Cockfosters Tube station development given go-ahead by Labour government

Transport for London (TfL) has been granted a 250-year lease for the land currently being used for car parking on the northern end of the Piccadilly Line.

The new 1.36 hectare car-free development promises to deliver 350 new homes, which some 40% will be affordable.

The project will also improve public access to nearby Trent Park and the London Outer Orbital Path and replace much of the current surface with new trees and greenery.

TfL first requested permission in 2021 to sell the land by the station, but this was denied by the then Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps. The transport body applied again to the Department for Transport in November 2023 and this application has now been granted by the current Transport Secretary Louise Haigh.

Work will now progress to ensure that the development can begin in the coming years, including updating the designs in response to the latest fire safety requirements and liaising with the local council planning authority on any changes needed.

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The mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “After the previous government refused to approve the plans, I’m delighted that the new government has given us the green light to progress exciting plans for new homes at Cockfosters station.

 “Building homes right next to public transport connections is a key part of our plans to deliver the high-quality homes Londoners need.

 “This important project will deliver new commercial space, increase green space and, most importantly, it will provide the affordable housing that I have pledged to deliver for Londoners.

“I look forward to continuing working with the Government to build a better, fairer and more prosperous London for everyone.” 

Transport Secretary Louise Haigh said: “This Government is committed to getting Britain building and working with local leaders to boost regional growth.

 “I’m delighted to finally unblock this important project to kickstart the development of hundreds of much needed new homes in Enfield.”

Places for London, TfL’s property arm, is currently working towards a target of constructing 20,000 homes, including 50% affordable housing, by 2031.

“This key milestone will be built on in the coming years as developments at Kidbrooke, Wembley Park, Bollo Lane, Barkingside, Southall and Nine Elms complete, providing much needed new housing close to Tube stations,” the mayor’s office said in a statement.