Harrow (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Harrow Council launches a consultation for Phase 2a of the Grange Farm Estate redevelopment, aiming to deliver up to 50 new affordable homes in South Harrow.
Residents are asked to provide their opinions online during the consultation, which runs from February 13 to March 13, 2025.
The reconstruction of the estate is anticipated to bring over 500 new houses, a new community centre, public spaces with play areas, and better pedestrian routes, according to material on the Harrow Council website.
Older 1960s buildings will be replaced in Phase 2a by two brand-new residential complexes that are modeled after the neighborhood.
The remaining homes will be made available under the London Living Rent program, which is based on one-third of local household incomes.
Phase 2a will contain 36 council homes for current secure renters. According to the council, this will assist renters in saving money for a down payment on a property of their own.
Private balconies, ground-floor gardens, and maintained common areas with fresh plantings and trees that have been kept will all be features of the new complex. There will also be play areas and zebra-crossed, pedestrian-friendly public areas.
There will be 31 parking spots available to residents, including five designated for those with disabilities, and safe bike storage.
Wheelchair-accessible ground-floor apartments, dual-aspect layouts for natural light, and safe shared walkways with access code entrance are all features of the inclusively designed residences.
Harrow Council’s pledge to build up to 50 new affordable homes—36 of which would be for council tenants—as part of the Grange Farm Estate redevelopment shows a proactive approach to addressing affordability.
According to Harrow Council, the proposals have been influenced by prior discussions, citizen input, and the Grange Farm Steering Group.
Prior to the anticipated submission of a planning application in the spring of 2025, the consultation will continue until March 2025. Locals can use MyHarrow Talk to share their opinions online.
What measures are being taken to ensure the new homes are affordable for residents?
Based on standard procedures in affordable housing projects, a number of steps are taken into consideration to guarantee that the new homes in the Grange Farm Estate redevelopment are within the means of the local population.
A portion of new construction can be required to be used for affordable housing by enacting inclusionary zoning laws. This strategy guarantees that some of the residences are priced lower than the going rates.
Developers may be persuaded to incorporate more reasonably priced units into their developments by providing subsidies or other incentives. Developers that reach certain affordability goals may be eligible for tax credits or lower fees.
By separating land ownership from housing, community land trusts (CLTs) can lower expenses and guarantee long-term affordability. In order to keep housing costs down, CLTs frequently lease the property to homeowners.