Bexley planning bosses have given the green light for 600 new homes and a new school to be built at Erith Quarry.

Bexley Council's planning committee voted unanimously in support of the planning application submitted by Essex developers, The Anderson Group, at a committee meeting last night (March 31).

The site, which has entrances in Fraser Road and Riverdale Road, looks set to feature 600 one and two bedroom flats and three and four bedroom houses on tree-lined residential streets.

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An image of what the new school could look like

A 21-classroom primary school for 630 pupils set to create 50 new jobs is also in the pipeline.

The plans were passed despite objections from London Wildlife Trust and Bexley Natural Environment Forum on the impacts the development will have on wildlife on the designated Site of Borough Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC).

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Erith Quarry as it is now

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Tony Wileman, Conservation Ecologist with London Wildlife Trust, who presented the Trust’s views at the Committee, commented: “We recognise the conflicting requirements for the site and the need for housing in the Borough of Bexley but are hugely disappointed at the scale of this loss.

"This is a designated wildlife site and the decision seems to fly in the face of the council’s own policy targets for nature conservation, and sets a worrying precedent for other wildlife sites in London.“ 

Craig Rought, Development Director for the Anderson Group said: “I’m delighted with the planning committee’s unanimous decision, which follows a year of hard work, including extensive consultation with local people.

“Our team has developed an innovative and exciting scheme for the regeneration of Erith Quarry which will bring it back into use for the benefit of new residents, and the existing community.

"The scheme responds to competing aspirations for development and ecology. #

"The proposals respect ecology by securing the on-going management of ecological and woodland areas, but also allow for the opening of a much-needed primary school in September 2017, and providing new family homes.”

What do you think about these plans? Call Fiona Simpson 01689 885734 or email: fiona.simpson@london.newsquest.co.uk