English Heritage slams Foster's Ealing scheme

English Heritage has 'strongly objected' to the proposed Foster + Partners-led redevelopment of Ealing Town in west London.

The Arcadia scheme, on which HKR and John Pardey Architects are also working, is being developed by Glenkerrin. Its keystone is Foster's 40-storey residential building, known as the 'Leaf' tower.

English Heritage (EH) has advised Glenkerrin of its objections to the proposal, saying in a statement that it had made its decision 'on the grounds of its inappropriate scale, lack of contextual relation to the established character of the immediate area, its impact upon the wider historic environment, (particularly in relation to the setting of listed buildings and the character and appearance of conservation areas,) and the detrimental impact that would be imposed upon the established sense of place in Ealing'.

The statement continues: 'The proposed development does not meet all of the criteria in the London Plan, or in CABE/EH guidance on tall buildings.

'As such, the local authority are advised to recommend refusal for planning permission, and refusal of conservation area consent for the demolition of buildings on the site in the absence of an appropriate scheme for redevelopment.'

Neither Foster + Partners nor Glenkerrin were available for comment.