Re-consultation for Amazon Logistics Hub – 16th December 2021

Re-consultation – conversion of part of London Wall car park to an Amazon Last Mile Logistics Hub

You may recall that this application (ref: 21/00419/FULL) for the change of use of part of the existing underground carpark in London Wall “from 41 car parking spaces to a last mile delivery hub” (namely Amazon) first appeared in August. The BA, along with a number of residents, objected to this scheme due to the loss of residential amenity, noise, increased traffic flows, inappropriate location abutting a Grade II and Grade II* listed residential estate and gardens, and concerns over public safety”.

Having read through the documents provided in this re-consultation, we see no reason to change our objection to the application. The amendments to the scheme indicate that the Applicant is proposing to undertake groundworks to re-grade the access ramp and lay-by (which is to be used as the drop-off point for the Amazon lorries). This area is within the boundary of the Scheduled Monument (ie. the remains of the London Wall) at the site’s north western corner and Scheduled Monument Consent (SMC) is being sought for these works.

We would point out however that this is against Planning Policy DM.12.1 which requires “heritage assets, their settings and significance” to be sustained and enhanced – not damaged or their access restricted by the regrading of the nearby dropping-off point. Historic assets are surely more important than Amazon delivery trucks!

We would also reiterate our view that this is a totally inappropriate location. The access road to the car park entrance is narrow and one way, with a virtual blind bend half way down. What happens when the drop-off point is already in use by other vehicles? What about the danger to pedestrians trying to access the London Wall remains and the gardens?

We are also puzzled in the extreme as to why this application has got as far as it has given the City of London’s emerging plans for the site at London Wall West which will render this proposal completely inoperable.

Whilst we have no objection to the concept of the change of use of car parking spaces to a last mile delivery hub per se, we believe that this location is totally unsuitable and would urge the applicant and the City planning officers to seek a more appropriate site. Anyone wishing to comment on this application can do so here

The closing date for comments is 3^rd January 2022