John Lewis gets green light for its BTR scheme

John Lewis Partnership has secured planning permission to transform its Bromley Waitrose site into a new community of 353 rental homes and an upgraded supermarket.

The project, set to deliver a £70 million boost to the local economy, prioritises residents and workers in the area for the new homes.

The development will also include public green spaces, a café, and community facilities.

The firm’s director of BTR, Katherine Russell, said: “We’re delighted that the elected members have agreed with the recommendations of their planning officials and after receiving significant support from the residents of Bromley.

“This now gives us the opportunity to enhance the local area, create vital new housing for the local people of Bromley and deliver a state-of-the-art Waitrose, which sits at the heart of the community.”

Importance of build-to-rent developments

James Dunne, head of operational real estate at abrdn, the joint venture partner with John Lewis, emphasised the importance of build-to-rent developments in addressing the UK’s housing crisis.

He said: “Well designed and professionally managed rental homes are a vital component in helping to solve the UK’s housing needs.

“Build-to-rent on brownfield sites such as this can also act as an anchor for town centre regeneration and wider community investment.”

John Lewis says the decision reinforces its long-term plans to manage thousands of JLP branded homes.

‘Much-needed housing in Bromley’

Bromley’s chair of the development control committee, Councillor Alexa Michael, said: “This development will make an essential contribution of much-needed housing in Bromley, while also providing a significant boost to the local economy.

“While finely balanced with many factors to consider, the proposal represents a clear net benefit to the borough and enhances local housing supply, which optimises land use on this highly accessible brownfield site at the edge of Bromley’s town centre.”

While there was local opposition to the scheme, most residents supported the plans.

Construction is expected to begin next year and be completed within 45 months.

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