During ongoing discussion about the redesign, many residents have said they'd like to see Peckham Arch removed. In 2016, 80% of residents asked did not want to see the arch retained. There was positive support from the community to drastically improve or completely remove it.
Removing the arch would make more space for:
- more development of the adjacent sites
- more employment and business opportunities for local people, encouraging a diverse mix of uses in and around the square
- a 'wrap around' façade with active frontages facing into the square, instead of the rear of buildings
- better natural surveillance in the evening, making it feel safer and encouraging better use of the space at all times of day
- a better view, making the square feel better connected to the high street
- the ground to be levelled off for better and safer cycle access
