Southwark Council response to published plans for the Aylesham Centre in Peckham

30 November 2022

Cllr James McAsh, Cabinet Member for the Climate Emergency and Sustainable Development, said: “Berkeley Group, the private developer and owner of the Aylesham Centre site in Peckham, has published draft plans for its redevelopment of the site. When Berkeley shared these drafts with us in advance of publication, the council asked for significant changes to be made to bring the plans in line with what the council wants to see delivered there. Unfortunately, none of our concerns have been addressed in the published draft.

“In summary, we want to see a development that works for the local community. This means it needs to deliver homes that people can afford, and benefits for local people.

“While we don’t own the site and can only influence what goes there as a planning authority, our planning policies set out very clearly what we want from this site: roughly 850 homes (at least 25 per cent social rent and 10 per cent other affordable housing, including a community land trust), retention of the supermarket, job creation from new shops and businesses, new public space, and buildings no taller than 20 storeys. These policies are part of the Southwark Plan, which was agreed following a lengthy consultation with residents. If development benefits our community then we will welcome it, but if it causes harm then we will not.

“Not everyone will support this level of development but there is no question that the area needs more homes, and the investment in public services that new developments bring. We will ensure the developer contributes to any local improvements that are needed as a result of more people moving into the area, such as GP provision, public space and transport.

“The Aylesham is at the heart of the Peckham community and it’s essential any new development works for that community. You can let Berkeley know your views now by responding to their consultation.

“The council is also setting up a Community Steering Group and will facilitate wider community engagement so that the Peckham community can shape the plans and hold the developer to account.

“It’s clear that the current plans aren’t good enough, so we will continue to work with Berkeley Homes and the wider community to ensure that any development on this site delivers the needs of local people, as set out in our planning policies.”

Page last updated: 30 November 2022