The John Lewis Partnership has got the green light to transform a Waitrose site in South London with 353 new rental homes above a modernised store.
The London Borough of Bromley agreed the plan, which will see a 24 storey tower built containing build to rent homes for local people.
It is the first time that the John Lewis Partnership department store company has gone into residential housing development, as it seeks to diversify away from its traditional shops and retail business.
Plans also feature new public green spaces, a cafe and amenity spaces for local community groups.
The site sits next to Bromley South Rail Station in the town centre and at the intersection of major roads.
Investment firm abrdn is working with John Lewis in a £500m joint venture to deliver around 1,000 new homes across three local communities, including the Bromley project.
James Dunne, head of operational real estate at investor abrdn, said: “Well designed and professionally managed rental homes are a vital component in helping to solve the UK’s housing needs.
“Build-to-rent on brownfield sites such as this can also act as an anchor for town centre regeneration and wider community investment. We look forward to continuing working closely with JLP to move forward with our strategy.”
