Bromley Palace is one of the most impressive properties in the Borough. However, there are some fears about its future following Galliard’s purchase in April. The first proposals for converting office buildings on the site were recently refused though. We want to have a closer look here to see what could happen next. Then, if you want help with guaranteed rent in Bromley, you can trust us.

Big moves

The Council bought the Grade II Bromley Palace in the early 1980s as part of a plan to move their town hall and create a larger civic centre. Subsequently, there was work on the site, including an extension and creation of other buildings. Ultimately, the site became a campus, retaining some green space and other features like the folly. The council move was complete in 1982.

Bromley’s Civic Centre was at the palace complex until 2023. However, they made the decision to move to Churchill Court because the Grade II building was in need of extensive refurbishment. Ultimately, they chose to renovate Churchill Court instead and move in December 2024.

With the move away from Bromley Palace, the council made the decision to sell up. Galliard ultimately chose to pay £13.5m for it, including the palace and old civic centre campus, but the park was not part of the sale.

Development

Galliard has big plans for the site. Their masterplan is to create “beautiful parkside apartments” by sensitively converting the old Civic Centre and other buildings. It could be a great project for this popular spot. We’re happy to help investors here, including with guaranteed rent in Bromley.

The first proposals for Galliard’s redevelopment failed to get approval earlier this month though. Planners for the council had given a recommendation to refuse two proposals (to convert the Stockwell building and North building). The Plans Sub Committee chose to side with them.

There were several reasons given for refusing permission for the two applications. One was the fact that there wouldn’t be enough natural light in the properties. The plans were to create 128 flats, including 115 one bed. However, critics said it wasn’t in keeping with an area that is mainly family homes. There were concerns about the impact on local infrastructure, waste storage, and the amount of parking too.

Another reason for refusing the two proposals is the fact the Stockwell and North buildings are on the grounds of Bromley Palace. Because it is Grade II, developments are not permitted on the grounds. Galliard will have to resolve this.

Speak to us about guaranteed rent in Bromley

It will be interesting to see what Galliard’s next move is. The council said previously they wished them the best with their plans. Galliard themselves said they “appreciate the importance of the site”. They’ll have to consider what the area needs. More consultation with the public would probably be helpful too; there were 30 objections to the two proposals.

If you decide to invest in any parts of Bromley, it is a good idea to think about your options. From a financial point of view, you’ll want to make sure you get a healthy income. Voids and trouble finding tenants, or issues with payments, could be massive risks. If you want to avoid them, a service to guarantee you get payments is a wise move.

We’re always happy to help if you want to learn more about guaranteed rent in Bromley and other parts of London. It is our speciality, and we work with a number of councils, so get in touch and speak to us.