Climate Activists Rally to Save Nicholsons Centre: Why Preserving This Landmark Matters

Applicants seeking to redevelop the Nicholsons Centre are facing strong opposition from environmental groups. As the decision date approaches, scrutiny from community voices grows louder.

Areli, the developer behind the project, has submitted a hybrid planning application to RBWM, aiming to build 755 homes and over 11,000 square meters of commercial space. The proposal has sparked over 380 documents in the planning portal, including 27 letters of objection. Notable objectors include ECO Action for Windsor and Maidenhead and the Climate Emergency Coalition (CEC).

The CEC represents 10,000 supporters and has raised concerns about the project’s alignment with the council’s sustainability goals. Their main worry is the proposed complete demolition of the Nicholsons Centre, which goes against the guidelines outlined in the Sustainability Supplementary Planning Document (SSPD). This document emphasizes the importance of keeping existing structures to reduce carbon emissions—a critical point given that the construction sector is responsible for about 22% of the UK’s total emissions.

Dave Scarborough from CEC and Dr. Graham Owens, a trustee with engineering expertise, stated, “This issue isn’t just a minor detail; it’s key to lower emissions.” They searched the project documents for evidence that the application incorporated sustainability principles but found none.

In response to the opposition, the planning consultants for Areli stated that while some buildings would be preserved and refurbished, demolishing others is deemed necessary due to their poor condition. They argue that maintaining high energy efficiency is only achievable if certain structures are torn down.

Despite these assurances, the environmental groups urge for retrofitting rather than demolition, highlighting that this approach could meet housing demands while minimizing carbon footprints. They argue that during this climate emergency, we should explore sustainable options instead of following the traditional path of new construction.

Recent studies indicate a growing public interest in sustainability, with over 70% of people expressing concern about climate change and the impact of construction on the environment. Many social media conversations echo these sentiments, with hashtags like #RetrofitNotDemolish gaining traction.

Areli hopes to receive planning permission in a meeting scheduled for September 25, with demolition expected to start in early 2026. However, they’ll need to navigate significant community pushback to make their vision a reality.

The ongoing debate underscores the critical balance between urban development and environmental responsibility, reminding us that future construction practices must prioritize sustainability for the benefit of all.



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environment,planning