Updates on the redevelopment of the former Brentford police station and Albany Riverside were provided at the Brentford and Syon Area Forum meeting on Monday, 15 September 2025. Councillor Emma Yates shared the progress of these projects, among other planning application updates.
The former Brentford police station is slated for redevelopment including an Arts Centre. According to Cllr Yates, the planning application is progressing after a detailed pre-planning application process and is expected to be submitted to the local planning authority in the coming weeks.
The selection process for the operator of the Arts Centre will follow a phased approach, beginning with research engagement to shape viable developed delivery models. This includes drawing on the cultural strategy and local needs analysis to perform potential business models, conducting soft market testing with prospective operators to assess interest, viability and cultural alignments, and developing a service specification and launching a formal procurement process to appoint an appropriate operator. The early stage of this process is being led by the Council's culture team, working with other Council departments and specialist advisors. This process will ensure that the redevelopments align with the local needs analysis and cultural strategy.
Regarding the Albany Riverside redevelopment, Cllr Yates stated that the planning application is also progressing following a detailed pre-planning application process and will be submitted to the local planning authority soon. Demolition of Charlton House and Albany Parade is underway, with a demolition contractor on site.
The Council's Development team is progressing the revised planning application and will provide an update to Cabinet in October 2025.
Cllr Yates also provided an update on Eco World, Griffin Park, stating that a Planning Committee date was still awaited, but would possibly be heard in August 2025. A contractor has been appointed to replace the boundary fences and walls around the site, and letters are due to be sent to residents regarding this work.
The Brentford and Syon Area Forum meets regularly to discuss planning and regeneration, transport and infrastructure, and economic development in the area. The forum also provides an opportunity for public questions and feedback. Residents are encouraged to use the Let's Talk platform to stay informed and provide feedback on local developments.