Residents have say on building

11:16am Wednesday 15th November 2000

RESIDENTS are being given a say in the future of some of the most endangered listed buildings in London.

The group of buildings, including the stable block, walled garden, chauffeurs cottage and smoking room are all that is left of the magnificent 18th century Foots Cray Place, which burnt to the ground in 1949. They are to get new lease of life.

Bexley Council owns the buildings, now part of Foots Cray Meadows, and is looking for ways of using the exciting and innovative ideas which would both restore and preserve buildings.

In recent years, the group of buildings has appeared on English Heritages list of Londons most endangered listed buildings.

The council has put together a draft planning brief for the buildings which looks at options for their future.

The buildings and walls were designed by architect Isaac Ware who was commissioned in 1754 by wealthy London pewterer Bouchier Cleve to build him a Palladian villa.

In 1949, fire broke out in the house and it was so badly damaged, it had to be demolished. At the end of the Second World War, the house and grounds were bought by Kent County Council

l If you would like to have your say about the future of the remaining buildings, you can get a copy of the draft planning brief from Bexleys development and planning office on 020 8303 7777 ext 4856.

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