A property developer has withdrawn its planning application for the redevelopment of The Walnuts Shopping Centre in Orpington.
The original proposal made by Ariel was to transform the shopping centre by building 990 flats across six residential blocks, ranging from four to 19 storeys.
It also included retail space targeted at local and independent retailers, new pedestrian routes, a leisure centre, and a day care centre.
The decision to withdraw the application was made after issues were raised by the community, according to an Areli spokesperson.
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Areli said it has engaged "extensively" over the past two years with organisations, tenants, schools, and businesses within the Bromley Borough when proposing plans for the redevelopment.
It now looks forward to consulting locals on future regeneration plans in the coming months, according to an Areli spokesperson.
Yvonne Bear, executive Bromley Councillor for renewal, recreation and housing said if Areli were to submit a further application to the council, this would need to be considered on its own merit, with consultation being a part of this.
She added that future developers should respond to local views before proposing improvement plans to public spaces that also respect the nature of Orpington.
The Walnuts application, which was submitted in December 2021, was under formal consideration by Bromley Council but a decision was not determined.
A spokesperson for Areli said: “While we are encouraged that there is strong support for the principle of regenerating The Walnut Shopping Centre, we have listened closely to the issues raised by the local community and consequently, have decided to withdraw our proposal.
“We remain fully committed to creating a vibrant and distinctive town centre focused on local and independent retailers, supported by new homes.
“Over the past two years, we have engaged extensively with local organisations, tenants, schools, businesses and residents as well as with Bromley Council.
“We look forward to consulting on future regeneration plans in the coming months.”
Councillor Yvonne Bear said: “We have received confirmation from Areli that they are withdrawing their major planning application in Orpington town centre.
“We welcome that Areli are listening to councillors' and residents' views on their plans and their commitment to continue to engage with the local community.
“If Areli were to submit a further application to the Council at some stage, this would need to be considered on its own merit, with consultation clearly a part of this.
“It is hoped that any future proposal being brought forward would respond to the strong local views in proposing desirable improvements to public spaces that respect the nature of Orpington, improve the town centre and are consistent with local planning policies.”
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