At Finefair Ltd we appreciate that a number of landlords rely on agents to handle letting their properties. It is not the only option though. Working with the local council may be a better choice in some cases, especially when it can offer guaranteed rent and no commission or management fees. We can help to arrange these services. As a result, we are a great alternative lettings agent in Bromley and other parts of the city.

There is a desperate need for different types of housing in London. This includes affordable starter homes, larger properties for families, and rental housing. There are lots of proposals to help create them. John Lewis Partnership is behind one of the most interesting ones. Most people wouldn’t expect it from a company they know primarily as a retailer. However, they are exploring a diversification into housing.

What are they proposing?

In June 2022 John Lewis Partnership announced their plans to enter the housing market. They had plans for three sites that would deliver around 1,000 new homes. It would see the development of shops in Bromley and West Ealing, as well as redevelopment of an old warehouse in Reading.

The company had a second announcement in December 2022 about the plans. They would move forward after agreeing a £500m joint venture with a global investment company.

Now they have revealed there will be a second consultation specifically for the Bromley part of the project. They want to get input from local residents and community groups. It will help to shape how they proceed.

The ideas for the Bromley site are already impressive. They would create around 350 new build to rent homes. These would have high quality designs as well as furnishings from John Lewis. There would be different size properties to cater for local needs. As an alternative lettings agent Bromley landlords can trust, we understand the need for more homes like this.

On top of the homes, the project would improve the Waitrose shop and add new amenities like a public piazza. There would also be new green space, cycling and walking routes, and gardens. It would reinvigorate the area and help to build a wonderful community.

The whole scheme has sustainability, wellness, and nature at its core. As a result, it could showcase how Brownfield redevelopments should prioritise these crucial things.

What will happen?

The responses to the second consultation will help to shape the plans going forward. However, there is optimism that everything will get the go ahead. Bromley has a goal to build 650 homes per year. However, the Draft London Plan sets a much higher target at 1,432. In both cases, up to 350 new homes on the Waitrose site would be a great contribution to this.

If this first project moves forward it could also start the process for the other two initial sites. John Lewis Partnership could then look at other developments. Ultimately they think they can deliver as many as 10,000 new homes in the next decade. It would make them one of the biggest landlords in England.

Speak to us if you need a lettings agent in Bromley

Finefair Ltd has been supporting landlords and investors for a long time. We work to provide the best results, with unbeatable rewards. This includes guaranteed rent and easy, convenient property management. Our work also helps local councils and people who need housing in those areas.

So, if you want to look at alternatives to working with a lettings agent in Bromley or other parts of London, speak to us. We can share our knowledge and give you recommendations.