Waltham Forest has ambitious plans to transform the borough. They are currently working on a new Local Plan that will guide development up to 2035. Crucially, it identifies new infrastructure projects and sites for potential redevelopment. One project is awaiting approval, but has been recommended for a green light. Let’s take a closer look, then you can talk to us if you need help from a lettings agent in Waltham Forest.
The project
In 2023, proposals by the council and developer London Square for Lea Bridge got approval. The plan was to build two high rise towers with 342 new homes. The site is on Argall Way, close to the station, so it is a very central area with good amenities.
While they got the green light, the project did not materialise. Now, there are new plans with some interesting changes. Most notably, the heights of the two towers have increased by three storeys each. So, they will now be 29 and 26 storeys. The increase will allow the creation of 45 more homes, taking the total to 387. They will be one and two bed properties.
Interesting here is the homes will be affordable. Waltham Forest Council is working hard to deliver more housing for locals. It will help address their waiting list and also reduce the amount of money they spend on temporary accommodation. These 387 properties will be a mix of London affordable rent, social rent, and shared ownership.
It won’t just be housing on the site either. The plans also feature eight new commercial units between the buildings.
The response
As a top option for a lettings agent in Waltham Forest, we love to see projects like this. It’s always great to see new developments to create housing in London.
However, it hasn’t been all positive responses to the proposals. The Council said they got eight formal objections. Much of the negativity is regarding the height of the high rises. Critics have said the towers are “monstrous” and will be an “eye-sore”.
Waltham Forest responded to the criticism of the height and design. They said the site is in an area where high rise construction is acceptable. In addition, they said the proposals have an “exemplary design”.
Another critique is the potential impact on local infrastructure. Some locals fear the new residents will put “undue strain” on schools, healthcare, and transportation.
Again Waltham Forest spoke in support of the plans. They said the impact on infrastructure will be alleviated because of contributions from the developers. They will provide £211,980 to improve healthcare provision. Additionally, they will give £118,000 for schools.
The project has been recommended for approval. Waltham Forest Council’s planning committee will now review the proposals and then decide whether to approve it. The expectation is this will happen early in February.
Do you want help from a lettings agent in Waltham Forest?
Finefair Ltd can give clients a unique collection of services. We appreciate that investors and landlords want different things. So, we aim to cater for every strategy. Most importantly, we can do guaranteed rent, tenancies, management, and portfolio reviews. We’ll work to make sure you have everything in place to get a great income from assets in London.
So, if you want a lettings agent in Waltham Forest or other areas in the city, you can speak to us. We can advise you about our services and the benefits of working with us.
