A society has warned that a number of historic buildings in London could be under threat as a result of the proposed new railway line serving London and the South East.

The Victorian Society is concerned about a number of historic buildings under threat of demolition in Victoria and Wimbledon due to the new plans.

In consultation plans revealed by Transport for London (TfL), major construction work will need to take place around Victoria railway station and major areas of Wimbledon town centre, including the Centre Court Shopping Centre and various commercial and residential properties.

The Victorian Society has said a late 19th century hotel/apartment building including the Shakespeare pub in Victoria is under threat along with the former 17th century coaching inn now Prince of Wales pub in Wimbledon.

“The Society appreciates that Crossrail 2’s huge advantages for London cannot be achieved without demolishing some buildings,” said Christopher Costelloe, Victorian Society Director.

“However, every effort must be made to use those sites which would minimise Crossrail 2’s impact on London’s unique and historic environment.

“Our suggestions would ensure that Crossrail 2 brings people to places that are distinctive and that retain their best historic buildings.”

However, Michele Dix, TfL’s Managing Director for Crossrail 2, responded by saying that TfL was looking to minimise the impact on local residents and communities.

“While some buildings, including some Victorian buildings, are shown to be within proposed Crossrail 2 worksites they may not necessarily be needed during construction,” said Michele. 

“Demolition is always our last resort and where buildings are needed we will try to ensure the façade is retained to maintain the character of the local area. 

“Safeguarding does not give us permission to build the railway and no final decisions have been made.”

Stephen Hammond, MP for Wimbledon, Raynes Park, Morden and Motspur Park, agreed that Crossrail 2 would bring many benefits, but said that he and many residents had been frustrated by the lack of detail in the Crossrail 2 plans.

“I am also dismayed that only one option has been consulted upon,” said Stephen. 

“I want to ensure that Crossrail 2 brings as little disruption as possible to Wimbledon during its construction and maximises the potential for redevelopment locally.

“I believe that TfL’s current route option does not look like the best solution for Wimbledon and will lead to the destruction of much of the town centre.”

In its consultation plan, TfL believes its plans will lessen the impact on residential homes in the area.

“We believe the better option is to build along the south side of the station so that impact on existing residential properties is reduced,” said TfL.

“Doing this will not necessarily mean that we will need to demolish all of Centre Court.

“Our initial assessments suggest that we may be able to retain around half of Centre Court and options are being considered to reinstate the rest of the site before the station opens in 2030.”

The closing date for comments on plans for Crossrail 2 is 8th January 2016 and the consultation report will be published in spring 2016.