The future of four art installations on Columbia Wharf is at stake in a public inquiry that started this week.
Shiva Limited, the company responsible for the installations, was served two enforcement notices in 2019 and 2020, ordering their removal.
Hackney Council explained to a government-appointed inspector that the buildings along Regent’s Canal were “characterised by flat roofs” and Shiva Limited had failed to use “building materials in keeping with a conservation area” during construction.
The council argued that Shiva Ltd., embraced “material change of use of land” by using the building as an art gallery, cinema, and theatre at various points. Company owner Mr Gray claimed that the buildings along the Canal were “often seen as eye sores”. The Columbia Wharf project furthered Hackney Council’s own policy objective to support arts and culture, and The Antepavilion competition provided “realisation of experimental art installations” said Gray. He proposed that the installations provide a significant public benefit in allowing the public to have access to Columbia Wharf’s industrial architecture.
Ms Monika Paradowska, a local resident, expressed her support for Mr Gray. “For me, this place brings that kind of pride, that this is where I live … [it] makes you feel like I live in a cool place.”
A public inquiry investigating the planning permission notices will conclude on 22 October and the outcome will be announced to the public shortly after.
