Former part of the Archway Methodist Central Hall, at the junction of Archway Road & St. John's Way, Islington, LONDON, N19 3TD

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• The effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the area, with particular regard to the preservation or enhancement of the St John's Grove Conservation Area, and the effect on the non-designated heritage asset of the Archway Methodist Central Hall
• The effect on the proposed development on highway safety, with particular regard to measures for deliveries, servicing, and refuse collection
• Whether the proposed development would incorporate sufficient provision for access by cycle
• The effect of the proposed development on the living conditions of neighbouring occupiers, with particular regard to noise and disturbance, and daylight and sunlight
• Whether the proposed development would be inclusive and accessible
• Whether the proposed development would incorporate sufficient sustainable design and green infrastructure measures
• Whether the proposed development would achieve required fire safety standards
• Whether the proposed development would provide sufficient contributions towards local infrastructure and training requirements

What decided it

The lack of clear and considered information regarding the specific impacts of the proposal on the heritage significance of the Conservation Area and the non-designated heritage asset, combined with multiple other substantial policy conflicts relating to highway safety, cycle provision, noise, accessibility, sustainable design, fire safety, and planning obligations, meant that the harm would outweigh the public benefits and the proposal would be more harmful than the fallback of the building's ongoing vacancy.