A planning application to demolish the eyesore that is Victoria House in North Cheam, and build housing on the site, has finally been submitted.

The application is for four blocks ranging from four to ten storeys high, to provide 90 residential units (including 9 affordable units), with the potential for 282 occupants as well as retail space. There will be 55 parking spaces, 45 dedicated to residents, and 10 to be shared with shoppers. There will also be 4 parking spaces for retail outlets, 3 parking spaces for motorbikes and storage space for 96 bicycles.

You can view the plans online here by searching for the application number A2016/73710. The consultation period begun on 2nd March and closes on 1st April. You can comment on the proposed plans by writing to the London Borough of Sutton Planning Division at 24 Denmark Road, Carshalton, SM5 2JG, or by emailing developmentcontrol@sutton.gov.uk.

Speaking to residents, I understand that some concerns still remain about the height and design of the development, plus the lack of enough parking spaces. For years, Victoria House has been an eyesore on the skyline of North Cheam. Whilst we cannot have a development at any cost approach, there is also the need for Victoria House to be demolished and developed sometime soon. I will be following the debate carefully to make sure this important landmark site is returned to a state in which local residents can be proud.

I would urge residents to register their opinions with Sutton Council, and I am glad to see that we are one step closer to seeing this eyesore demolished.