In a significant boost for social housing in West London, Hounslow Council has granted planning permission for the construction of 124 new council homes in Brentford. The development, located at Brentford Lock West on Commerce Road, will consist of two residential blocks entirely owned by the council and dedicated to social rent, addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in the area.
Design and Layout of the New Development
The project will feature two distinct buildings, with one rising to 11 storeys and the other reaching 12 storeys. These structures will replace former warehouse sites near the Brentford Bus Depot, integrating seamlessly with the existing residential neighbourhood. The flats will be distributed as follows:
- 31 one-bedroom flats
- 57 two-bedroom flats
- 31 three-bedroom flats
- 5 four-bedroom flats
Importantly, 13 of these homes will be fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for residents with mobility needs. Each flat will also benefit from private balconies, offering outdoor space and enhancing the quality of living for future tenants.
Enhanced Safety and Sustainability Features
The original master plan for the site was approved several years ago but required a complete redesign to comply with new regulations under the Building Safety Act. This legislation, introduced in response to the Grenfell Tower fire, mandates that tower blocks include at least two staircases for improved fire safety. The previous design only provided one staircase and lacked the necessary space to incorporate a second, necessitating the overhaul.
Additionally, the act requires an all-electric energy strategy, which led to the allocation of more space for heat pumps. This shift underscores the council's commitment to sustainability and reducing carbon emissions in line with modern environmental standards.
Car-Free Approach and Community Amenities
The development adopts a car-free model, with no general parking provided for residents. To mitigate parking stress in the surrounding area, tenants will be prohibited from obtaining permits for the nearby Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ). Instead, the scheme prioritises active travel by offering 233 long-stay cycle parking spaces, encouraging greener transportation options. Four on-street Blue Badge bays will be available for disabled residents, ensuring accessibility.
Community amenities are a standout feature of this project. The central courtyard will include a giant slide for children, creating a playful and family-friendly environment. Two rooftop terraces will be equipped with planters specifically designed for growing food, promoting urban gardening and community engagement. A secure central courtyard will separate the two towers, providing a safe and communal outdoor space for all residents.
Public Consultation and Approval Process
During a public consultation, 383 nearby residents were engaged, resulting in only four objections and one letter of support. Concerns primarily centred on the height of the buildings and potential parking issues, but these were outweighed by the benefits of the development. On Thursday, February 5, Hounslow Council's Planning Committee unanimously approved the scheme, with all eight councillors present voting in favour.
This approval marks a pivotal step in delivering much-needed council housing in West London, combining modern safety standards, sustainable design, and innovative amenities to create a vibrant and inclusive community in Brentford.
