Sadiq has days to save South Bank

Press statement for immediate release:

16 August 2022

Stop ‘The Slab’ - Sadiq has days to save London’s South Bank

Residents and local community groups in and around Waterloo are calling on London Mayor, Sadiq Khan to protect their homes and neighbourhood, and preserve London's cultural heritage on the South Bank. Lambeth’s planners have sent the proposal to the GLA, and Sadiq now has less than two weeks to stop the development going ahead.

In March, Lambeth Council approved plans for a huge office development, with no homes included in the plans, right on the riverside. The enormous structure will dominate the area, blighting views of the Thames from every angle.

Vauxhall’s MP, Florence Eshalomi opposes the plans and has submitted formal objections to Lambeth Council, Sadiq Khan, London Mayor and the Secretary of State. She is calling on the Mayor to stop the plans before it’s too late.

Florence Eshalomi MP said: “I do not think these plans sufficiently benefit the local community and the impact of the proposed development could make the South Bank less attractive as one of London’s key cultural assets. I urge decision makers to look at this again.”

Michael Ball, Waterloo Community Development Group said: “"As Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan bravely stopped the Garden Bridge. He needs to act again NOW to protect London’s South Bank from another ill-conceived scheme, which will overwhelm and overshadow London’s most popular open space”.

Mark Potter, Coin Street said: “We must act now to save London’s riverside, the Mayor now has the power to intervene, and stand alongside the local community who are behind the campaign”.

Dearbhla Molloy, local resident said: "The living room where I spend most of my time has one window. I would welcome a visit from Sadiq Khan as he needs to understand that I would be left with only 7.5% daylight.”