A controversial West London planning application has been given the go-ahead despite fierce opposition from local residents and organisations. The application was due to be voted on in June, however mysteriously disappeared from the planning agenda at last minute.
The site, 1 Burlington Lane, Chiswick, is just off the Hogarth Roundabout, between the A316 and A4 flyover. Currently on the site is an empty five-storey office block, surrounded by low-rise residential neighbourhoods.
The approved plans will see a ten-storey building built within Old Chiswick. The building will be mixed use with some retail on the ground floor and 132 flats, however only nine per cent (13 flats) will be affordable, far below London plan guidelines of 50 per cent. The retail space could be taken up by a shop, café or similar business.
It sits within two major conservation areas, and nearby numerous listed buildings. This includes the Chiswick House Conservation Area and the Old Chiswick Conservation Area.
Historic England objected to the application, claiming the scheme would cause “great harm” to the Old Chiswick Conservation Area. The organisation believes the development will dominate the “picturesque” cross river skyline.
Overall, Historic England argued that the scale of the development is not supported by local policy, and due to the likely impact on the “very special historical environment” and “some of the most sensitive assets in the borough” that it should not go ahead.
Hounslow Council’s planning department agreed there was harm, although described it as “less than substantial”, agreeing that some views, particularly from the river, would be affected. However, due to the new homes and public realm upgrades, it was argued the harm is outweighed by the benefits.
Local MP Andy Slaughter also raised concerns about the low offer of affordable housing. Despite accepting that the number is well below affordable housing policy, planning officers pointed to a viability assessment which claimed the scheme cannot afford more.
The original scheme, proposed in April 2024, offered no affordable homes, and as such 13 was considered to be an improvement by planning offices. Of the 13 affordable homes, seven will be offered at social rent, and six will be sold under shared ownership.
Some other key changes include the introduction of private balconies, public realm improvements such as new paving and trees and an entirely new building design. The developer will introduce solar panels, green roofs, heat pumps, and make a carbon offset payment of just under £125,000.
Committee members voted overwhelmingly in favour of the development, with only Councillor John Todd voting against. Due to the scale of the development, it is now subject to approval from the Greater London Authority before going ahead.
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