The Teddington Residents group fully supports Elleray Hall, which for many years has been providing vital services to the community, and we agree that the hall requires an upgrade.

However, we strongly believe that any upgrade needs to be on its current site where the centre has historically sat in quiet harmony with its neighbours.

Residents are concerned about the wider detrimental impact of the developments on the area. The loss of the North Lane East car park together with the proposed Controlled Parking Zones in adjacent streets will inevitably increase congestion in the area and impact on the successful functioning of the high street.

The further impact on congestion resulting from the proposed centre on the North Lane East car park, with its reduced parking facilities, has not been fully assessed.

The Council's current plans for the reprovision of Elleray Hall are of great concern to residents. The Council is proposing to relocate Elleray Hall to the North Lane East car park and build a 2-storey development of 16 flats on the existing site.

The housing development is being squeezed onto the existing Elleray Hall site, providing just one car parking space for disabled users. This, we believe, is inappropriate.

Independent Planning Consultants, Alsop Verril Ltd. have concluded: "Our overall impression is that the scheme is simply trying to cram too much into the site, and with the number of neighbouring homes that surround the site, and the character of the surrounding area, a lower density scheme that moves away from a large singular block would be more appropriate.

"The singular large block is too large for the site and would be quite oppressive. Its appearance is more akin to an institutional building, such as a doctors' surgery or school.

"We understand the need for affordable housing and support its provision in appropriate locations. However, this should not be justification for overdevelopment. The Council needs to apply the same scrutiny to itself as it does others."

The residents' petition – which has surpassed 1,000 signatures – sends a clear message that the Council's proposals are at odds with the needs of the local community.

This level of public opposition and the findings of independent planning experts mean that the onus is now on the Council to put forward alternative plans that the local community can support.

Residents are urging the council to totally rethink the scheme and help preserve Teddington's unique character. The developments will fundamentally change the character of this peaceful community and will swamp the surrounding buildings of historic merit.

To register your opposition to these proposals, please sign and share our petition .

Visit our website HERE

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Trustees of Elleray Hall write in support of Council plan for new site

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