John Lewis gets green light for West Ealing resi development
The John Lewis Partnership (JLP) has been given the green light to redevelop its Waitrose store in West Ealing and build hundreds of new homes nearby.
The original application – which outlined the transformation of the existing Waitrose store and adjacent car park to create 428 homes – was originally made in summer 2023 but was initially rejected.
A government planning inspector has now confirmed the plans have been given the go-ahead after JLP submitted an appeal in summer 2024 on the grounds of a ‘non-determination’.
This decision follows the government’s commitment to build 1.5 million more homes over the next five years and its new National Planning Policy Framework, which gives “substantial weight to the value of using suitable brownfield land within settlements for homes”.
JLP said the move forms part of its long-term strategy to optimise its property portfolio and deliver much-needed housing. Once complete, the new residential community will also be supplemented by a new public square, a community facility, and commercial space.
Katherine Russell, director of build-to-rent at JLP, said: “We’re pleased that the inspector has found in favour of the multi-million-pound investment that will create vital new housing and a modernised Waitrose store to serve a community we have been part of for decades. The decision underpins a clear policy commitment to supporting brownfield development close to key transport hubs. We will continue to work closely with local people to bring forward the development responsibly and ensure it delivers long-term benefits, both to residents and the wider community as a whole.”
Svitlana Gubriy, head of indirect real assets at the Aberdeen Group, which has a £500m joint venture with JLP, added: “We are incredibly excited about the future of the build-to-rent sector, which is undergoing a transformative shift. With the fundamentals of demand and supply supporting steady cash flows and sustaining long-term value of the sector, the focus is increasingly shifting on fostering community engagement and addressing local needs.
“What’s becoming increasingly important is social value with investors dedicating their efforts to develop residential projects that are not only financially successful but also cater to the needs of future generations. The recent developments in Ealing serve as a testament to this pivotal trend.”