CONTROVERSIAL plans for the £15 million redevelopment of Walthamstow Central station have been submitted to Waltham Forest Council.

The proposals include creating a landmark station, 85 new homes, five new shops and an 88-bed hotel.

Construction of the high-rise element of the development on the station car park, in Hoe Street, could begin next Spring, if plans are approved.

Peter Hughes from developers Solum Regeneration said: "The proposals present an opportunity to provide a quality place in which to live, work and visit that is a catalyst for future economic regeneration in Walthamstow town centre.

"A new station square, public space and improved station access are core parts of the plan, which will also provide new homes to meet local needs. The new shop outlets and a hotel will help to strengthen the town centre, providing an extra £1 million local investment and 150 new job opportunities.

“We have consulted with local residents throughout the development of the proposals and have made a number of improvements since our exhibition in May.”

Solum Regeneration is a partnership between Kier Property and Network Rail and the plans are part of a £500 million scheme to develop seven train stations in London.

Plans for the project were put on public display in April.

Residents living nearby said the development, which will be of varying heights but include a 12-storey tower, will be out of keeping with the surrounding area and not benefit the local economy.

But Simon Rutter, director of Solum Regeneration insists the development will increase commercial spending in Walthamstow by £1million.

After residents raised concerns, the company reduced the scale and mass of the hotel building and the neighbouring residential block.

The plans also include more trees on the edge of the site neighbouring Priory Avenue.

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