John Lewis Partnership Gets Green Light for 24-Storey Rental Development in Bromley

30/7/24

The John Lewis Partnership has received the green light to transform its Waitrose site in Bromley into a new 24-storey residential community of 353 energy efficient, rental homes and a modernised store.

The decision, made on Thursday, 25 July, grants planning approval for a proposed development consisting of 353 new homes for rent, as well as providing a refurbished and extended Waitrose store at the site, where over 70 per cent of existing customer parking will be retained.

Councillor Alexa Michael, Chairman of Development Control Committee, said: "This development will make an essential contribution of much-needed housing in Bromley, while also providing a significant boost to the local economy. While finely balanced with many factors to consider, the proposal represents a clear net benefit to the borough and enhances local housing supply, which optimises land use on this highly-accessible brownfield site at the edge of Bromley's town centre."

The proposed development is adjacent to Bromley South station and will include improvements to landscaping and the surrounding public realm. Thirty affordable rented homes will be provided as part of scheme in line with the financial viability assessment. The plans also include significant cycle storage and limited blue-badge parking for new residents but is otherwise a car-free development. Shared spaces and communal facilities will also be included within the development, providing areas for residents and local groups to use and enjoy.

More than 250 responses were received in the consultation for the planning application. While the majority of feedback from residents was supportive, there was also local opposition to the scheme, including from the Bromley Town Ward councillors, which was considered as part of the committee proceedings.

Planning permission is granted subject to legal agreement and any direction by the Mayor of London. Works are currently scheduled to commence in 2025, with construction expected to be carried out over a 45-month period. The development is a Build to Rent scheme, with the new housing to be managed by John Lewis Partnership, who are bringing forward the development.

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 £500m joint venture with JLP to deliver around 1,000 new homes across three local communities, including Bromley, 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."

Source: John Lewis Partnership Media Centre, Councillors approve redevelopment of Bromley Waitrose site – London Borough of Bromley