Plans to transform a disused synagogue and car park in Streatham into a major new housing development have been given the green light by local authorities.
Committee Vote Secures Development Future
Lambeth Council's Planning Applications Committee voted overwhelmingly in favour of the proposal during a meeting on November 18. All councillors present, with the sole exception of Councillor Scott Ainslie, supported the application submitted by developer Pocket Living. The decision paves the way for the comprehensive redevelopment of 35-37 Leigham Court Road and adjacent land.
Mix of Affordable and Private Homes
The scheme will deliver a total of 92 new properties, creating a significant boost to local housing supply. The breakdown includes 15 homes for social rent, 31 offered at a discount market rent, and 46 private residences. Notably, nine of the homes will be fully wheelchair accessible.
The discount units, branded as 'Pocket Rent Homes', are specifically designed as compact one-bedroom apartments for single occupants, each measuring 38 square metres. The private 'Pocket Sharer' homes are larger and feature en-suite bathrooms, with tenants sharing communal living, kitchen, and dining spaces.
Public Consultation Reveals Divided Opinion
The planning process ignited considerable local debate. During the public consultation phase, the council received 44 expressions of support alongside 43 formal objections. Both sides were represented at the crucial committee meeting last month.
Objectors raised significant concerns regarding the scale and proximity of the proposed buildings. One resident argued the development's height and density were "overbearing" and out of character with the surrounding area, which is predominantly three to four storeys high. They highlighted that parts of the scheme would be as close as 1.2 metres to a neighbouring property on Leigham Court Road, far below the 18-metre separation often considered good practice.
In contrast, supporters emphasised the urgent need for affordable housing. One key worker from King's College Hospital stated they had waited "years" for such pocket homes to return to the borough, describing them as offering a "realistic chance to stay in the area and build a future there".
Developer Highlights Social Value and Housing Need
Rachel Ferguson, Head of Development at Pocket Living, defended the project's contribution. She pointed out that, according to Greater London Authority (GLA) data, no new social rent homes had been started in Lambeth this year. "Our scheme is committed to providing 15 which should help to move 39 people out of temporary accommodation and into safe, permanent housing," she stated.
Ferguson also underscored the wider benefits, citing nearly £2.3 million in financial contributions secured through Section 106 agreements and the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), alongside on-site social value measures.
The site, which includes the former Leigham Court Road synagogue that closed in 2021, a public car park, and toilets, will now be comprehensively redeveloped. Pocket Living, established in 2005, specialises in building compact, well-designed homes for renters and first-time buyers, typically priced at around 80% of local market value. With planning permission now formally granted, construction on the Streatham site is set to proceed.
