OVERWHELMING public support for its plans to turn the former Nestlé headquarters into housing is being claimed by Legal & General Property.
The company's claim for a 90 per cent positive response from people taking part in its public consultation on the scheme came as it submitted its formal planning application to Croydon Council.
The proposals will see the conversion of the building to provide 288 new homes with community and retail provision on the ground floor.
To add interest and variety to the skyline, the building will have a "stepping" effect to vary the height of the three tower blocks it will contain.
In addition aluminum panelling will be used to improve the appearance of the building and all apartments will have balconies and access to rooftop garden space.
Legal & General says its aim is to rejuvenate the building and provide sophisticated living and retail space in a key location for commuters, families and young professionals.
Charlie Walker, director at Legal & General, said: "Since first unveiling our plans and engaging in public consultation, we have worked hard, together with our architects and planning team, to ensure that the finalised proposals best meet the needs of the town centre.
"Through these carefully designed plans, we believe that we can give this building an exciting new lease of life and play our part in the wider regeneration of Croydon town centre."
Simon Wilkes, head of business space development at Legal & General Property, added: "The proposals for St George's House are designed to bring much needed high-quality residential accommodation to the centre of Croydon.
"The investment will also see a significant improvement in the public realm to create a more accessible and attractive civic space for residents and visitors to enjoy."
The council is hoping to make a decision on the application in March next year.
