Stand up to Sadiq: Labour Mayor usurps council decision to block Travis Perkins development
As you may be aware, earlier this year Westminster council rejected a planning application for 605 student flats in two towers; the tallest some 20 storeys and 90 metres high. At the hearing, Conservative councillors from Little Venice ward argued vociferously against the plans.
They argued that the applicant failed to adequately demonstrate the need for student accommodation in Westminster, that it was much too high and would affect many local residents.
This came after the council had rejected a previous application for the site in Spring 2022.
Unfortunately, the Labour Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, has run roughshod over local decision-making by usurping Westminster Council and taking control of the process himself.
This is an affront to local democracy, with residents and councillors effectively being ignored.
However, it is the inevitable result of the political situation in Hyde Park. We have a Labour government, a Labour MP, a Labour-run council, a Labour London Assembly Member and three Labour councillors.
As a result, no one will truly stand up to the Mayor, on this or on his plans to pedestrianise Oxford Street.
Only local Conservatives can ensure your voices are heard locally. We are determined to stick up for local people and are calling on the Mayor to reverse this move and restore the planning decision to your local councillors.
Please sign our open letter to the Mayor from the residents of Hyde Park Ward, Westminster.
It is time to stand up to Sadiq.