John Lewis wins approval for West Ealing housing plans

The John Lewis Partnership (JLP) has been successful in its planning appeal to redevelop Waitrose West Ealing and build hundreds of new homes. 

A government planning inspector confirmed the plans had been given the go ahead after JLP submitted an appeal in summer 2024 on the grounds of a “non-determination”. 

The application to transform the existing Waitrose store and car park was made in summer 2023. As the retailer’s second largest store in London, it will help deliver 428 homes, including 83 affordable rented homes, as well as a modernised store with parking. 

Once complete, the new residential community will also boost the local economy, with the addition of a new public square, community facility, and commercial space. 

The planning inspector’s decision follows the government’s commitment to build 1.5 million homes in the next five years and its new National Planning Policy Framework, published in December, giving “substantial weight to the value of using suitable brownfield land within settlements for homes”. 

In January, the government also revealed additional plans to deliver more houses on land near commuter train stations to kickstart economic growth. 

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 the Aberdeen Group, which has a £500m 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.”