Major new project set up to protect London’s spectacular views south of the river

South Londoners are fighting to save the views from the Horniman Museum in Forest Hill
Fiona Simpson26 November 2017

The National Trust has given south Londoners a glimpse into the future of the capital’s skyline from one of the city’s “finest unprotected views”.

Just four stunning viewpoints of the capital’s spectacular skyline in south London hold a protected vista status compared to nine north of the Thames.

Overall, The Greater London Authority have protected 27 views of the capital.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the vistas gaining protection.

Studio Octopi's admission to an exhibition showing how the skyline from the Horniman could look in 80 years
National Trust

However, the imbalance sparked a north vs south row last month with campaigners calling on the organisation to even things out.

The National Trust are asking Londoners to submit their favourite views in a bid to have them saved from regeneration.

Collective Works LLP show how they feel regeneration could change the skyline
National Trust

A spokesman said: “Ultimately, the views suggested by the public will be assessed by a panel of experts and a proposal will be submitted to the Mayor of London as the new London Plan goes out for consultation.

“The project is part of a wider National Trust initiative about urban views and urban design, which will run over the coming year and will include an exhibition and publication about the history of London cityscapes from Canaletto to the Camera-phone.”

The first of a series of exhibition surrounding the Points of View initiative is currently on display at Forest Hill’s Horniman Museum.

Illustrator Agustin Coll said: "As towers keep shooting up in London, panoramic views are becoming increasingly rare and valuable for the local community"
National Trust

The imminent diorama shows a number of submissions by artists showing how the impressive view from the museum’s gardens could change over the next 80 years.

Sam Bompas, from design agency Bompas and Parr, said of exhibition: “The installation brings together contrasting artistic points of view in one engaging, thought-provoking and interactive installation.”

One quirky image shows pop-art style figures dropping yellow and pink skyscrapers in front of the skyline.

Another is entitled “obstructed reality” with the words “private view” covering images of iconic skyscrapers.

The exhibition is available to view until 4.15pm on Sunday.

Suggestions can be sent the the National Trust via Twitter @NTLovesLondon.

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