The Canonbury Society has joined forces with other local amenity societies to consider the new proposals to redevelop 85 Canonbury Road (formerly occupied by Highbury Ford) into 99 residential units. In November 2010, the original proposal for 132 units was dismissed after a public enquiry. Arguments against the original scheme centred on its height, bulk and density which would have obliterated many views of the Grade 2 Listed Union Chapel.

The new scheme is, in our view a welcome improvement on the original, but there is still some way to go. We have sent in our views following an exhibition of the conceptual proposals and look forward to examining a fully worked up planning application which Notting Hill Home Ownershp, the develepor will make in December or January 2012.

The other societies involved are: The Upper Street Association, The Highbury Fields Association, The Islington Society, The Islington Archaeological and History Society and the Estorik Collection.

The Website editor regrets that she cannot upload  the revised plans due to a problem with internet access. They will be on the site as soon as it is possible.  Below is a link to the Canonbury Society's letter in response to the revised plans.

Letter to local Dialogue

Copy of new proposal

The Canonbury Society has expressed concerns over the dilapidated state and neglect of the Tower's adjacent theatre which has lain empty for eight years. The theatre is a much loved and missed local amenity. For more details please read Peter Gruner's account of the campaign to rescue this beautiful 16th century building.

We celebrated our Fortieth Year at our annual Summer Garden Party on Sunday 26 June. It was a spectacular event blessed with perfect weather, a delightful venue, delicious food and members dressed in their summer whites. The party was held at George MacIntosh's home. He was a most welcoming and gracious host and we thank him for lending us his garden and house for such a lovely occasion.

We also enjoyed the music provided by Nigel Harris and his String Quartet.     

Wednesday 25 May at 7.30 pm (doors open at 7 pm)  at St Stephen's Church, Canonbury Road