Chelsea Barracks Development Finally Moves Forward with 515 Homes Approved
After years of delays, the Chelsea Barracks development in West London is set to see significant progress with newly approved changes that will allow for the construction of up to 515 homes. Westminster City Council has greenlit modifications to the plans, aiming to accelerate the completion of this long-stalled project in the heart of Belgravia.
Key Changes to the Development Plan
The council's Strategic Planning Committee approved a major shift in the project's fifth phase. Instead of the previously consented 20 townhouses, three blocks comprising 87 apartments will now be built. This adjustment increases the total number of homes permitted on the site from 448 to 515. Councillors hope this change will make the development more attractive to builders and expedite its finalization.
Property developer Qatari Diar, which purchased Chelsea Barracks in 2008 for nearly £1 billion through its investment vehicle Project Blue, is behind the scheme. As part of its Section 106 agreement, the final phase (Phase 6) is slated to deliver 126 affordable homes, a sports centre, and medical facilities. Additionally, 119 market-sale homes will be constructed in Phase 6.
Community Concerns and Delays
Local residents have expressed frustration over the prolonged delays. Geoff Simpson, a resident living opposite the barracks since 1988, urged the council to hold developers accountable. At a recent committee meeting, he emphasized that the community has been waiting years for the promised social benefits, including affordable housing and amenities.
Knightsbridge and Belgravia ward Councillor Rachael Robathan acknowledged the significant delays, noting the urgent need for affordable housing in London. She stated, "Residents have been sitting there with the hoarding outside their homes for years, and that's going to continue." However, she expressed optimism that the revised plans, which are easier to deliver and sell, will lead to quicker completion of Phase 6.
Financial Contributions and Conditions
Under the new plans, Qatari Diar must make a payment in lieu of £3.6 million to the council's Affordable Housing Fund and £655,413 to the Carbon Offsetting Fund upon starting Phase 5. To date, the development has already provided 182 homes and contributed £78 million to the affordable housing fund.
Despite concerns, the committee decided it could not enforce a deadline for Phase 6 delivery. However, an Early-Stage Viability Review condition is in place to ensure timely progress on Phase 5. Residents also raised objections regarding increased building heights, housing affordability for locals, and the potential for units to remain vacant.
This approval marks a critical step forward for a project that has been unfinished for years, promising much-needed housing and community facilities in one of London's most prestigious areas.
