John Lewis Partnership’s plan to turn Waitrose into rental homes approved
The John Lewis Partnership has received the green light from the council to transform its Waitrose site in Bromley into a new residential community of 353 rental homes and a modernised store.
In June, The John Lewis Partnership appealed to secure a decision by a local council over proposals to build new rental homes. It said it was appealing to Ealing Council on the grounds of "non-determination" after submitting plans for its development almost a year ago.
The London Borough of Bromley have since given a resolution to grant consent for the application, which had received 147 letters of support from local residents to exceed those who opposed the proposal. However, its original plans of creating 428 homes have been amended to 353.
The investment will see the local economy boosted by an estimated £70 million in extra council tax and local spending over the first 10 years, once homes are occupied.
The homes are purpose-built for renters with shared areas for fitness, home-working and socialising. Plans also feature new public green spaces, a cafe and amenity spaces for local community groups and schools to use.
Katherine Russell, the John Lewis Partnership’s Director of BTR, said: "We’re delighted that the elected members have agreed with the recommendations of their planning officials and after receiving significant support from the residents of Bromley.
"This now gives us the opportunity to enhance the local area, create vital new housing for the local people of Bromley and deliver a state-of-the-art Waitrose, which sits at the heart of the community. "
James Dunne, Head of Operational Real Estate at Abrdn, which has a £500 million joint venture with JLP to deliver around 1,000 new homes across three local communities, added: "Well-designed and professionally managed rental homes are a vital component in helping to solve the UK’s housing needs.
"Build-to-rent on brownfield sites such as this can also act as an anchor for town centre regeneration and wider community investment. We look forward to continuing working closely with JLP to move forward with our strategy."
