Community organisations in a deprived area of West London are facing potential relocation to vacant units beneath a major flyover, as part of a vast housing development that has left locals feeling sidelined.
Plans for a new neighbourhood spark community fears
The Kensal Canalside proposal, which was approved by Kensington and Chelsea councillors in November 2025, promises 2,500 new homes and a range of amenities. However, the scheme requires the demolition of Canalside House, a council-owned community hub on Ladbroke Grove.
Campaigners had previously warned the council against selling the asset to developer Ballymore, which is progressing the scheme with Sainsbury's, fearing the permanent loss of vital community space.
Contradictory messages over a future home
During the planning meeting last November, representatives for the applicants stated that the Canalside House tenants would be temporarily moved before being given a 'designated space within the scheme' itself. This was to be secured through a Section 106 agreement.
However, a council paper published before Christmas revealed that Maxilla Hub, a space under the Westway about a ten-minute walk away, has been identified as a potential new permanent home for the displaced groups.
Tom Charles, an editor at local blog Urban Dandy and former Canalside House volunteer, said the messaging is "contradictory". "As usual, the community is sidelined and treated with contempt while decisions are made to them, never by them," he stated.
A vital hub for a vulnerable community
Canalside House is home to a diverse range of organisations serving one of the borough's poorest areas. These include the Hodan Somali Community and the French African Welfare Organisation. The centre also provided crucial support during and after the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017.
Independent councillor for St Helen's ward, Emma Dent Coad, said she was "very angry" at being kept in the dark about the potential move to the Westway. "It's back to the old days before Grenfell," she added, referencing a time when councillors were excluded from key decisions.
Council and developer respond
A Kensington and Chelsea Council spokesperson confirmed that the approved scheme includes provision for permanent replacement community floorspace on-site. They added that the council is working on a draft Section 106 agreement for temporary relocation and is also speaking with tenants about a "more immediate permanent move" to Maxilla Hub, an option some have reportedly shown interest in.
The spokesperson stressed that no final decisions have been made and that any move would be taken in consultation with the tenants. A decision on the potential relocation to Maxilla Hub is expected in early 2026.
