Developer Mount Anvil has submitted updated plans to redevelop the former Bacton Low Rise estate, off Wellesley Road, on behalf of Camden Council.
Redevelopment plans are for 447 new homes, almost double the number approved in regeneration plans from 2012, with two towers up to 26 storeys high, according to documents on Camden Council’s online planning portal.
Campaign group Bacton Tower Action (BTA) invited a council cabinet member and an officer as well as Mount Anvil to a meeting on February 20, but they are reported to have pulled out at the last minute.
Despite their absence, groups including the Heath & Hampstead Society and Kentish Town Neighbourhood Forum attended.
Billy Bryant, from the South End Close Residents Association, highlighted similar projects involving the council including Murphy’s Yard – another high-rise scheme between Kentish Town and Gospel Oak – which was withdrawn after opposition from community groups.
He added: “They’re getting used to cozy relationships with the developer and think they can do the same again.”
Attendee Jo Siedlecka said: “It’s very cowardly of the council not to attend. We voted for them and they are not here.”
Cllr Tom Simon, Liberal Democrat opposition leader, said there was a “great turnout” at the meeting.
He added: “It’s a shame no-one from the council or Mount Anvil came. It’s a real missed opportunity to hear the views of the community.
“They are not obliged to come. If we are serious about engaging with the community this is a gift but if you are not…”
In correspondence with BTA, Mount Anvil said it would meet six community members for an “in depth” talk.
But BTA chair Robert Lewenstein said most meetings were during the day when people were at work and only three people turned up at one evening event.
“Everyone should hear what they have to say,” he added.
A Camden Council spokesperson said: “While no arrangements were made for council representatives to attend the Bacton Towers Action Group meeting, we are committed to listening to the views of all of our local stakeholders and Mount Anvil has an ongoing direct dialogue with the group to ensure this is achieved.
“We place great value on our ongoing engagement with the community in Gospel Oak as we work with Mount Anvil to develop these plans.”
They said Mount Anvil has held four design consultation sessions, two ‘Meet the Developer’ events, and weekly drop-ins.
“Listening to local residents and groups is essential to the ongoing design process, and Mount Anvil have offered to facilitate a dedicated consultation event with representatives of the Bacton Towers Action Group.
“Further public consultation events will also take place ahead of a planning application being submitted.”
Mount Anvil was approached for comment.
