Durand Close redevelopment hits problems (From Sutton Guardian)

Carshalton's Durand Close redevelopment has angered neighbours

11:20am Saturday 5th May 2012 in News By James Pepper

The £130 million redevelopment of Durand Close has hit problems with the design of the buildings.

Sutton Councillor Colin Stears has been forced to ask Peter Snow, the principle committee manager, that all decisions regarding the plans "delegated to officers to be consulted on with local councillors and residents".

Problems had arisen for the council after colours and facings of the buildings didn't match plans.

The huge redevelopment of the notorious Durand Close is well underway and residents have began to move into some parts of the development.

However, not all residents are happy with the building so far.

Mr Stears has asked for a review into the height of the remaining blocks after residents complained.

Among the complaints lodged with the council is that the buildings are too tall and result in a "undue loss of privacy" for nearby residents.

John Whittington, a resident of Kingswood Drive for 13 years, said: "We didn't realise they would be so tall. We are being overlooked by flats and we are losing our privacy."

Fiancée Pam said: "I'm very upset at the whole thing. It is going to reduce the value of our property and we will not get as much sun."

Councillor Colin Stears said: "Durand Close is the biggest regeneration project in my ward for a generation and as a councillor it is my duty to represent the concerns of my residents.

"For various reasons there have been some minor changes to finishes of the new homes in the estate, and although the correct procedures were followed, I think it’s important that local councillors are kept up to date on any alterations so that we can feed the reasons back to residents.

"With regards to the height of the buildings, although they have been built to the specifications detailed in the plans, we’ve asked that plans for the later phases give a better idea of how they will look in relation to their surroundings."