Developers win planning permission appeal, leaving Holborn Studios facing an uncertain future.
Once frequented by artists such as Oasis and Madonna, the largest photography studio in Europe will be demolished and turned into apartments, after an appeal undertaken by The Planning Inspectorate granted planning permission to GHL (Eagle Wharf Road) Limited.
The planning battle between the developers and Holborn Studios has been the subject of two judicial reviews since 2015. Once deemed the “Abbey Road of Photography” by photographer Helmut Newton, the historic site’s potential demolition has caused public outcry, with over 700 objections against the demolition currently lodged with Hackney Council.
In the latest ruling, the planning inspector acknowledged the Holborn Studios’ “iconic” contribution to the photography industry, but ultimately decided in favour of the proposal, saying that the planned demolition would “greatly reveal” the remaining buildings in the area.
The plan includes 50 new apartments and retains around 5,500 square metres of commercial floor space. Under the scheme, parts of the original building will be kept.
The studio has been at the site for more than 35 years.
Anna, a local resident, said: “It is so sad that everything here is turning into apartments.”
Billy McCartney, Managing Director of Holborn Studios, was approached for comment, but declined.
