wimbledon Chase Station (Picture:Wimbledon Square Developments)