Earlier this month AFC Wimbledon urged fans to appeal to the two leading candidates for the mayoral election after a planning application was called in by Boris Johnson.
Now, Mr Goldsmith has issued a statement outlining his stance on the proposed stadium, which will also see the construction of over 600 homes.
“Having followed the progress of the Galliard Homes development for a number of years, I am conscious that their scheme also contributes to addressing the housing shortage that is currently facing London.
“I have also been approached by local residents who are concerned by the scale of the development, but Plough Lane has been a sporting stadium site for over 100 years and I am sure that issues of traffic management and local disruption can be addressed.
“As Mayor, I will press for a solution as soon as possible, recognising not only the needs of Wimbledon AFC, but other stakeholders in the local area.”
However, in a statement to petitioners, Mr Goldsmith highlighted that the Labour candidate, Sadiq Khan had previously written to AFC Wimbledon urging the club to review its application at the Plough Lane site.
In the letter it stated he was concerned by the impact the development could have on local residents.
Merton Borough Council granted planning permission for the development in December but the project is now back up for debate following Mr Johnson’s decision last month.
“London is the greatest city in the world but I believe it can be even greater,” Mr Goldsmith added.
“If elected, I will work tirelessly to achieve this, including tackling London’s housing crisis.
“Developments such as the Plough Lane project can form a vital part of this plan.”
Development Finance Today has contacted Mr Khan, however he has yet to comment by the time of publishing.
Leave a comment