The construction phase of the first 226 new homes at Ebury Bridge has started as the site has now been handed over to contractor Bouygues UK.
The plans see the full redevelopment of the current estate and the creation of 781 high-quality, sustainable homes. This includes 239 council homes and 53 per cent of all homes will be affordable.
More than 110 households have now been temporarily relocated and seven empty blocks have been demolished to prepare for the construction. During this initial phase, the first taller buildings will be built, with views over Battersea Power Station.
The majority of returning residents will have an opportunity to move into the first two new buildings.
This is an almost car-free development, with disabled car parking only. Both pedestrian and cycle transport will be a top priority with more than 2,000 cycle spaces for residents.
The newly built homes will use 90% less carbon than the existing estate and greywater recycling will be used for household functions, in line with Westminster City Council’s plans to be carbon net zero by 2040.
There will be 781 homes, there will be a new community hub, nursery and fitness centre for residents and visitors. Plus, there will be four high-quality public squares created with water and play features.
The green spaces will have enhanced lighting for security and an on-site management team.
Around 270 new trees will be planted, as well as the retention of mature existing trees.
An extended high street with new local shops and cafés has also been approved and there will be new places to work including flexible workspace on Ebury Bridge Road and at the new northern gateway.
Cllr Heather Acton, Westminster City Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Regeneration, said: "Our plans for Ebury Bridge have been formed in close partnership with the residents of the estate and we have made sure their views are reflected. To now be able to hand over the site to our contractor Bouygues UK and begin the construction phase is very exciting. Ebury Bridge represents the highest number of new affordable homes being built in Westminster in a generation. I’m looking forward to watching the progress of the construction and continuing to work closely with Bouygues UK during the process.
Rob Bradley, CEO of Bouygues UK, commented: "Bouygues UK is delighted to start work on this exciting project which will bring huge benefits to the community of Ebury Bridge Estate. As well as providing high-quality new housing, we will be bringing added value by employing and training local people throughout the construction phase. This project continues our longstanding relationship with Westminster City Council and we look forward to the residents moving into their new homes in early 2024."