Campaigners Celebrate Refusal of Mount Clare Plan
Planning Inspector rejects proposal for temporary accommodation
The Grade I listed building at the centre of the campus will not be affected. Picture: NTA Planning LLP/Specialist Real Estate Limited
March 13, 2026
Plans to convert part of the historic Mount Clare site in Roehampton into temporary accommodation have been rejected following sustained opposition from residents, councillors and community groups.
Mount Clare, a Grade I listed Georgian mansion set within landscaped grounds, was formerly part of Roehampton University’s halls of residence. After the university sold the site, the new private owner applied to use the existing buildings as temporary accommodation.
Wandsworth Council refused the application, arguing that the buildings were unsuitable for that purpose and that the proposals did not serve the best interests of the local area. AKA Capability LLP had claimed that the site could have provided much needed housing for up to 274 families who would otherwise have been homeless but objectors disputed that the proposed units would have been suitable for children.
The eveloper appealed to the independent Planning Inspectorate, prompting a fresh round of scrutiny. During the appeal, Fleur Anderson joined Roehampton ward councillors Graeme Henderson, Matthew Tiller and Jenny Yates in setting out residents’ concerns. Community groups also submitted objections, arguing that the plans would place pressure on local services, fail to meet housing standards and undermine the character of the area.
The Planning Inspectorate upheld the council’s refusal this Wednesday (11 March), meaning the development cannot proceed. Fleur Anderson said the decision reflected the strength of local feeling. “I spoke at the planning appeal because many people in Roehampton were deeply concerned about these plans and the impact they could have on the community,” she said. “I am all in favour of the more housing we desperately need, but not unsuitable mass single room housing in this area of Roehampton. This decision reflects those concerns and protects the area from an unsuitable development.”
Student accommodation blocks at Mount Clare campus, Roehampton. Picture: NTA Planning LLP/Specialist Real Estate
She also thanked residents who took part in the process. “This outcome shows the importance of residents making their voices heard. Thank you to everyone who contacted us or submitted comments on the planning portal. I will continue working with local councillors and the community to ensure that any future plans for the Mount Clare site are appropriate for Roehampton and benefit local residents.”
The refusal marks the latest chapter in a long-running debate about the future of the Mount Clare estate. While the site is no longer used by Roehampton University, its heritage status and sensitive setting mean any redevelopment is likely to face close scrutiny. Local councillors have said they will continue to monitor the situation and keep residents informed of any new proposals.
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