Inspector gives go-ahead for 154 homes in Tanner Street

The application to redevelop the Century House site was unanimously rejected by Southwark's planning committee in November 2009. A public inquiry was held in July and now planning inspector John Papworth has published his decision.

Make Architects' scheme for London & Quadrant Housing Association includes a mix of private, intermediate and social rented homes. L&Q plans to use part of the development for its own offices.

The proposed development ranges in height from five to ten storeys. At the inquiry Southwark Council argued that the development would be "incongruous and over-dominant".

"The development would provide much-needed housing, and particularly family units, and would make efficient use of land, replacing unattractive buildings and uses that no longer sit well within this improving residential area," wrote Mr Papworth in his decision letter allowing L&Q's appeal.

He added that he considers the scheme to be of a "high quality of design" that would meet the aims of planning policy.