News | Blenheim Place Approved

FCBStudios’ scheme for Hadley Property Group / Clarion to redevelop Blenheim Shopping Centre as a residential led mixed use scheme has been given the go ahead by Bromley Council.

The redevelopment of the Blenheim Centre in Penge, South London, moves the focus from parking and shopping to a lively neighbourhood with private and affordable housing, a range of commercial and community uses and inclusive and accessible public realm for the residents of Bromley.

Providing a third of the Borough’s annual housing targets, the scheme will include 230 dwellings in four blocks. Affordable housing will make up 35% of the scheme, with a 60/40 split between London affordable/social rent and shared ownership. Of the 1, 2, and 3-bedroom homes there will be a substantial number of family homes and 70% dual-aspect homes.

Building height varies from 3 to 16 storeys. The development will step down from the centre of the site, with the tallest element in the middle, mitigating impact on neighbouring residents as much as possible. The design of the proposed buildings has been informed by the existing character of Penge, incorporating elements typical of Penge’s Victorian heritage through materials like red and buff brick.

Jason Cornish, Partner at FCBStudios said “This major piece of regeneration will transform the centre of Penge. What we are delivering is a significant number of new homes in a landmark scheme for Bromley, with green space and amenities that will serve the local community. The housing and public square will replace the former carpark with improved, safer, well-connected spaces that will ultimately benefit the borough."

In addition to new homes, our proposals include approximately 2,600sqm of commercial space on the ground and first floors.  The existing supermarket will be reprovided as well as new units for a range of food and beverage options and space for emerging and independent retailers. A sustainable transport hub will support the car-free development with affordable, active transport solutions.

The new public square, play space and sequence of green spaces will connect the existing residential community to the High Street, enhancing and supporting the area’s changing needs.

Matt Griffiths-Rimmer, Director of Communications and Impact at Hadley had this to say: “Hadley and Clarion’s joint venture is a partnership formed to design and deliver transformational change in the parts of London that need it most. A new public square, the retention of key community anchors and a significant amount of affordable housing can now come forward, all in the heart of Penge.”

The proposals aspire to achieve a biodiversity net gain of 61% on-site, well above the 10% policy target set out by the GLA.

The proposed development achieves a total regulated CO2 saving of 73% which exceeds the 35% minimum set out London Plan.