Lambeth councillors approve 134-room co-living scheme in Oval

Lambeth councillors have unanimously approved plans for a 134-room co-living development at 68-86 Clapham Road in Oval. The decision was made by Lambeth Council's Planning Applications Committee last Tuesday, September 22. The scheme, proposed by Espalier Property Ventures Ltd, will replace the current four-storey building and vacant Europcar depot with purpose-built shared living accommodation.

Addressing site issues

During the committee meeting, the existing site was described as an 'eyesore' that had become a focal point for fly-tipping, human and dog fouling, and anti-social behaviour. Councillor Bryn Scott, an Oval ward councillor, noted that the site had historically been a 'hotspot for ASB, drinking and far worse'. He expressed gratitude to the project team for addressing concerns raised by councillors and residents, which he stated had helped to alleviate some of the issues since the site was secured last year.

Local residents and community groups also voiced support for the redevelopment. A representative from the Fentiman and Richborne Residents' Association (FARA) suggested that co-living spaces could be a positive addition to the primarily residential area, potentially reducing demand for short-term lets on platforms like Airbnb. An Oval resident described the current site as unsafe at night and prone to anti-social behaviour, stating that redevelopment was necessary for any improvement.

Development details and contributions

The approved development will comprise 134 co-living rooms, four self-contained maisonettes facing Palfrey Place, and three classrooms designated for adult education and data analyst training. The co-living rooms will range from 18 to 20.5 square metres, with 13 larger wheelchair-accessible rooms measuring between 28 and 30 square metres. The building's maximum height will be five storeys.

Richard Ward, Director at DP9 Limited, acting as the applicant's agent, stated that the development would provide the equivalent of approximately 76 net additional homes. The scheme includes ground-floor education space with capacity for 60 students. Following a viability appraisal, the applicant offered a £1.4 million payment in lieu for off-site affordable housing, as no affordable housing will be provided on the development site itself. This payment was agreed upon after a viability appraisal showed a £3.1 million deficit, which council consultants reviewed and accepted.

What happens next

The planning application was approved with a unanimous vote of seven councillors in favour. Further details regarding the commencement of demolition and construction are expected to be released by Espalier Property Ventures Ltd in due course.