Plans for an innovative cancer research centre have been put on hold because its neighbours are not happy with parking arrangements.
Sutton Council refused to grant planning permission for a cancer research centre at Royal Marsden Hospital because residents complained it would lead to a loss of 70 parking spaces.
The main aim of the Centre for Molecular Pathology would be to look at new research findings on the causes of cancer and turn them into better diagnosis, treatment and ultimately prevention.
A Royal Marsden spokesman said it would “drive innovation and research into cancer, providing rapid benefits for patients”.
But a development control committee at Sutton Council voted to defer the decision until February next year, when it hopes Royal Marsden Hospital will come up with a solution to the problem.
The decision comes after several residents complained to the council about the proposed loss of parking spaces at the hospital.
Belmont and South Cheam Residents’ Association, as well as several residents from roads surrounding the Royal Marsden Hospital, complained the new centre would lead to a loss of parking spaces, light and privacy and a increase in traffic, air pollution and on-street parking.
Furzedown Road resident David Hicks was worried about inadequate parking provision at the hospital impacting on nearby roads.
He said: “The hospital does a great job, but taking away parking spaces is not good for hospital patients or residents.”
A council spokesman said: “The development control committee was not satisfied with the proposed parking arrangements and voted to defer the decision.
“A revised application will be considered in February.”
A spokesman for the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust said: “We do acknowledge and understand the concerns of residents regarding the proposed loss of car parking spaces at our Sutton site.
“The loss is due to the building of the Centre for Molecular Pathology.
“We have been working hard to come up with a solution to the reduction in spaces, and have already identified other areas on the site where we plan to find new parking spaces.”
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