London council moves to scrap demolition of 2 estates after 12-year fight
Lambeth Council in south London has proposed canceling plans to demolish two iconic 1960s housing estates, Central Hill and Cressingham Gardens, following a 12-year resident campaign. Officials concluded comprehensive redevelopment was financially unviable and will instead focus on repairing existing homes.
Why it matters
It marks a major policy shift toward preserving postwar architectural heritage and community stability over costly commercial redevelopment projects.
Residents of two landmark 1960s housing estates in south London may finally be able to remain in their homes after more than 12 years of uncertainty. Lambeth Council has proposed removing Central Hill in Crystal Palace and Cressingham Gardens beside Brockwell Park from its demolition and redevelopment programme, choosing instead to retain, repair and improve the existing homes. The proposal will be considered by the council’s Cabinet on October 21, according to Lambeth Council and The Guardian.A major shift in policyThe new plans would end the long-running threat of demolition for Central Hill and Cressingham Gardens, both of which are known for their distinctive postwar design, green spaces and established communities.
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