Click here to see some informal and formal comments about the original application.
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Here are some artist's impressions of the proposed structure.
Critics had explained that it did not relate to any of the buildings in the immediate area
and that it detracted from the character of the Regent's Canal Conservation Area.
Some of these illustrations are misleading because this is actually a confined space, which can become very
congested when boats are using the lock or during commuting hours.
Click here to see some informal and formal comments about the original application. |
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Whilst there is general support for a cafe at this site, and for breathing life back into this area, it is important
that the canal-related community gains some additional benefit from this building.
For example, will the space be available as a community meeting point?
Or will it be reserved exclusively for paying customers?
There needs to be a clear connection between this building and the canal. This could be via internal decoration, merchandise, opportunities for artists in residence. If it ends up as a coffee shop with no other special features then this would be a wasted opportunity. For example, it would attract families to the area if there are opportunities to participate with hand painting of narrowboat accessories. The Design and Access Statement has stated that the cafe can serve locally sourced foods. On this basis, it should strive to ensure that all consumable supplies are delivered by boat or bicylce. Many of the original objections will be muted if a less contemporary design is proposed for the Western section of the building. There is no shelter or shade in the proposed outside seating area. If this area could be covered with an awning then it will offer an all-weather open space for musicians and artists as well as visitors. British Waterways should find an alternative location for the boaters' water point. Currently this is out of action (due to an act of vandalism in December) and it is located in the area proposed for outside seating. If this water point could be positioned a few yards further to the West, then it would add some life to the area and passers-by can interact with boaters. |