John Lewis Partnership has won approval for a build-to-rent housing scheme, which had previously stoked controversy.
The retailer’s proposals were backed by the London Borough of Bromley in southeast London, which agreed with a recommendation from planning officers to give a resolution to grant consent.
The scheme, which had originally prompted some local opposition, involves the transformation of the Partnership’s Waitrose property in Bromley into 353 rental homes and an overhauled store.
Objectors had raised concerns about the height of the buildings and the proportion of affordable housing in the development.
However, the application drew 147 letters of support from local residents, which the Partnership said exceeded those from opponents.
JLP said that locals will be prioritised for the new homes, which will be developed, owned and managed by the retailer. It said the investment will boost the local economy by £70m in extra council tax and local spend in the first 10 years once homes are occupied.
John Lewis Partnership director of build-to-rent Katherine Russell 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.”
Joint venture partner Abrdn head of operational real estate James Dunne said: “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.”
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