Garages Rear of 45-59 Amwell Street, Soley Mews, Islington, LONDON, WC1X 9QQ

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• Whether the proposals would preserve the Grade II listed buildings (33–41 (odd), 43–55 (odd), 57–65 (odd) Amwell Street, 3–6 (consecutive) Lloyd Street, 66–72 (evens) Great Percy Street, Soley Mews Chapel Young Women's Christian Association, and the Young Women's Christian Association Alexander House), or any features of special architectural or historic interest, including settings, and whether the proposals would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the New River Conservation Area
• The effect of the development on the living conditions of occupiers of Great Percy Street and Amwell Street with particular regard to outlook and light

What decided it

The incongruous design, scale and form of the proposed commercial units would detract from and be discordant with the settings of the listed buildings and the character of the conservation area, and would significantly harm the living conditions of neighbouring occupiers through loss of outlook and overshadowing, with no convincing justification for this less than substantial heritage harm.

The benefits arising from four commercial units and minor biodiversity benefits from green roofs would not outweigh the less than substantial harm to the listed buildings and conservation area, and the significant adverse effects on neighbouring living conditions.