Grosvenor Britain & Ireland has submitted a planning application for the Cundy Street Quarter, to develop a sustainable mixed-use neighbourhood in Belgravia, to Westminster City Council. Designed by architects DSDHA, the proposals are to replace five existing buildings with new housing including 93 affordable homes (39% by habitable room, including 44 social rented homes), specialist senior living accommodation for up to 170 people and 70 open market homes. These will be framed by new amenities and improved green spaces shaped by locals and introduce a flexible community hub, food store and cinema to the area. Better living standards and green spaces are at the heart of the design. All affordable homes will be up to 50% larger than existing homes, cheaper to run, and have dedicated communal gardens and play spaces. The proposals will open up new public routes across the site, which is currently closed off, and deliver new public green space. A €2.25m+ (£2m) investment in Ebury Square, 65 additional trees and 27,000ft² of green and blue roofs will enhance local biodiversity and reduce water consumption.
Fergus Evans, Project Director, Grosvenor Britain & Ireland said: “From the outset, we wanted to design a new part of the neighbourhood that would deliver more opportunity in Belgravia. Better homes, more open space, new facilities and a much greener environment. There were challenges raised and we know we didn’t get everything right. But that challenge has turned into a conversation, which not only improved these proposals but also helped transform how we engage with communities across our business. We’re grateful to all the residents and neighbours who contributed.”
All Westminster City Council residents in Walden House have a right to return to the new social rented homes on-site with the option to move just once should they choose. The business is committed to an open dialogue now, during construction and beyond to ensure the whole community is involved in the future of their neighbourhood.
Fergus Evans added: “Today, the value of open green space and need to respond to the climate emergency is clearer than ever. With larger, more energy-efficient homes, set in new green space open to all, these designs will help make Belgravia fit for the future.”
Local facilities, services and green infrastructure will also benefit from a €22.5m (£20m) Community Infrastructure Levy contribution. The new neighbourhood will support up to 260 jobs once complete and 125 jobs and apprenticeships, prioritised for Westminster residents, during construction.
