Housing secretary Robert Jenrick has granted consent for Avanton’s £250m urban village in Richmond, south-west London, almost two years after initial plans were lodged.
Avanton acquired the 4.5-acre former Homebase in 2018. Initial plans were refused by Richmond Council, leading to a call-in from the mayor of London.
The developer has since increased the number of homes from 385 to 453, raising the affordable housing contribution to 40% by habitable room. Sadiq Khan approved the plans in October last year. However, the scheme was referred to the secretary of state following a large number of local objections.
Jenrick’s final rubber stamping will see development kick off this summer, with an estimated 30-month construction timeline.
Khan said: “This site is well-connected, under-utilised – previously developed land that is exactly the kind of site we need to intensify if we are to develop in a sustainable manner, protect the green belt and deliver the homes Londoners need.”
To send feedback, e-mail emma.rosser@egi.co.uk or tweet @EmmaARosser or @estatesgazette
