There has been a long running saga about plans to redevelop the Aylesham Centre in Peckham. It was first chosen as a potential site for housing over a decade ago. Since then, there have been a number of different proposals. Two did not come to fruition, and the most recent ones are having major issues too. Let’s have a look, and if you need guaranteed rent in Southwark for assets, you can talk to us.

Proposals

Current owner Berkeley Homes is promoting their redevelopment as a “once in a generation project”. They revealed plans in July 2024 to demolish the current shopping centre and a supermarket. Then, they would redevelop the site to build 877 homes, new retail and commercial space, new public space, and better connections for the area.

One of the crucial details with the original plans was the delivery of a significant amount of affordable housing. In total, 35% of the habitable rooms on the development would be affordable. That works out as 270 homes, including 185 for social rent and the remaining properties designated as intermediate homes.

In December 2024 though, Berkeley Homes made amendments to the plans. Controversially, it would reduce the amount of affordable housing to just 12%, with 77 homes. The reworked proposals also got rid of a Community Land Trust development.

Response

Peckham is a popular spot, and one of the most popular places to live in London. People are drawn to the arty, creative vibe, diverse community, and array of amenities. If you decide to invest, you can rely on us to arrange guaranteed rent in Southwark.

There was a big negative response to the new plans for the Aylesham Centre. The local community and SHAPE (a coalition of community groups) have been campaigning strongly against the development. They argue the proposals are not in the best interest of Peckham because they provide the wrong type of housing and will change the local demographic.

One of the key criticisms is the reduction in affordable housing. Campaigners say such a big project would be a lost opportunity to deliver a significant amount of homes for local people, including low income families and individuals.

Another negative was the height of the proposed blocks. Part of the development would be up to 20 storeys. Most importantly, there would be seven storey properties on part of the site that is in a conservation area and currently 3-5 storeys. As a result, it would alter the entire skyline.

Council decision

At a recent meeting Southwark Council gave a unanimous vote to deny planning permission. They said the amount of affordable housing in the current plans is not sufficient enough to offset the harm to the area. Additionally, the proposals would be damaging to local heritage.

Interestingly, this isn’t the end for the saga though. The responsibility for deciding the fate of the plans is on the shoulders of the Planning Inspectorate. Berkeley Homes appealed to them earlier in the year because a decision had not been made by Southwark Council at the time. The current timetable is for an Inquiry to take place in October.

Speak to us about guaranteed rent in Southwark

There are lots of great locations in Southwark if you’re looking to invest, including Peckham as well as neighbouring areas. You can rely on us to help you with assets. We can tailor a service for any portfolio and look at different opportunities to ensure you get the most from your investments.

One thing we recommend is considering guaranteed rent in Southwark and other parts of London. It is the perfect way to get a secure rental income, and also reduces the stress of owning and managing investment properties. We make it easy, and can offer the perfect resources. So, get in touch to learn more.