Wimbledon Chase Station Plans Described as 'Dreary'
New proposals are for eighty flats in a nine-storey block
A CGI of plans for Wimbledon Chase Station. Picture: Wimbledon Square Developments
August 15, 2022
A block of more than 80 flats could soon be built on top of Wimbledon Chase Station. A planning application to demolish the existing entrance to the station has been lodged with Merton Council.
The redevelopment would see a nine-storey block built on top of the station. It was opened in 1929 and is served by Thameslink trains. The plans also propose demolishing shops next to the station in Rothesay Avenue, including fireplace shop Grate Expectations.
Plans were submitted to Merton Council by developer Wimbledon Square Developments and public consultation is open until August 25. A previous version of the plans was for a seven-storey block of flats was criticised for not including step-free access – this has been included in the latest application.
Tory MP for Wimbledon, Stephen Hammond, said it had been a “fundamental concern” for locals during the consultation. He added: “I am pleased to see that the revised proposals have facilitated the future provision of accessible facilities whilst keeping the overall design of the buildings in line with the much-loved art-deco architecture along Kingston Road.”
An objection from The Wimbledon Society said the proposed upgrade of the station is “dreary”. In a letter, Chris Goodair from the society wrote: “The stylish, albeit neglected, 1920’s frontage with the circulation area for pedestrians would be a considerable loss to the area.
“While the current entrance within the station is not great, the proposed entrance is much less inviting as well as dreary. The proposal for a utilitarian low height corridor which is longer than the present-day entrance is also not an improvement.”
Thameslink and Great Northern Railways with Network Rail has submitted a bid to the government for funding for the step-free access at the station. Across the part nine-storey, part four-storey building there would be 56 one-bedroom flats, 21, two-bedroom flats, and six studio flats.
Susannah Denardo from Wimbledon Square Developments said: “The improved design will future-proof the station and provide new, modern housing for Merton whilst causing minimal disruption to commuters.”
Tara O'Connor - Local Democracy Reporter