Clarion secures planning permission to improve homes and public spaces on the Sutton Estate

Clarion Housing Group has been granted planning permission by Kensington and Chelsea Council for extensive work to modernise existing homes and improve public spaces on the Sutton Estate in the heart of the borough.

Plans for the estate, which was built more than 100 years ago, have been developed by HTA Architects following extensive consultation with residents and local stakeholders.

The multi-million pound investment programme will see four empty blocks refurbished and brought back into use, with a mix of one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom flats designed to match the needs of local residents. This work will deliver 81 new social rented homes, many of which will have balconies or terraces providing private outdoor space.

Residents in the remaining 303 flats on the estate will benefit from an extensive programme of upgrades including new kitchens and bathrooms, as well as improvements to communal areas, door entry systems and lifts.

Community-centred

The Sutton Estate is one of the earliest examples of purpose-built social housing in Britain, and HTA Architects were chosen to design the scheme as a result of their extensive experience of creating high quality homes whilst retaining as much of the original building and features as possible.

Green spaces, play facilities and external community facilities will also be upgraded, providing places for residents to socialise and relax. The plans also include a new wildlife-friendly space at the heart of the estate with seating, alongside places for residents to grow flowers and fruit.

A play trail will weave through the estate, and areas between building entrances will become people-friendly shared spaces with new trees and attractive planting, as well as improved bin and bike storage.

All of the new homes will be for social rent and priority will be given to residents currently living on the estate. There will be no homes for private sale.

Work on site is expected to start in late spring 2021 once a contractor has been appointed.

Clare Miller, chief executive of Clarion Housing Group, said:

“For over a century, the Sutton Estate has been at the heart of the community in Kensington and Chelsea. We are delighted to have secured planning permission to enable us to modernise the existing homes and the estate as a whole, providing high quality and sustainable homes to benefit not just today’s residents but future generations."

“Our plans will deliver 81 new social rented homes and we look forward to continuing our work with Kensington and Chelsea Council to help address the borough’s shortage of much-needed affordable housing.”

Councillor Kim Taylor-Smith said:

“This refurbishment of the Sutton Estate continues the legacy of William Sutton whose philanthropic nature highlights the long, proud commitment to social housing provision within Kensington and Chelsea to maintain what is a grand estate."

“It is a perfect example of a local authority and a housing association working together to the benefit of our residents."

“Our partnership is so important as we cannot solve our unique housing challenges alone, and I look forward to continuing our work with Clarion to tackle these challenges together.”