As Woody says, a long story. But there is no automatic protection for houses outside conservation area and owners are entitled to knock them down if they want. Lewisham did not regard these houses as worthy of preserving so now they must sit there as an eyesore.

The planning applications were fought by Woody and many other local residents but despite a valiant fight we lost when the planning inspector ruled that a development could go ahead (although the other that was considered at the same time was too massive). It was a close fight and considering we were up against the top planning barrister in the country, who I see has more recently been appointed a high court judge and received a knighthood. Woody and I both acted as amateur lawyers in this week long inquiry, cross-examining witnesses as well as giving evidence. But we were up against a vastly more experienced and well funded team, particularly considering their barrister.