Is latest Foxtons branch opening such a bright idea?

The 64th Foxtons branch opening in London and the home counties is about to happen, featuring its signature café-style layout, design and green frontage. But it’s not been plain sailing for the agent, which is busy readying the site for its inaugural opening; window displays were still empty and builders appeared to be still working on the site when The Negotiator paid a visit. Missing from the front is any of the signature illuminated signage that most Foxtons are famous for, after planners turned down the company’s original plans for the site (see below) although change of use was eventually granted. Lambeth’s Assistant Director of Planning & Development David Joyce said in May this year that the advertisement (as he calls the illuminated sign) would be an “unduly dominant feature in the streetscene” and “detrimental to visual amenity” which is possibly his convoluted way of say “too garish.” He also said the signage, which in the plans was fairly small by Foxtons’ standards, was “unlikely to preserve, protect or enhance the locally listed buildings and the neighbouring Albert Embankment Conservation Area.” The branch is also being created within what was the headquarters of homelessness charity The Big Issue, whose magazine sellers…