New Plans Submitted for Church Street Site A: A Step Closer to Affordable Housing and Community Facilities
The Church Street Partnership, a collaboration between Westminster City Council and Mount Anvil, is making significant progress on the much-anticipated redevelopment of Site A. The Partnership has submitted updated plans to the local planning authority (LPA), following extensive consultations with residents, stakeholders, and local businesses. These updates, classified as a ‘Non-Material Amendment’ (NMA), represent minor changes that do not significantly alter the previously approved designs but bring several key benefits.
Enhancements in the Revised Plan
The revised plans introduce several positive adjustments, including the addition of social rent homes and an increase in the number of three-bedroom family units. These changes will help meet the pressing demand for affordable housing in the area. If approved, the NMA will not only increase the overall number of homes but also reduce the carbon footprint of the development, aligning with broader environmental goals.
Key Features of the Updated Scheme
- Basement Reduction: The size of the basement will be reduced, resulting in a decrease in CO2 emissions.
- More Affordable Homes: The number of social rent homes will increase by two, bringing the total number of homes to 430.
- Improved Community Facilities: The size of the library will be expanded from 605 sqm to 662 sqm, providing a more substantial resource for residents.
- Enhanced Accessibility: New resident facilities will be fully accessible to all.
The Partnership remains committed to engaging with the local community throughout the process, particularly concerning the layout and design of the new library and the upcoming demolition activities. Demolition of the existing buildings on Site A is scheduled to commence later this year.
Leadership Comments on the Progress
Cllr Noble expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “The Church Street community desperately needs the new homes, Library, and improved market facilities that Site A will bring. I am delighted that the scheme is progressing with the Church Street Partnership. The hard work the community and the Partnership have invested in this scheme is starting to bear fruit.”
Killian Hurley, Chairman of Mount Anvil, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We’re laser-focused on delivering much-needed quality, affordable housing on Church Street. This important milestone is one of many steps we’re taking together with our partners, Westminster City Council. We’ve already learned plenty from listening to the local community – and we’ll continue to work collaboratively to deliver a positive impact in the Borough.”
The LPA is expected to make a decision on the application within the next four weeks.
For more detailed information on the Church Street redevelopment application, click here.
[Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons]
