Planning committee ignore environmental factors
The Planning Committee tonight made the decision to allow the building of yet another high block of flats by demolishing and replacing the Woolworth building. This will rise just a pavement distance away from the Uxbridge Road curb. If followed, this precedent will convert the Uxbridge Road into a canyon. High buildings to the east in the so-called office corridor have frontages that stand back some considerable distance from the curb thus reducing the canyon effect.So what are the planners trying to achieve in West Ealing when massing these high buildings to form a dark, deep oppressive canyon? During periods of zero or light winds the canyon will fill with and concentrate atmospheric pollution and during strong winds it will tunnel and increase wind speeds making life difficult for the frail, those wearing dresses and skirts and making it somewhere where no one would wish to linger and shop. This will adversely affect businesses along the Uxbridge Road.Eight members of our committee have lead sheltered lives and haven't been to Croydon (noted for its wind tunnel effects). I wonder if the professional planners have either!
Arthur Breens ● 2539d3 Comments