Westminster Council has approved the redevelopment of Huguenot House, despite concerns raised by residents about the impact of the project. The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting on Monday, 15 September 2025.
The council's decision comes as it revises its City Plan to introduce a 'retrofit first' planning policy. This policy aims to prioritise the reuse and adaptation of existing buildings to minimise demolition and reduce carbon emissions.
Councillor David Boothroyd, Cabinet Member for Finance and Council Reform, introduced the report on the redevelopment, noting the building had been neglected for many years. He stated the council's commitment to supporting residents, highlighting that the proposal from Altius included additional and larger homes, with 50% affordable housing and contributions to economic growth in the area.
However, Dr Peter Kertesz addressed the Cabinet on behalf of residents, outlining concerns about the impact of moving elderly residents out of their homes and communities. He questioned the contractor's experience and the need for a hotel in the area, suggesting the council's motivations were purely financial.
Gerald Almeroth confirmed the council's rehousing policy, which includes a comprehensive support package. He acknowledged the concerns about the human impact and reiterated the importance of residents being part of the process.
Councillor Geoff Barraclough, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, acknowledged Dr Kertesz's comments, stating he was moved by the position of residents and leaseholders. However, he emphasised the need for the building to generate revenue to fund other services, such as youth and social workers.
Councillor Ryan Jude, Cabinet Member - Climate, Ecology, Culture and Air Quality, asked how discussions on embedding in the retrofit policy have progressed. Gerald Almeroth responded that developers were asked to find the best solution for the site within the parameters set, while also looking at climate production and carbon targets. He noted that none of the developers came forward with a complete retrofit plan, partly due to the building's fabric, but there are commitments to reuse the concrete basement.
Councillor Nafsika Butler-Thalassis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Voluntary Sector and Lead Member SEN and Learning Disabilities Champion, inquired about the support given to leaseholders. Gerald Almeroth advised that leaseholders receive the market value of their homes, a disturbance payment, and a loss payment of 10%. They are also supported with moving costs, stamp duty, and a wraparound service to help find new properties or tenancies.
The Chair confirmed that leaseholders retain the right to return to the future development, with the same principles as regeneration schemes.
The timeline for the redevelopment is envisaged to be three to five years, but on-site work is not expected to commence for several years.
The Cabinet agreed to the recommendations set out in the Public reports pack 15th-Sep-2025 18.30 Cabinet, acknowledging the challenges faced by residents and committing to working with them throughout the process.
