A transformative £10 billion project to build 4,000 new homes in West London has passed a crucial planning stage, with just one final approval now standing in its way.
Council Backing for Major Regeneration
Kensington and Chelsea Council's planning committee voted decisively to approve its section of the vast Earl's Court development on Tuesday, December 16. The proposal passed with a vote of four in favour and zero against, with only Councillor Toby Benton abstaining. He expressed concerns that the scheme might not provide sufficient housing and facilities for existing local residents.
This approval follows a similar green light last month from the neighbouring borough of Hammersmith and Fulham, which signed off on the parts of the project within its boundaries. The overall plan, one of the largest in the capital, will now be sent to London Mayor Sadiq Khan and the Greater London Authority for the final sign-off due to its immense scale.
What the Development Will Deliver
The scheme, proposed by the Earl's Court Development Company (ECDC), promises a significant overhaul of the 40-acre site, which has been largely vacant since the demolition of the former exhibition centres between 2015 and 2017.
For Kensington and Chelsea alone, the project will provide:
- 1,400 new homes, with 35% designated as affordable housing.
- 95,000 square metres of office space.
- New cultural venues, green spaces, a nursery, and food and drink units in the initial phase.
Across the entire site, shared with Hammersmith and Fulham, the vision includes 4,000 homes, a cinema, a community centre, and other leisure facilities. The developers state the project will create around 12,000 jobs and is scheduled for completion in phases by early 2043.
Community Reaction and Concerns
While the scheme has supporters, including the Earl's Court Youth Club which has been offered a new space, it also faced vocal opposition during the planning meeting.
Objectors raised several key issues:
- Scale and Height: Critics argued the proposed towers are "too big, too dense and too tall," potentially becoming the highest in the borough.
- Transport and Infrastructure: Francesco Zibellini, Chair of the Earl's Court Society, contended that predicted daily journey numbers were "understated" and would far exceed 4,000. A manager from Brompton Cemetery warned of serious strain on pathways and a potential £1.8 million funding shortfall to cope with increased visitors.
- Environmental Impact: Others highlighted worries about loss of daylight and added pressure on local services.
In response, Rob Heasman, Chief Executive of the development company, emphasised their community engagement and commitment to building safe, secure homes. He stated, "These buildings will be constructed with care."
Council Leader Elizabeth Campbell welcomed the decision, highlighting the area's rich cultural past and the desperate need for new homes. "We're so excited about what the future now holds," she said.
With local council approvals secured, the fate of this landmark West London regeneration now rests with City Hall.
