Major East London scheme back in melting pot

The developer proposing one of East London's biggest current regeneration schemes is "considering its options" after Hackney councillors voted to postpone a decision on the proposals for a 4m sq ft development - designed by top architect Foster & Partners - for Bishop's Place, Shoreditch.

Developer Hammerson says its plans for Bishop's Place would transform a largely vacant area by delivering "a sustainable mix" of office space, a hotel and new homes including affordable units, along with public spaces lined with shops and cafes.

Despite officials recommending approval, Hackney council's planning committee voted five votes to two to defer their decision on the scheme.

However, the decision will be a boost for campaigners against the scheme (including artist Tracey Emin) who are fighting to keep a popular venue on Shoreditch High Street - the Light Bar - in operation. The bar, which is owned by Hammerson, is due to be demolished as part of the plans.

Hammerson, its architect, and its planning advisers DP9 said it was not possible to keep the bar and retain the quality of building design required by the development.

Speaking after the decision by Hackney Council, Joanna Axon, project director for Hammerson, said: "We are disappointed with the decision to defer the scheme given how many years we have been in discussions with the council."

She added: "Bishops Place is an important regeneration project that can transform a largely empty site, create thousands of new jobs alongside vastly improving the public spaces and links through the area.

"We will now be carefully examining the councillors' decision before we decide on how best to move forward."

The architects had been developing the proposals in consultation with Hackney council and the local community for more than three years. A planning application was submitted in August 2007.

Roger Milne

31 July 2008