In a move poised to reshape Edgware’s landscape, property developer Ballymore has lodged plans for a pioneering redevelopment.
- The £1.7bn project involves demolishing the existing Broadwalk Shopping Centre, a bus station, and a garage to construct over 3,000 homes.
- The masterplan features 25 towers, student accommodation, a major supermarket, and increased commercial spaces.
- Environmental sustainability is central, with plans for zero emissions upon completion, backed by renewable energy initiatives.
- Public reaction is mixed, citing the project’s scale and density as significant concerns among local groups.
In a transformative urban development, Ballymore has submitted a planning application to overhaul Edgware’s Broadwalk Shopping Centre and surrounding infrastructure. This ambitious initiative envisions the construction of over 3,000 residential units, significantly altering the town’s skyline.
The design plans by Howells propose 25 towering structures, reaching up to 29 storeys, across a sprawling 10.3-hectare site. Included in these plans are 3,365 housing units, 463 spaces for student accommodation, and notably, 1,150 affordable homes aimed at addressing London’s housing demand.
A strategic component of the development is the relocation of the existing bus garage underground, which facilitates the creation of a new Deans Brook Nature Park. This park will open access to five acres of land that have remained off-limits to the public for nearly 100 years.
Moreover, the new town centre is set to expand the commercial space significantly. Plans include a larger Sainsbury’s supermarket, a leisure complex with a cinema, and purpose-built workspaces to support small and medium enterprises. Such developments aim to foster a vibrant community hub.
The project prioritises sustainability, committing to zero operational emissions. Innovations include the adoption of air heat pumps, solar panels, and green roofs, underscoring a commitment to environmental responsibility.
Notably, the scheme is a joint venture with Places for London, associated with Transport for London, emphasizing collaboration in modernising infrastructure and public spaces. Ballymore’s John Mulryan highlighted this as a generational opportunity to rejuvenate Edgware, enhancing its appeal while creating lasting economic and social benefits.
However, the proposal has drawn criticism from local campaigners, notably ‘Save Our Edgware’. They have raised concerns about the development’s density, labelling it as one of the most compact urban projects in the UK.
Should the application receive consent, the phased execution will commence, with the initial phase expected by 2031. This phase will incorporate several key elements: new residential buildings, retail outlets, leisure facilities, and community landmarks. Completion of the entire project is anticipated by 2036.
The Edgware redevelopment plan signifies a bold vision for the future, balancing modernisation with sustainability, despite some local opposition.
