Brent Council has approved the construction of 61 new social rent homes at the Havenwood Garages site in Wembley, marking a significant step towards meeting the borough's affordable housing needs. The scheme proposes 100% affordable housing, which qualifies for the fast-track route, avoiding the need for a viability assessment.
The Planning Committee granted planning permission for application 25/1069, which involves demolishing existing garages and building five residential blocks opposite 1-9 Havenwood, garages at Davy House, Einstein House, Faraday House, car parks next to Darwin House and Harvey House, and the electricity sub station next to Currie House, Darwin House, Kingsgate, Wembley. The development will provide 61 homes for social rent, along with relocating the existing substation and associated amenities.
The approval is subject to a legal agreement that secures planning obligations, including:
- Financial contributions towards a Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ) and Healthy Streets improvements.
- A 'car-free' agreement for future residents, restricting on-street parking permits.
- Employment and training opportunities for Brent residents.
- Biodiversity net gain and tree planting initiatives.
The committee report highlighted that the development aligns with London Plan Policy H1 and Brent Policy BH1 by providing new homes to meet identified needs within the borough.
The development comprises five infill residential blocks, respecting existing building heights and improving activity and permeability within the estate. While separation distances from existing properties do not fully comply with Brent's SPD1 document, the impact on neighbouring amenity is considered acceptable given the scheme's benefits.
The proposal is car-free,
except for disabled bays, with contributions towards a CPZ and Healthy Streets improvements. To enforce the 'car-free' agreement, permits to park on Stadium event days can be withheld from new residents, with this restriction communicated through the lease and tenancy agreements. A financial contribution of £30,000 towards the introduction of a CPZ into the Chalkhill area is also required to support the development.
The financial contribution of £60,578.50 towards Healthy Streets Improvements will fund improvements to the double mini-roundabout junction of Forty Lane/Blackbird Hill/Salmon Street/Tudor Gardens, which is considered difficult and unsafe for pedestrians. The Council has aspirations to improve the Healthy Streets rating of the junction and has commissioned a study into signalising the junction with the introduction of pedestrian crossing facilities.
The application aims to achieve a 65% reduction in carbon emissions, with a financial contribution to achieve net-zero. The scheme includes tree planting and a Biodiversity Net Gain of over 10%.
Prior to a material start, the developer is required to inform Brent Works in writing of the projected number of construction jobs and training opportunities and provide a copy of the Schedule of Works. They must also prepare and submit for the Council's approval an Employment Training Plan for the provision of training, skills and employment initiatives for residents of the Borough relating to the construction phase of the Development.
Councillor Robert Johnson, a Ward Councillor of Barnhill, declared a personal interest as he had received briefings on the scheme from MTVH. He remained present for the discussion, stating he could consider the application impartially.
The Planning Committee granted planning permission subject to the conditions outlined in the Public Reports Pack.
