Child Graddon Lewis wins planning for 53 social rent homes on former council office site

Child Graddon Lewis has secured planning consent for a 53-home affordable housing scheme on the site of a former council office building in Bethnal Green East. The project, located on Roman Road, is part of Tower Hamlets Council’s wider programme to deliver 4,000 new homes for social rent.

The mixed-use development, known as Albert Jacob House, is designed to include residential accommodation, 350m² of commercial space and new communal landscaping. Tower Hamlets council, which owns the site, intends for the scheme to provide 100% affordable housing at social rent.

The redevelopment replaces a 1970s concrete-framed structure. Following a feasibility study, the council concluded that a new-build approach would maximise housing delivery, enable improved energy performance and provide a better-quality environment for future residents and business tenants.

The scheme comprises a building of between six and nine storeys, positioned on the edge of the Globe Road Conservation Area. The architects state that the massing and materiality have been developed to respond to the surrounding urban context.

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A CGI of the proposed scheme

Source: Secchi Smith

The existing Albert Jacob House on the site

Source: Google Street View

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The proposals include new landscaping and public realm, including play space and planting intended to enhance biodiversity. The landscape design is positioned between the new building and neighbouring Godley VC House and is intended to improve access and amenity for both new and existing residents.

According to the architect, the design seeks to balance density with quality. “The proposed building and its landscaping successfully weave themselves into the existing urban grain,” said Christopher Gilligan, associate at Child Graddon Lewis.

“We are particularly excited by what feels to be the jewel in the scheme, the combined landscaping, play and amenity… which creates a public space that is tranquil, safe, and welcoming for all.”

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The development incorporates a range of sustainable features, including on-site renewable generation through a communal ground source heat pump and photovoltaic panels.

The council has emphasised the role of the project in tackling housing need. “We are determined to meet the urgent demand for social housing in Tower Hamlets, with far too many families currently living in overcrowded or unsuitable conditions,” said executive mayor Lutfur Rahman. “This is an important project that will provide 53 much-needed social rent homes for our residents.”