One of the most controversial planning sagas in recently history recently came to what seems to be its conclusion. The plans were to create a massive new mixed use tower in Battersea. However, there was a huge, high-profile backlash to the project. We want to have a closer look here, then if you need any help with property investment in Wandsworth, guaranteed rent, or other services, you can come to us.

Proposals

There have been plans to build on the site at the Southern end of Battersea Bridge for several years. Architects Farrells were given the task to design it in 2022. Plans were submitted to Wandsworth Council in 2024. The original proposal was to build a 39 storey tower, although it was cut to 36 plus a smaller, 13 storey block at the pre-application stage. A further two storeys were trimmed before the full application. The final design was for a 100m tall, 29 storey tower with a 20 storey shoulder block. It would contain 110 homes (50% affordable), as well as office space and a restaurant overlooking the river.

As we said, there was a big backlash to the plans. There were over 2,000 objections from locals and heritage groups, including some very famous names. Mick Jagger, a resident of the area for decades, signed a petition and was very vocal about his opposition to the proposal. Crucially, the biggest concern was the development would change the area forever. There were also fears about the negative visual impact on nearby heritage assets.

Ultimately, Wandsworth Council made the decision to reject the plans in April 2025. Notably, there was criticism of the height. In addition, there was anger that the proposal did not comply with the Local Plan and designation that the site should be for mid-rise buildings in keeping with the area. Talk to us about property investment in Wandsworth.

Recent decision

Responding to the decision to deny planning permission, the developer Rockwell chose to appeal to the Planning Inspectorate. However, they made the decision to throw out the appeal. While there was appreciation for the benefits of the scheme, including providing a good number of new homes, the cons were impossible to ignore.

Interestingly, Rockwell had already taken action and asked to recover the appeal and ask Steve Reed, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, to decide on it. The decision from the Planning Inspectorate means this can’t happen now though. This all but spells the end for the plans.

It will be very exciting to see if there are new proposals for the site in the future. The planning saga shows how important it is to consider Local Plans, site designations, and the impact on historic environments. A new proposal for a mid-rise building is more likely to get planning permission, especially if it includes a large amount of affordable housing.

Do you need help with property investment in Wandsworth?

Battersea has become one of the most impressive parts of London in the last few decades, driven by developments at Nine Elms, including the iconic Power Station. The regeneration is fantastic, creating some of the most impressive neighbourhoods and amenities in the city. It’s a really great area for investments.

If you find wonderful properties to invest in and want some help, you can rely on Finefair Ltd. We’ve got a wealth of experience, including with property investment in Wandsworth and other parts of London. We can do it all, including guaranteed rent, HMO conversion and management, council leasing, and more. We’ll be the perfect partner, able to give you a bespoke service and adapt when you need us to.

So, get in touch today and let us know about your plans.