The London Borough of Merton is poised for a transformative year in 2026, with major housing projects, contentious planning battles, and long-awaited town centre regenerations set to define its future. Following a relatively quiet 2025, the coming year promises significant progress on key council ambitions, all while local elections in May could reshape the political landscape.
Housing and Regeneration: Building Amidst Challenges
At the heart of Merton's agenda is its commitment to deliver 400 new council homes, described as the first in a generation. Work began on the initial 93 properties in 2025 at sites including Farm Road Church and Raleigh Gardens Car Park, with construction continuing into the new year.
The borough's largest regeneration project, led by Clarion Housing, encompasses the High Path, Eastfields, and Ravensbury estates. Progress has been uneven, with High Path seeing accelerated demolition, Eastfields nearing its first completions, and Ravensbury facing delays due to updated energy standards. Financial pressures are substantial, with delays costing an estimated £333,000 per month, but the council insists the long-term goal of better social housing remains on track.
Key Developments to Watch
Several specific schemes will reach critical stages in 2026. In Colliers Wood, the 100% affordable development at 42 Station Road is scheduled for completion, offering 98 energy-efficient homes for social rent to help address a waiting list of over 10,500 households.
In Mitcham, the future of the Mitcham Gasworks site hangs in the balance. After approving plans for 626 homes with zero affordable units in December 2025, the council and developer St William are in talks with the Greater London Authority to secure funding for at least 146 social rent homes. A decision is not expected before April 2026.
Nearby, the Majestic Way scheme proposes 249 affordable homes but faces local criticism over the height of an 11-storey building, labelled an "eyesore" by some. A final planning decision is anticipated in 2026.
Colliers Wood may also see revised plans for new towers, after earlier proposals were rejected. Developer Criterion Capital is expected to submit an application for three towers (7-16 storeys) in 2026, despite local councillors criticising the firm for an outstanding £3m debt related to safety works on its existing Britannia Point tower.
Controversy and Conservation: Tennis, Pubs and Politics
The long-running saga of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) expansion onto the former Wimbledon Park Golf Club will move to the Court of Appeal in 2026. The Save Wimbledon Park group's challenge against 38 new courts and an 8,000-seat stadium was deemed worthy of review. With separate proceedings over a statutory trust scheduled for January, the dispute remains a major local flashpoint.
Meanwhile, the fate of Mitcham's fire-ravaged, Grade II-listed Burn Bullock pub grows more precarious. After the 2024 blaze, the building is under a dangerous structure notice, with the council considering further action, including a compulsory purchase, to prevent its total loss.
Politically, 2026 brings uncertainty. While the current Labour administration has enjoyed stability, the May local elections could dramatically alter the council's direction and its approach to these major projects.
Town Centre Transformations
After years of delays, Morden town centre regeneration received a £30 million boost in 2025. The council plans to use this funding to appoint a private development partner in 2026 to spearhead the wider 'Remaking Morden' programme, aiming for greener streets, improved public spaces, and a better retail mix. However, resident confidence remains low, compounded by the complexity of Transport for London's ownership of much of the transport hub.
As Merton looks ahead, 2026 stands as a pivotal year where promises of new homes and regeneration will be tested against financial realities, legal challenges, and the democratic will of its residents.
