A DECISION to grant planning permission for a 24-hour self-storage facility in Lee has caused outrage among residents.

The Big Yellow Property Co was given the green light to redevelop the former United Dairies depot, on the corner of Baring and St Mildred's roads, on February 14.

But residents have already written to Prime Minister Tony Blair, Lord Falconer and Stephen Byers asking for Lewisham Council's decision to be reconsidered.

Once redeveloped, the site will contain a two to four-storey yellow warehouse with a floor area of 2,381 sqm, and three single-storey blocks, providing another 399 sqm.

Residents not only feel the development is out of keeping with the area, but that there will be an increase in noise and traffic in the area.

Spokesman Anne Marie Goodman said: "We feel the planned warehouse is wholly inappropriate in this location. Councillors and planners do not realise their decisions deeply affect people's lives and in this instance will destroy our quality of life.

"Permission was granted against massive local opposition. It would be much more appropriate for and would brighten up an industrial estate."

Lewisham East MP Bridget Prentice, who is supporting residents has written to Lewisham planning.

A council spokesman said: "The council's urban design officer was involved and it was felt the building was of an appropriate design and scale for the development of a substantial established commercial site at a prominent road junction".

A spokesman for the Big Yellow Property Co said: "The answer is we have got planning consent.

"We made an application and it was considered by the local authority.

"We do not believe it will have any detrimental impact on residents."

The company, which already has sites in Croydon, Wandsworth and Battersea, is set to open the Lee facilities this summer.

alaithwaite@london.newsquest.co.uk