U+I has announced that its joint venture project with Brockton Capital in Kensington is likely to be delayed due to planning hold-ups.
Last September, mayor of London Sadiq Khan approved the scheme at Newcombe House, W11, by Notting Hill station, which includes a 17-storey tower with 55 new homes, of which 35% are affordable, as well as a medical surgery, offices and shops. This was despite the local council having rejected the plan.
However, a holding direction was issued by the secretary of state for housing, communities and local government in November following a request by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea to review the mayor’s decision and consider calling in and taking over the application. A conclusion was expected in December but this has yet to be forthcoming, meaning the anticipated start on site at the end of March will be delayed. U+I has decided not to include the scheme as in its development and trading gain for 2019 as a result.
The company said: “The project remains a key regeneration opportunity within the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and both Brockton Capital and U+I will continue to pursue all routes to commence work as soon as practicable.”
Matthew Weiner, chief executive of U+I, said: “The delay at Kensington Church Street is frustrating. However, we remain focused on delivering our target £45m-50m development and trading gains for FY19. This is subject to our remaining identified projects and some smaller projects completing before year end, as currently expected.”
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