Comedians James Acaster and Nish Kumar Raise £40K to Combat Peckham Redevelopment
Comedians James Acaster and Nish Kumar have come together to support local campaigners fighting against the redevelopment of the Aylesham Centre in Peckham. Their efforts aim to resist plans for nearly 900 homes, of which only 12 percent would be affordable.
Fundraising for Community Action
In early September, Acaster, known for co-hosting the Off Menu podcast, and Kumar, a prominent TV presenter, took the stage at Peckham Levels. Their performance was a fundraising effort for the Aylesham Community Action group.
The campaign is collecting funds to hire a barrister. This legal representation will be crucial during the upcoming Planning Inspectorate hearing, set for the last week of October. So far, the campaign has successfully raised £41,000, aiming for a total of £50,000.
Background of the Development Proposal
Last year, Berkeley Homes submitted a planning application to Southwark Council for 867 new homes on the Aylesham Centre site on Rye Lane. Initially, the proposal included 35 percent affordable housing, meeting council regulations. However, the developer later reduced this figure to only 12 percent, which has alarmed local residents.
In May, Berkeley announced its decision to bypass the council’s planning committee and seek approval directly from the government’s Planning Inspectorate. The developer cited delays from the local authority as the reason for this move.
Community Response to Housing Crisis
The proposed development has faced significant opposition. Local Labour councillors and MP Miatta Fahnbulleh have all urged Berkeley to reconsider its plans. Cllr Helen Dennis, Southwark’s Cabinet Member for New Homes, noted the council’s reconsideration was prompted by the reduced affordable housing offer.
During a planning meeting in July, the council rejected the scheme. A planning officer’s report indicated that the low level of affordable housing would not provide sufficient public benefits to justify the harm caused to the Rye Lane Peckham Conservation Area.
Recent Protests and Community Action
On September 9, over 600 people protested against the UK government’s approach to the housing crisis. The rally was organized by SHAPE Coalition, calling for 50 percent of new developments on private land to be dedicated to council housing, with a demand for 100 percent on council-owned land.
As the campaign against affordable housing cuts continues, the community remains vigilant in its fight for accessible housing in Peckham.
