Future of historic Athlone House is still under threat

Published: 4th November, 2010

• LAST summer as many as 500 local residents took the trouble to write or email Camden Council opposing a proposal to demolish Athlone House, the Victorian mansion which overlooks Hampstead Heath close to the entrance to Kenwood.  

We understand this weight of resident opinion was a significant factor in persuading the council to reject the application.

Originally the developers had entered into an agreement with Camden whereby they would be allowed to build flats in the grounds of Athlone House.  

This was in exchange for an obligation to safeguard the fabric of the house, restore it, and return it to use as a single private dwelling.

Having profited from the construction and sale of the flats, the developers subsequently applied to Camden to set aside these contractual obligations. Instead, they sought permission to tear down Athlone House, which they claim has no architectural merit, and to replace it with a luxury palace.  

It is Camden’s rejection of this application that they are now appealing against.

Almost every visitor to Hampstead Heath that we have spoken to is outraged by the prospect that, after profiting from the sales of the flats, the developers should be allowed to renege on their obligations to restore the house.  

They feel that the design and scale of the proposed luxury palace is wholly inappropriate for such a sensitive location and that views from the Heath will be irrevocably spoiled.

The proposal is certainly in conflict with planning policies intended to control development on the fringes of Hampstead Heath.

Though the appeal will not be heard until February 2011, November 11 is the last date for residents to register their opposition to this proposal. 

Whether or not the inspector will overturn Camden’s decision and permit the destruction of Athlone House  is in the balance.  

However, by emailing views to Sian.Evans@pins.gsi.gov.uk, or writing to her at The Planning Inspectorate, 4/02 Kite Wing, Temple Quay House,2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, quoting reference APP/X5210/A/10/2135357, residents are able to influence the inspector and to improve the chance of a positive outcome for our community.
Catherine Budgett-Meakin
Chair, Highgate Society
Tony Hillier
Chairman, Heath and Hampstead Society