Wandsworth opens the door to business again in new initiative to unlock growth and house-building

The Leader of the Council set out new priorities for growth, regeneration and investment and opened a direct conversation with the development sector about the opportunities and barriers to delivering new homes, jobs and successful places across the borough.

Over 100 representatives from the development and investment sectors met up with Cabinet Members and senior council officers, sharing ideas and discussions on how earlier engagement, clearer expectations and stronger partnerships can help unlock high-quality development.

Councillor Robert Morritt, Leader of Wandsworth Council said: “Today I have started a new chapter for Wandsworth - this borough is open for business once again, and we're ready to work with partners who share our ambition to deliver high-quality homes and successful places. 

“We understand that developers and investors need clarity, timely decisions and a council that is prepared to work through obstacles. That does not mean saying yes to everything, but it does mean being practical, reliable and clear on development proposals from an early stage. 

“I'm absolutely clear that we want growth that creates lasting value for our residents, including better infrastructure and neighbourhoods, jobs and thriving local businesses. We're looking for long-term partners who will help us turn Wandsworth’s considerable and internationally significant opportunities into delivery - and we will play our part at pace.”

 

 

The council also set out its commitment to a new Growth Plan for the borough, which supports a wide range of housing choices, including homes to rent and buy and affordable housing, alongside the infrastructure and investment needed to support growth. 

The event highlighted Wandsworth’s strong foundations for future growth, including its major regeneration areas, transport connections, skilled population and long track record of delivering new homes and neighbourhoods as seen in Battersea and Nine Elms.

James Saunders, Chief Executive of Battersea Power Station Development Company, said: “We were delighted to host Wandsworth Council’s first Developer Forum. It was fantastic to bring so many developers and investors together and to have the opportunity to discuss both the challenges facing the industry and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead as the regeneration of this area of London continues.

“The long-term commitment of our shareholders, combined with constructive dialogue and close working relationship with the Council, has been key to delivering the thriving riverside neighbourhood at Battersea Power Station, which has welcomed more that 50 million visitors since October 2022. We look forward to building on this partnership as we deliver the next chapter of development, with plans to create up to 3.2 million sq ft of residential, commercial and leisure space across the remaining 16 acres of undeveloped land, and thousands of job opportunities for the local community.”

As well as development and growth opportunities from Nine Elms, through Clapham Junction to Wandsworth Town, there are sites and opportunities elsewhere in the borough.

The launch of our series of Developer Forums is a central part of the council’s work to strengthen relationships with the development sector and encourage earlier conversations about viable, high-quality proposals.