Mayor Boosts Social Rented Homes in Kensington and Chelsea Scheme

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has approved a new development in Notting Hill after intervening to increase the number of social rented and other genuinely affordable homes, in his latest effort to use the planning system to tackle London’s housing crisis.

The application to redevelop Newcombe House in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea was refused by the local council in March, before the Mayor took over the application later that month. The borough has consistently failed to meet targets for new and affordable homes; last year no affordable homes were given planning permission by the council.

Through his takeover, Sadiq has secured amendments to the plans that increase the level of affordable housing from 17 to 35 per cent. Two-thirds of these homes are now at social rent levels, with the remaining capped below London Living Rent levels.

The development will also include a medical centre, step-free access to the nearby Notting Hill Gate underground station and a new public square with permanent pedestrian and cycle access.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “Since taking office, I’ve been clear I will use all the levers at my disposal to increase the supply of council, social rented, and other genuinely affordable homes that Londoners need across the capital.

“Having considering all the evidence available to me – and following hard work by my planning team to increase the level of affordable housing – I have decided to grant permission for this development.

“What’s more, the development will also include important new step-free access to Notting Hill Gate station – a major improvement benefitting local residents and visitors coming to enjoy this vibrant and exciting part of the capital.

“London’s housing crisis won’t be solved overnight – but I hope this will send a clear message that I expect developments to include more genuinely affordable housing and other benefits for local people.”