The John Lewis Partnership (JLP) has secured planning consent on appeal for the redevelopment of a Waitrose store site in West Ealing.
A planning application to transform the existing Waitrose store and car park into 428 new homes, including 83 affordable rented homes, and a modernised store with parking, was submitted in summer 2023.
A government planning inspector gave the plans the go-ahead after JLP submitted an appeal in summer 2024 on the grounds of a ‘non-determination’.
Katherine Russell, director of build-to-rent at JLP, said: “We’re pleased that the Inspector has found in favour of the multi-million-pound investment that will create vital new housing and a modernised Waitrose store to serve a community we have been part of for decades.
“The decision underpins a clear policy commitment to supporting brownfield development close to key transport hubs. We will continue to work closely with local people to bring forward the development responsibly and ensure it delivers long-term benefits, both to residents and the wider community as a whole.”
Svitlana Gubriy, head of indirect real assets at Aberdeen Group, which has created a £500m build-to-rent joint venture with JLP, added: “We are incredibly excited about the future of the build-to-rent sector, which is undergoing a transformative shift. With the fundamentals of demand and supply supporting steady cash flows and sustaining long-term value of the sector, the focus is increasingly shifting on fostering community engagement and addressing local needs.
“What’s becoming increasingly important is social value with investors dedicating their efforts to develop residential projects that are not only financially successful but also cater to the needs of future generations. The recent developments in Ealing serve as a testament to this pivotal trend.”
