High Court gives go-ahead to legal challenge of Gove decision to approve towering Southbank development

The High Court has agreed to hear a statutory review claim challenging the Levelling Up Secretary Michael Gove's decision to allow the construction of a 100-metre tall office building on London's Southbank.

Gove called in the London Borough of Lambeth's decision to approve the development in February but consequently gave the application the green light.

The controversial new building will include a 40,000 square foot centre for grassroots artists and independent cultural producers aimed at providing affordable studios and performance venues, alongside office space, and gardens.

It will replace a 1970s tower block currently standing on the site, which was once owned by ITV Studios.

In Gove's decision notice, he considered that the towering development would impact the South Bank conservation area, Roupell Conservation area, and the setting and significance of three nearby listed buildings, Somerset House, National Theatre, and the IBM building.

However, the campaign group 'Save Our South Bank' argued that Gove failed to give his views or reasons as to the impact on protected views of St Paul's, Waterloo Bridge and five other Conservation Areas. 

Alongside this ground, the group also argued that Gove misinterpreted planning policy and failed to recognise the requirement to deliver housing as part of the development. 

Additionally, it asserted that Gove misinterpreted planning policy when it comes to the circular economy and the requirement to consider whether the existing building on site could be retained to deliver residential uses.

Mrs Justice Lang DBE granted Save Our South Bank permission to apply for planning statutory review.

A spokesperson for the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities said it would not be appropriate to comment in light of the ongoing litigation.

Adam Carey