John Lewis Wins Appeal to Build 428 Rental Homes West London

The John Lewis Partnership (JLP) has secured government approval to build hundreds of new rental homes above its existing Waitrose store in West Ealing, west London, following a successful appeal after Ealing Council failed to decide on the plans. The redevelopment includes 428 homes, with only 83 classified as affordable, falling short of the London Plan's 35% affordable housing requirement, and features four tower blocks ranging from 11 to 20 storeys high. The project is part of a £500 million joint venture between JLP and investment firm Aberdeen Group, aiming to deliver 10,000 new homes over the next decade, including other sites in Greater London and Reading. Despite opposition from local residents and campaign groups concerned about building height and affordable housing levels, the government planning inspector sided with JLP, emphasizing support for brownfield development near transport hubs like West Ealing Crossrail station. JLP has pledged to work closely with the community to ensure the development delivers long-term benefits and modernizes the Waitrose store. The decision aligns with the broader government agenda to accelerate housing development and reduce delays caused by local opposition.