Lambeth Housing Estates Saved From Demolition

Three housing estates in Lambeth are to be spared demolition as part of a revised £250 million housing strategy. Central Hill in Crystal Palace and Cressingham Gardens, located near Brixton, will be taken off the estate redevelopment programme. Knights Walk in Kennington will be removed from the New Homes Hexagon Portfolio, a major public and private sector partnership aiming to build approximately 500 new homes across the borough.

Financial Viability and New Focus

The reversal of previous demolition plans is expected to be confirmed by Lambeth Council's cabinet at a meeting scheduled for Wednesday. According to a report presented to the cabinet, council officers concluded that the comprehensive redevelopment of Central Hill and Cressingham Gardens, which would have involved demolishing and rebuilding the estates, was financially unviable. The council has stated its intention to focus on maintaining existing properties and bringing vacant homes back into use. This approach aligns with a commitment to delivering 'genuinely affordable homes' while respecting the borough's architectural heritage.

The first phase of development at Knights Walk has reportedly led to the second phase of the site becoming inaccessible and unviable, contributing to its removal from the wider scheme. Central Hill and Cressingham Gardens are noted as post-war developments designed by architects, including Ted Hollamby, known for modernist housing intended to improve residents' lives.

Years of Resident Uncertainty

Residents on these estates have faced years of uncertainty, with campaigns to prevent demolition ongoing for over 12 years. A 2022 review by Sir Bob Kerslake, former head of the civil service, highlighted uniformly negative feedback from residents regarding estate conditions and exceptionally low trust in the council due to poor communication and inconsistent policies. The review also recommended closing down the council's housing company, Homes for Lambeth, which had been managing the estate renewal programme. The project has since been brought back under direct council management.

Scott Ainslie, cabinet member for property, planning and development, described Central Hill and Cressingham Gardens as "valued places with strong communities and distinctive architecture." He added that the council could build needed homes without erasing existing structures, pursuing high-quality, sustainable council and social housing on suitable sites using various delivery models. The council also plans to engage with residents on plans for Westbury Estate in Clapham Town, review options for Fenwick Estate in Clapham North, and develop options for South Lambeth Estate with the community.

What Happens Next

Lambeth Council's cabinet is expected to formally approve the reversal of demolition plans on Wednesday. The council will then proceed with plans to maintain existing properties and bring vacant homes back into use on the Central Hill and Cressingham Gardens estates. Work will also involve community engagement for future plans on other estates.