Merton Council has given the go-ahead to a brand new housing development in Mitcham, which is all set to transform the former Roan industrial estate.
The 0.61 hectare site, which has been disused for a number of years, will now play a role in the regeneration of the town, providing 55 homes and a brand new health centre at Lavender Avenue in Lavender Fields ward.
The council has negotiated with developer Greenacre to deliver flexible, mixed tenure housing which will provide opportunities for people to be able to buy their homes.
The 305m2 health centre will house the GP practice currently located in Graham Road, offering Mitcham residents a twenty-first century primary care service.
The council has also negotiated, as part of the planning application, for the developer to contribute over £285,000 towards education services in the borough, improving play areas near the site, as well as enhanced public transport and the development of initiatives to boost the local economy.
In line with the borough’s pioneering environmental planning policy, the Merton Rule, and the London Plan, the development includes on-site energy generation from renewable sources which will reduce carbon emissions by 20%.
Merton Council cabinet member for Housing and Community Services, Councillor Linda Scott said: ‘This is great news for Mitcham and for the regeneration of our town. Through this development, we are providing a mixture of much needed housing for families who want to live in an area that is well connected to central London with all the opportunities that has to offer.
‘This development, including a new health centre, will mean an old, run-down industrial estate is transformed into a place where people will be proud to live.’
Further information about the housing development can be found at: http://www.merton.gov.uk/roan-planning-application
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Notes to editors
1.The development will be located to the rear of 17-25 Mortimer Road and 16-24 Laings Avenue, Mitcham on what was formerly the Roan industrial estate.
2.The development will include 51 car parking spaces.
3.Eligibility of those wishing to rent or be a shared owner of one of the new homes will be subject to an independent financial assessment.
4.The Merton Rule is the groundbreaking planning policy developed by Merton Council which requires the use of renewable energy on site to reduce annual CO2 emissions in the built environment. Merton developed the rule and adopted it in 2003. Its impact was so great that the then Mayor of London and many councils also implemented the rule. It has also been included in national planning guidance.
5.Energy-efficient fittings in the development will provide 75% of the lighting. Water consumption will be kept to no more than 105 litres per person through low flow showers, dual flush toilets and flow aerators on taps. Every home will have a water meter to encourage sensible use of water. Rain water harvesting will be incorporated into the development to irrigate a communal terrace area.