The John Lewis Partnership has received approval for its first rental housing development, highlighting a significant step in its strategic plans.
- The project involves constructing 353 rental homes atop a Waitrose store in Bromley, London, after initial consultations dating back to June 2022.
- Despite receiving some local opposition regarding the height of the structures, the scheme was approved with the promise of 10% affordable housing.
- John Lewis’s Director of Build-to-Rent, Katherine Russell, expressed satisfaction with local support and the project’s potential community benefits.
- The London Borough of Bromley’s approval is a pivotal moment for John Lewis’s housing initiatives, marking a £500 million investment move.
The John Lewis Partnership has secured a major milestone by obtaining approval for its flagship rental housing scheme in Bromley, London. This development, which includes 353 rental homes and an updated Waitrose store, marks an essential phase in the partnership’s expansion strategy. The London Borough of Bromley’s decision to grant consent follows extensive consultations initiated in June 2022, illustrating John Lewis’s commitment to involving community stakeholders.
During the planning phase, some local homeowners and councillors raised concerns about the height of the proposed towers, advocating for additional affordable housing units. Despite these objections, the plan proceeded with the assurance that 10% of the homes will be designated as “affordable”, priced below 80% of the market average. This aspect highlights John Lewis’s attempt to balance development ambitions with social responsibility.
Katherine Russell, Director of Build-to-Rent at John Lewis, noted the significant support from Bromley residents and praised the project’s potential impact on the local community. Her statement emphasised the partnership’s goal to enhance the area’s housing stock while revitalising the Waitrose store to serve as a community hub.
This development approval is a key component of John Lewis’s broader £500 million investment into rental housing, reflecting a strategic shift towards property and residential markets. The Bromley project signals the beginning of this ambitious plan and sets a precedent for future projects.
Overall, the successful approval by the planning officials in the London Borough of Bromley underscores the John Lewis Partnership’s capability to navigate complex regulatory environments and align substantial new developments with community needs.
The approval of the rental housing scheme in Bromley signifies a key advancement for John Lewis’s strategic property initiatives.
