All the homes in this development are designated for social rent, ensuring affordable housing for local families in need.
Redbridge has taken a significant step in addressing the capital’s housing crisis with the completion of the first 23 of 98 brand-new social rent homes at Barkingside Yard. The remaining homes are set to be delivered by the summer, offering much-needed accommodation for those on the council’s waiting list.
The development, led by housing association Peabody in partnership with regeneration specialist Vistry Group and Places for London—Transport for London’s (TfL) wholly owned commercial property company—marks a major transformation of a former builder’s yard into a modern residential space. All the homes in this development are designated for social rent, ensuring affordable housing for local families in need.
A Collaborative Effort for Affordable Housing
The project has been supported by the Greater London Authority (GLA) through the Affordable Housing Grant, which aims to maximise the availability of affordable homes across the city. The development features a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, including eight three-bedroom units designed for families. Additionally, three homes have been built to full wheelchair-accessible standards, while seven more include adaptable features to enhance accessibility.
Located adjacent to Barkingside station on the Central Line, the homes offer excellent transport links, enabling residents to reach central London in under 45 minutes. The site is also well-connected through local cycling and bus routes, ensuring ease of access to essential services and amenities.
Sustainability and Community Enhancements
Designed by architects Sheppard Robson and ECE Architecture, the development integrates several features to improve the surrounding community’s safety and accessibility. These include reconfigured station car parking, new pedestrian crossings, solar lighting, and enhanced cycle parking facilities.
Environmental sustainability has been a key focus of the project. The development incorporates air source heat pumps, green roofs, and communal gardens that promote biodiversity. The site is car-free, except for designated Blue Badge parking spaces, encouraging the use of sustainable transport options.
As part of the planning agreement with Redbridge Council, the development will also contribute to improvements at the nearby Fairlop Waters Country Park, further enhancing green spaces for local residents.
Celebrating the Completion
To mark the completion of the first phase, representatives from Peabody, Vistry Group, Places for London, the GLA, Redbridge Council, and Turner & Townsend Project Management gathered for an event at Barkingside Yard on 30 January.
Councillor Kam Rai, Leader of Redbridge Council, welcomed the development, stating: “Any new developments that help alleviate the housing crisis are warmly welcomed. These homes provide much-needed social rent housing for families on our waiting list.
“I have toured these homes and am incredibly impressed by their quality and size. Our residents deserve warm, safe, high-quality housing, and these homes meet that standard. With Barkingside station right next door, they also offer a fantastic location for public transport access, reducing reliance on cars. I am sure the new tenants will be delighted with their new homes and the surrounding community.”
James McMylor, Regional Managing Director of Development at Peabody, highlighted the project’s significance: “The completion of these homes in partnership with our collaborators marks a major milestone. These new homes, along with those still to come, will provide essential affordable housing for local people while also enhancing the community with sustainable green spaces. We look forward to welcoming new residents later this year and seeing the positive impact this development will have on the area.”
Supporting London’s Housing Needs
Rachel Wood, Senior Development Manager at Places for London, emphasised the broader impact of the project: “It’s fantastic to see the first 23 homes completed, bringing a range of affordable housing options to Barkingside. By working with Peabody, we are ensuring that affordability and accessibility remain at the heart of this project. Our growing portfolio of developments is playing a vital role in delivering the homes London urgently needs while fostering sustainable, well-connected communities.”
Deputy Mayor for Housing & Residential Development, Tom Copley, praised the project’s contribution to London’s housing strategy: “It’s exciting to see the first 23 homes completed at Barkingside Yard, providing much-needed social housing. This collaboration between Places for London, Peabody, and Vistry, with support from the Mayor’s Affordable Homes Programme, also brings improvements to the local community, including new gardens, solar lighting, and enhanced cycle parking. Well-connected, sustainable developments like this are central to our vision of building a fairer, greener London.”
Looking Ahead
Daniel King, London Divisional Chair at Vistry Group, reflected on the project’s progress: “The past six months have been transformative for Barkingside Yard. Our strong partnership with Peabody and Places for London has driven rapid progress, from topping out to the completion of the first homes. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of all involved.
“With all 98 affordable homes due to be completed by summer, this development will make a tangible difference to the Redbridge community, providing high-quality housing, green spaces, and new public areas.”
Tim Rickford, Director of Central and Local Government at Turner & Townsend Project Management, also underscored the development’s impact: “We have been proud to support Peabody and our project partners in delivering this affordable housing scheme. These high-quality, sustainable homes, combined with improvements to the public realm, will greatly enhance the local area. We look forward to seeing residents move in over the coming months.”
A Step Forward for Affordable Housing
With the first residents preparing to move in and the remainder of the homes on track for completion by summer, Barkingside Yard represents a major step in addressing Redbridge’s housing needs. Through strong collaboration, innovative sustainability measures, and a focus on community improvements, this development is set to provide lasting benefits for local families and the wider borough.
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