Two architecturally significant 1960s housing estates in south London, Cressingham Gardens and Central Hill, have been saved from demolition. Residents campaigned for over a decade against Lambeth council's plans to raze the estates for new social and affordable housing.
The decision to save the Cressingham Gardens and Central Hill estates from demolition impacts thousands of residents and highlights a shift in housing policy priorities for Lambeth council, focusing on investment in existing homes and communities over large-scale redevelopment.
Two architecturally celebrated council estates in south London, Cressingham Gardens and the Central Hill estate, have been saved from demolition after more than a decade of uncertainty. Residents had campaigned tirelessly for their homes to be preserved, highlighting the design significance and popularity of the 1960s developments. Lambeth council had argued the estates were in poor repair and demolition would create needed social and affordable housing. However, the Green party, which now leads the council as a minority administration, opposes the plans. The reversal is expected to be confirmed at a cabinet meeting next week. A 2022 review had already questioned the redevelopment, noting a small net gain in social rent homes and citing low resident trust in the council due to inconsistent policy and delays. Both estates were designed by Lambeth architects, with Cressingham Gardens built to encourage neighbourliness and Central Hill designed to maximize light and views.
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