The Hounslow planning committee has approved modifications to the redevelopment plans for Brentford Police Station and the Watermans Centre.
The S73 application introduces minor changes to the previously consented application (ref: P/2017/3372) to address legislative changes and viability challenges. The development will transform a brownfield site in Brentford town centre, delivering 219 new homes, an increase of 26 from the original plan, along with 192 square metres of Class E floorspace and public realm improvements. It also facilitates the relocation of the Arts Centre to a sustainable location on the town’s edge.
The project will deliver 330 homes across two linked sites, including 57 affordable homes on the Police Station site, representing 20 per cent of the total accommodation by habitable room, consistent with the Original Permission. The Financial Viability Assessment confirms this as the maximum reasonable amount of affordable housing. The development promises high-quality accommodation, minimal impact on the area’s appearance, and improved living conditions for neighbouring residents. It will also enhance the local road network and provide significant public benefits.
While the proposal may cause less than substantial harm to heritage assets, it is considered acceptable given the public benefits. The development is highly sustainable, achieving a minimum 72 per cent reduction in emissions compared to a Building Regulations Part L-compliant baseline. The design quality, townscape impact, and spatial composition remain consistent with the Original Permission. The modest height increase, mainly at Block E, fits within the approved massing framework, maintaining the development’s coherence and urban grain.
The architectural approach ensures a cohesive riverside residential development with a strong identity through refined proportions and high-quality detailing. Enhanced public realm and landscaping proposals improve permeability, connectivity, and amenity, benefiting the High Street frontage, Watermans Park interface, and riverside setting.
The project optimises the development capacity of an underused brownfield site, balancing heritage concerns with public benefits.
We previously covered this here.
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