Tower Hamlets (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Legendre UK wins £21m contract with Clarion Housing Group to deliver main works construction of the Lemon Tree House redevelopment in London’s Tower Hamlets.
Due to structural and fire safety concerns, the seven-story Lemon Tree House, which houses 49 residences, is undergoing renovations.
The French contractor Legendre’s UK division will replace it with a nine-story structure, bringing the total number of social rent apartments to 58.
Heat pumps from communal air sources will be used to improve sustainability and energy efficiency.
After demolition is finished and Gateway 2 is approved by the Building Safety Regulator, main construction is expected to start in October, with practical completion expected in the winter of 2027.
By offering affordable housing alternatives, the project hopes to support the borough’s initiatives to alleviate the housing scarcity and enhance the quality of life for locals.
The renovation will improve the neighborhood and community facilities by adding landscaping and related amenity space in addition to residential housing.
Following the recent contract signing, construction is planned to start soon and be completed within a certain timeline that takes into account the housing needs of the local community.
After resolving issues with public infrastructure and services and guaranteeing adherence to local laws, the project was granted the required planning clearances.
Richard Cook, chief development Officer at Clarion Housing Group, said:
“Appointing Legendre UK is an important step forward in achieving our goals for transforming Lemon Tree House into a safe, modern development that will provide much-needed social housing in Tower Hamlets.
We look forward to seeing work commence on-site and delivering the affordable homes that will continue to serve the community for generations.”
Thomas Vandecasteele, Managing Director, Legendre UK:
“We are delighted to collaborate with Clarion for the first time on this exciting redevelopment project.”
The renovation of Lemon Tree House is a component of Clarion’s broader initiatives to deliver premium affordable housing with an emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability.
How will the Lemon tree house redevelopment impact the Tower Hamlets community?
By increasing the number of social rent units from 49 to 58, the project will give locals access to more reasonably priced housing options.
By addressing current building and fire safety concerns, the new development will make inhabitants’ living spaces safer.
Installing heat pumps from communal air sources will increase sustainability and energy efficiency, which could lower households’ energy expenses.
High-quality, reasonably priced homes that will benefit the neighborhood for many years is the goal of the rehabilitation.
The project will turn Lemon Tree House into a contemporary building, which should enhance the neighborhood’s general appearance and usability.
The £21 million development investment might boost the local economy and create job prospects.