The Highgate Society's alternative plan to the Archway tower

Islington Council firmly refused the current proposal in March, citing an extensive number of national, London and local planning policy breaches, including inadequate affordable housing, an overabundance of small units, and significant harm to heritage assets.

However, the Mayor of London has called in the application, assuming authority over the final decision.

This ‘call-in’ underscores the urgency for communities to make their voices heard as the Greater London Authority (GLA) has a recent track record of overturning local authority decisions. 

The Highgate Society, in collaboration with the Better Archway Forum, the Islington Society, the Heath and Hampstead Society, and other local groups, has consistently opposed this ill-conceived plan. 

Liz Morris says the Archway Campus redevelopment has reached a pivotal juncture (Image: Liz Morris) The scheme proposes a 27-storey tower that is not only shockingly out of scale with its surroundings but would also harm cherished views from Waterlow Park and Hampstead Heath, dominate the historic Holborn Union buildings on the site, and overshadow neighbouring streets.

Moreover, the development falls short in addressing genuine housing needs. 

With 76.4% of units being studios or one-bedroom flats, it fails to meet the established need for family-sized homes. 

The so-called ‘affordable rent' component is misleading, as rents set at up to 80% are still mostly not affordable. And the tower is to house 242 students in a borough that has more student accommodation than any other borough in London.

An alternative, community-backed proposal exists. 

This plan emphasises low-rise buildings, a better mix of housing types, and genuine affordability, all the while respecting the site's historical significance. 

It offers a more sustainable and community-oriented vision for the area's future.

While we wait for a public hearing date now is the time for action. We urge residents to submit their objections to the GLA, referencing planning application P2024/2598/FUL. 

Comments can be sent via email to: planning@london.gov.uk or through the GLA's planning portal at planapps.london.gov.uk/

Your input can influence the outcome of this critical decision. Together, we can advocate for a development that truly serves the needs of our community.

Please visit our website at https://www.highgatesociety.com for more information and to stay updated on this issue.

Liz Morris is co-chair of The Highgate Society Planning Committee.