Kensington and Chelsea Council has proposed a multi-million pound refurbishment programme for the World's End estate, Chelsea's largest council estate, with works totalling an estimated £20 million. The plan includes replacing kitchens and bathrooms, roof renewals, lift replacements, and upgrades to the heat network to comply with new regulations.
Details of the refurbishment programme
The World's End estate, a brutalist social housing complex built between 1969 and 1977, comprises around 750 homes across seven high-rise tower blocks. The proposed works are divided into several phases, with the main refurbishment of homes estimated to cost around £16.5 million. This phase would begin in March 2028 and is scheduled for completion one year later.
Additionally, a £3.8 million lift renewal programme is estimated to start in February 2028. Over half-a-million pounds has also been earmarked for electrical and fire safety improvements. The council has stated that tailored support will be available for residents most affected by the works, including respite and decant options.
Leaseholder contributions and heat network upgrades
Leaseholders will be required to contribute towards the repairs, although the exact amount has not yet been confirmed. The heat network on the estate will also be upgraded to ensure compliance with new Ofgem regulations, which mandate that everyone on a heat network be billed individually for their energy use.
A report to the council's Housing and Communities Select Committee noted that while building metering exists across World's End, "the age and condition of the existing system" means it cannot currently support individual heat billing. The report adds, "It will not be easy to upgrade the system at Worlds End, and is estimated to require significant investment."
Impact on leaseholders and the estate's future
The report highlights concerns for leaseholders, stating, "This is an area of concern for many leaseholders, as the work needed would generate significant leaseholder recharges." Despite these challenges, the council describes the programme as a major long-term investment.
"The World's End Estate programme represents a major long-term investment in the estate’s fabric, safety and infrastructure," the report concludes. "With over £20million of planned investment, extensive resident engagement already undertaken, and clear delivery plans in place, the programme offers a significant opportunity to improve homes, enhance resident safety and secure the future of the estate for decades to come."
