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New homes on Aintree Estate
A new London estate is set to replace two tower blocks, which had to be removed as the structure was not stable. Hammersmith and Fulham Council is going to erect 134 new homes on Aintree Estate. This will happen on the site of the 1970s Hartopp and Lannoy Points tower blocks.
The council owned 14 storey towers were found to have major structural concerns between 2017 and 2018. Design experts Arup also did a report in 2019. They gave the council a warning that an accidental extreme event might result in the collapse of a big part of the building.
In addition, a council fire assessment in 2019 found that there were major issues with the towers. There were other problems with leaks and dampness too.
Incredibly, the council knew the building was a fire risk in 2017. Fire wardens had to patrol the towers for 24 hours a day because of the danger.
Older fears
However, there were even older fears. The towers utilised the same ‘Large Panel System’ building technique employed on Ronan Point. In 1969 there was a gas explosion at the Canning Town block, causing a partial collapse. Seventeen people were injured and four others lost their lives.
The poor design and construction were blamed. There were big changes in the Building Regulations as a result of an inquiry into the disaster.
Sadly, it would cost too much to fix the blocks and 56 flats in each. So, knocking them down was the option that made the most sense. As a team with a lot of experience offering property management in Hammersmith and Fulham, we can understand this.
Demolition
In May 2021, the Hartopp and Lannoy Points towers were bulldozed. The project could take place because all the remaining inhabitants had left. At the time, there were 54 vacant homes, with 39 families retaining the right to come back in future.
The new structures to be built on the site will be as high as seven storeys. Also, 84% of the homes are going to be affordable. Plus, 10% of the flats here will come with disability access. The project will involve planting 24 trees too.
Aintree Estate’s new buildings got unanimous approval on September 21st at Hammersmith and Fulham’s planning committee meeting.
A closer look at the project
Now, let’s look more closely at the Hartopp and Lannoy Point project. For the council, this is a transformative design. It is one that will offer 134 new homes to Passivhaus Classic Standards. There is a commitment to homes for local residents. As a result, the development re-supplies 112 new homes for current estate inhabitants.
BPTW’s planning consultancy and architectural teams are operating side by side here so the new development provides the maximum value. Hartopp and Lannoy Point includes three apartment structures that range in height. They are between three and seven storeys and will be fronting a new community green.
The focus of the design is providing huge urban improvements to the estate via lower building heights. In addition, there will be new accessible pedestrian routes. Decent neighbourhood visibility will be present too. The design will overcome current accessibility and safety barriers. These were occurring because of the complex 1960s estate layout and sloping site.
The project’s design ethos
These are rooted in the council’s Net Zero Carbon agenda. BPTW had a focus on Passivhaus design principles. They include a fabric first strategy and an intensive form factor. It also includes using air source heat pumps and PV panels. Working in partnership with sustainability and energy consultants, the project will reach the zero-carbon goal. As a result, it will cut net carbon by 86%.
An emphasis on meaningful engagement generates a design capable of uniting the community. It also respects the council’s Co-Production and Defend Homes policies. For over a year, BPTW supported the Residents’ Steering Group to plan and sanction a Community Communication Charter. This was in collaboration with an engagement professional. Regular RSG meetings, workshops, and presentations gave members the chance to share local knowledge and ask questions.
The input of neighbours and residents were a driving force in shaping the aims and character of the project. This includes a harmonious design that unites old and new structures. It also has a central amenity area to reinforce the community. Finally, it addresses concerns of inclusivity, safety, and accessibility.
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