There is an acute shortage of housing within London and the existing stock is becoming more unaffordable. In addition, planning policy encourages high density development on brownfield sites that comprise a sustainable location such as this. Therefore, it was considered that houses did not make the most effective use of the site.

There is currently no purpose-built shared accommodation within the locality and co-living schemes offer an opportunity to deliver high density housing which meet the needs of city living. This type of housing is attractive to young professionals and key workers as an alternative to traditional house shares / HMOs, as all utility bills are included within the monthly rental.

The proposed development does not include resident’s car parking, with the exception of two on-site disabled parking spaces. Should the application be granted consent, it is likely that a legal agreement (known as a Section 106 agreement) will be utilised to remove future residents’ eligibility to apply for parking permits.

On this basis, there should be no pressure on existing parking infrastructure.

The operator of the scheme is called InHouse. The scheme includes a reception and concierge area at the entrance, which will provide on-site management, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

In addition, a Management Plan will be submitted as part of the application which will provide details on how the operator will manage the development. This will include information on matters such as the maximum number of occupants, security, the fair and proper use of facilities and respecting neighbours.

Aquila Properties Ltd will appoint a Financial Viability Consultant to assess whether the development can support a contribution to affordable housing within the borough. As expressed within planning policy, purpose-built shared living typically provides a financial contribution to the Local Planning Authority for them to delivery affordable housing offsite.

The built form of the locality is characterised by a mix of building types and styles and as such, there is flexibility to deliver a building which comprises a mix of architectural styles. The proposed building is of modern construction with active frontage at ground floors and functional spaces to suit future residents’ needs, whilst also respecting the character of the surrounding residential area.

Indeed, the indicative scheme follows the height and form of the newly constructed 4 storey residential buildings and is able to step-up to 5 storeys due to its corner location. This also respects the form of more modern development within the area, such as that along Eythorne Road.

In respect to the Vassall Road Conservation Area and surrounding Listed Buildings, a Heritage Statement will be submitted to accompany the application which will assess the development’s impact upon these heritage assets.

Fortunately, the Site is relatively unconstrainted from an environmental perspective, with no known environmental constraints which would jeopardise the delivery of this scheme. In support of any future planning application, the Applicant will provide assessments in respect of land contamination, trees, ecology, air quality, flood risk and drainage. In addition, the application will be supported by assessments considering the impact of the development in respect of noise, daylight and sunlight surveys to ensure the amenities of future residents and neighbouring occupiers will be protected in this regard.

The proposed development will deliver a variety of social, economic and environmental benefits making efficient use of this vacant, highly sustainable brownfield site.

Social benefits

The social benefits primarily involve the delivery of homes to individuals who are looking for more affordable ways of living whilst building relationships with other similar individuals and forming a community.

A number of local jobs will be created during the construction process. It is likely that Lambeth Borough Council may include an obligation to provide local training and offer apprentices an opportunity to learn and broaden their experience through working on the scheme during construction.

Environmental benefits

The site will deliver green and ecological benefits by providing a comprehensive landscaping scheme for the site, incorporating hard and soft landscaping. 10% biodiversity net gain will also be achieved in comparison to what is currently onsite.

The development will incorporate energy reduction features across the site, such as ground or air source heat pumps and solar photovoltaic panels.

Finally, the scheme will be designed to meet BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards in accordance with the Lambeth Local Plan policy.

Economic benefits

A number of jobs will be created during the construction of the development. Once operational, the increase in residential accommodation will lead to increased expenditure in shops, services and facilities within the area as well as more Council tax.

Construction activities and their resulting impact (including effect on the amenity of residents) are factored into the planning process. The development team will prepare a ‘Construction Management Plan’ following any grant of planning permission in order to reduce the impact construction will have upon the lives of residents and ensure the safety and operation of Christ Church Primary School.