Planning permission has been granted by the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities & Local Government for the redevelopment of the Newcombe House site.

The proposal by developers Brockton Capital and U+I entails the demolition of the existing 1960s tower and the comprehensive redesign of the one-acre site. The applicant's architectural response includes the creation of high-quality buildings of varying heights, surrounding a new public square that will feature a mix of complementary uses. These include a south-facing pedestrianised public square, independent stores and cafes, a standalone office building, pedestrianised passages, a new 14-storey apartment building, and on-site public benefits such as affordable housing, an NHS GP surgery, and step-free access to the Notting Hill Gate underground station.

According to the Government Planning Inspector's Report, the development will create a new urban quarter with a vibrant, attractive, safe, and permeable amenity space. It will also feature a visually engaging, slender, and elegant tower. The project will incorporate renewable energy technology and carbon reduction systems, aiming to achieve a policy-compliant "Excellent" rating under the BREEAM UK New Construction 2018 rating system. Carbon emissions will be minimised on site, and an off-setting payment will be paid to secure zero carbon status. The development will provide 55 new homes, 23 of which will be delivered on-site as social housing.

The redevelopment of this prominent site, located in central London, has received support from various stakeholder groups, including the Mayor of London, Transport for London, the NHS, and local residents' groups. The proposal has been lauded for its well-designed public realm, mix of uses, and extensive public benefits.

Image: CGI of the Kensington Church Street frontage looking north, with the tall office and residential building on the north-east corner of the site where it meets Notting Hill Gate - newcombehouse.london 2020