Levitt Bernstein has secured planning permission for a significant mixed-use development in Islington’s Archway area, with plans to deliver 79 new homes alongside a new library and medical centre. The scheme, approved by councillors at a recent planning committee meeting, represents an ambitious attempt to combine much-needed affordable housing with community facilities and public realm improvements.

The proposed development on Vorley Road will replace an existing two-storey office and bus waiting area with three blocks rising up to 15 storeys. Over half of the new homes will be affordable, split into 33 for social rent, seven for shared ownership, and 39 private sale units. Importantly, one in ten homes will be wheelchair accessible, highlighting an inclusive approach to design. The project also features a new space for the Archway Library, a new GP surgery, and enhancements to the public realm, including improved lighting and cycle parking along Vorley Road.

This initiative is notable for its sustainability credentials. The buildings are designed to meet high environmental standards, employing heat pumps and photovoltaic panels to reduce carbon emissions. Levitt Bernstein has positioned this development as a pilot scheme addressing the climate emergency, aiming for net-zero carbon performance in line with Passivhaus standards, which focus on energy efficiency and reducing residents’ energy bills. This emphasis on sustainability aligns with Islington Council’s broader goals to tackle climate change while addressing the local housing crisis.

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2023, reflecting a streamlined timeline following planning approval. The project team includes a range of specialists such as HTA Design (planning), Calfordseaden (structural engineering), Max Fordham (acoustics), KM Heritage, and Lime Transport, ensuring comprehensive expertise across the development’s key aspects.

However, the project has drawn mixed reactions from the local community. While the council and developers emphasise the scheme’s benefits in providing desperately needed affordable homes and community facilities, some residents have expressed concerns about the scale and height of the proposed buildings. The tallest block at 15 storeys has prompted objections regarding its impact on the local skyline and character of the area. Despite these reservations, the council justified the decision by highlighting the scheme’s potential to optimise an underused site and contribute to wider urban regeneration efforts.

This scheme reflects broader trends in London’s approach to development, where councils and developers are increasingly tasked with balancing urgent housing needs, sustainability targets, and community expectations. By integrating affordable housing with civic amenities and environmental standards, the Vorley Road project aims to be a model for future developments in the capital, even as it navigates the challenges of achieving consensus among stakeholders.

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Source: Noah Wire Services