A controversial plan to convert the Wandsworth Citadel into a hotel is facing strong opposition, as revealed in a recent Wandsworth Council Planning Applications Committee meeting. The proposal, which involves demolishing the existing Salvation Army Citadel at 9 Ram Street and erecting a new six-storey building, has sparked concerns among local residents.
The proposed building would include flexible community/commercial space on part of the ground floor, with the remainder of the ground floor and the upper floors providing a 50-bedroom hotel. The Head of Development Management (Wandsworth) recommended that the committee approve the application subject to a Section 106 agreement and conditions, with a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) payable.
According to the meeting summary, the application has drawn 22 neighbour objections, citing concerns such as a lack of proper community consultation, loss of genuine community space, excessive building height, and a negative impact on residents due to increased noise and traffic. Objectors also expressed that the proposal is misaligned with local needs, with a preference for affordable housing.
The Wandsworth Town Partnership submitted a letter of support, stating that the application reflects their vision for sustainable, community-focused regeneration. The Wandsworth Conservation and Heritage Advisory Committee (CHAC) also supported the proposal to replace the existing building.
The committee was also scheduled to review a report by the Head of Development Management (Wandsworth) on recent decisions on planning applications made under delegated authority and by the Planning Applications Committee, a report by the Interim Director of Place on the closure of investigation files in May 2025 following complaints alleging a breach of planning control, and a report by the Head of Development Management (Wandsworth) on appeals closed during 1st May 2025 – 31st May 2025.