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Go Ahead Given for Waltham Forest Estate

31.01.2003

The Greater London Authority (GLA) gave its backing this Tuesday (28th January) to an ambitious scheme by Forest Homes to redevelop the 900 home Beaumont Road Estate in Leyton.

The plans, designed by PRP Architects, had previously received unanimous approval from LB Waltham Forest’s planning committee after extensive public consultation and overwhelming support from residents. It was referred to the GLA under new powers given to London’s Mayor to consider, and where appropriate veto, planning applications for large schemes that are deemed to be “sub-regionally significant”.

The Beaumont Road Estate is currently dominated by three 20 storey tower blocks. Inappropriately, the blocks mainly comprise three-bedroom maisonettes; thereby housing families up to 20 storeys high. The new masterplan demolishes these blocks and creates new houses and flats within a traditional streetscape. The design of the buildings integrates the new estate with the surrounding area, increases permeability and creates two new London-style squares.

The whole process has been characterised by openness and accountability with a very high level of involvement by the residents. More than a dozen public meetings were held to agree design principles and residents had input on most aspects of the design, including house types, car parking, public and private spaces and security.

Forest Homes Head of Operations, Paul Hackett commented: “I cannot think of another project that has been subject to so much public consultation. Not only did we do this formally, we also consulted on our proposals on the doorstep. This proved invaluable in developing a master plan that addresses residents’ needs and aspirations”

PRP Director Andy von Bradsky said: “The current design of the estate alienates the residents from their neighbours in Leyton. Our plans tie it in with the surrounding area, increase accessibility and integrate it with the rest of the community.”

In addition to physical improvements a number of other initiatives will be launched at Beaumont estate over the coming year. These include the establishment of a Home Office funded Street Warden scheme, a jobs and training programme, a service to support fledgling businesses and construction of a new computer training facility. Start on site is planned to take place this autumn.