In September Sutton Council said they were planning to take over the site at 71-75 Westmead Road in Carshalton. Their goal was to then use it to create new social housing. We’ve had some progress since then, with a formal planning application submission this week. We want to have a closer look at the plans here, then if you want to discuss investments and guaranteed rent in Sutton with a leading specialist, we can help.

Original plans

The site in Carshalton was previously home to two buildings, including a newsagent. However, they were no longer in use and one was in serious decline. Developers got planning permission in 2020 to clear and redevelop the site. Their plan was to build 35 flats in a new high quality part 3, part 4 storey block. The project also had car parking and new space for amenities, such as a landscaped open space.

While the developer got approval for the project, it did not finish. The demolition was complete, readying for construction. Sadly though, the entire development then stalled, leaving the site boarded up and inaccessible. Sutton Council saw the opportunity to take over and create social housing to help achieve their target of building 600 new homes.

New proposals

The new planning application for the site will allow the Council to make significant changes to the original designs. Most notably, there is a redesign of the housing itself. There will be one less home, reducing the total to 34, but this will allow an increase in the size of several homes, creating more family size three bedroom units. If the new proposal gets permission, there will be 24 flats and 10 maisonettes.

Additionally, the new design updates the proposals to comply with recent changes in building standards. Crucially, there will be accessible properties for wheelchair users and elderly people. It also alters the car parking element, roof space, and balconies. The redesign features communal gardens and play areas too. If you’re thinking of investing in properties in the area, consider guaranteed rent in Sutton.

Another notable thing about the designs is the homes will meet Passivhaus energy efficiency standards. This requires an additional £1.4m investment, but it means the properties will be more sustainable and cheaper to heat. It will be massively beneficial to residents.

The move to take over the site got plenty of backing because it will create social rent homes in a great location. Even better, it will return a Brownfield site to use and benefit the wider community. Plus, the council homes will reduce the number of local households living in temporary accommodation. The estimate is it could save over £500,000 in costs annually.

Jake Short, the Housing, Economy & Business Committee leader for Sutton Council, said they “want to build quality and affordable homes”. The site in Carshalton will deliver the kind of homes local people desperately need. Crucially, they are “pleased” to provide more family size units. Even more, the project makes “sound economic sense”.

Enquire about guaranteed rent in Sutton

Many investors take risks with their assets, especially if they have housing and tenants. Void periods between tenancies can mean cash flow problems and losses. There can also be issues if tenants fail to pay or they don’t look after the property. With the potential for so many problems, it is a good idea to look at alternatives.

Guaranteed rent could be exactly what you need. Working with experts like us and local councils, everything is easier and you get stable income. Schemes can last for various periods to suit different needs too, providing impressive flexibility.

So, if you want to try guaranteed rent in Sutton or other parts of London, speak to us. We’re a knowledgeable specialist and can help you to decide what to do.