Two architecturally celebrated council estates in south London have been saved from demolition after more than a decade of campaigning by residents. The Cressingham Gardens and Central Hill estate were under threat, but a change in council leadership has handed a reprieve to the communities that cherish these low-density 1960s developments.
Background
Residents have tirelessly fought to preserve their homes, emphasizing the significance of the estates' design and their popularity among current inhabitants. Previously, Lambeth council argued that the estates were in poor repair and that demolishing them would allow for the construction of much-needed social and affordable housing.
The plans for demolition were initiated when the council was under Labour control. However, following the elections in May, the Greens won the most seats and now operate as a minority administration, opposing the demolition plans. A cabinet meeting next week is expected to reverse the previous decisions regarding the estates.
Community Impact
The fate of Cressingham Gardens and Central Hill has garnered wider attention due to their architectural significance and the prolonged uncertainty faced by tenants and leaseholders. A 2022 review of Homes Lambeth, the now-defunct body managing housing for the council, raised concerns about the redevelopment plans, noting that the net increase in social rent homes would be minimal.
