AN appeal will be launched against a council’s decision to refuse redevelopment plans for Greenwich Market.

The proposals, which would replace the iconic market with modern buildings and a hotel, were turned down in a unanimous decision by Greenwich Council last August.

Deputy leader of the council Councillor Peter Brooks told the planning meeting: “What I don’t want to see is some of our important buildings just disappearing overnight.”

Concerns were raised about the market losing it’s character, turning it into another “Bluewater” while others were worried about traffic congestion from the hotel and the future of businesses currently on the site.

But Greenwich Hospital, which owns the market, has announced it will lodge an appeal with the Planning Inspectorate next week.

Director Martin Sands said: “Greenwich Hospital has now decided to lodge an appeal on the original Greenwich Market planning application with the Planning Inspectorate.

“However we continue to meet with Greenwich Council officers and we hope to negotiate and reach agreement on as many issues as possible.”

Mr Sands said the scheme met the regeneration criteria, including being mindful of the area’s status as a World Heritage Site and being financially viable.

If successful, no work would take place until 2013.