A group of leading architects on Sunday accused Prince Charles of using his royal position to attack plans to develop a former army barracks in London. Architects including Norman Foster, Zaha Hadid and Frank Gehry are among ten signatories to a letter criticizing the prince for speaking out against the plans to convert the site in a coveted part of London into luxury homes. Charles has urged planners to use traditional brick and stone as they convert the barracks into a hotel and 650 homes. The development has been designed by architect Richard Rogers, a member of the House of Lords, known for projects including London's Millennium Dome. Charles has often been outspoken on planning issues, criticizing as “monstrous” proposals made during the process to develop an extension to Britain's National Gallery. The royal has previously criticized Rogers over his proposals to develop a public square next to St. Paul's Cathedral. In their letter, the architects said the prince should send any criticisms to local planning officers, just like any normal member of the public.
