Archway Campus redevelopment refused
We are pleased to share the news that Islington Council has refused the application for the Archway Campus redevelopment. This decision follows significant opposition from local residents, community groups, and heritage organisations, with over 450 formal objections submitted. The Council found the proposal to be in clear breach of multiple planning policies at national, regional, and local levels.
The Archway Campus Joint Action Group, which includes the Highgate Society, submitted a detailed 45-page objection outlining major policy failures.
Islington Council’s decision identified 14 key reasons for refusal, including:
- Failure to Meet Affordable Housing Requirements: The proposed development fell significantly short of Islington’s policy requiring 50% affordable housing.
- Failure to Provide an Appropriate Mix of Housing: The scheme prioritised studio and one-bedroom flats at the expense of the need for family-sized homes.
- Heritage and Conservation Impact: The scale, height, and footprint of the new buildings, along with the proposed demolition and alteration of heritage assets, failed to preserve or enhance the Holborn Union Infirmary Conservation Area.
- Harmful Impacts from the 27-Storey Tower: The excessive height of the proposed tower resulted in unacceptable visual, functional, and environmental impacts, particularly harming views from nearby heritage sites.
- Environmental and Sustainability Concerns: The proposal raised serious concerns regarding wind and light impacts, biodiversity provisions and sustainability.
The scheme has now been referred to the Greater London Authority, and a decision is awaited. The developer has also signalled its intention to appeal. Meanwhile, Historic England has submitted their application to the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) for a final decision on listing the Archway Campus buildings which would provide the site with much stronger protection against harmful development.
The Highgate Society will continue to work with the community in Highgate and Archway to ensure that any future proposals for the Archway Campus site are responsible, policy-compliant, and beneficial to local residents.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the residents who took the time to submit objections and we will continue to keep you updated.
Islington Council’s Delegated Report and Planning Decision Notice can be found here and here.
28 March 2025
