Ladbroke Grove Sainsbury's Kensal Canalside development: 'Excitement' but affordable housing concerns

Plans for more than 2,500 homes next to a canal in west London have faced a backlash from some - but other Londoners in Ladbroke Grove are excited about the new development.

A huge new neighbourhood is proposed for the area around the Sainsbury’s site in Ladbroke Grove, across the Grand Union Canal from Kensal Green Cemetery, in Kensington and Chelsea.

Sainsbury’s and developer Ballymore have submitted a planning proposal for new 2,519 homes, of which at least 500 would be affordable, and two parks. The scheme would include more than 90,000 square feet of shops, cafes and restaurants.

The supermarket would remain in operation until the new Sainsbury's opens.

More than 3,000 people have signed a petition launched in April, raising concerns about the project, but LondonWorld asked passersby what they think of the proposals.

Loui

Loui, who lives near the area, said: “I think it’s exciting. I think it opens up new space to potentially develop some more amenities, potentially some new leisure centres, things that come with new residences being built.

“I’m excited for the other advancements that come as a part of it.”

Sarah

Sarah, who has lived in the area for almost 20 years, said that while she is partially in favour of the development, she has concerns about the lack of affordable housing.

“It doesn’t concern me too much, I know we need housing, so overall I’m kind of in favour of it," she said. “I love the area and I hope it adds to it. I want the affordable housing to stay, and for them to not try and cut it out like they often do."

Affordable housing in the UK is defined as having rent at least 20% below local market rates.

Sarah questioned how affordable the homes will really be, but added: "I wish it was all affordable housing, that would be even better.”

Alize

Alize said: “New architectural projects in the neighbourhood always brings positivity and new motivation for people to create new businesses and new life.

“It will really have an impact on people’s lives, and it might bring new safety to the neighbourhood, which is also important.

“With the prices in London it’s always good to have new homes.”

Ballymore

If the planning application is successful, the 11-year construction could begin in 2025, with the first homes delivered in 2030.

John Mulryan, group managing director of the developer Ballymore, previously said: “The scale and location of the site – in one of London’s 48 opportunity areas – presents a real opportunity to create a thoughtfully designed, accessible and sustainable canalside neighbourhood with strong transport links.

“Kensal Canalside will provide a significant number of much-needed homes, plus a variety of retail spaces as well as open green spaces and a community leisure and amenity space that our residents and the local people can enjoy.”

The developer says the plan will create at least 2,000 long-term jobs and boost the local economy by approximately £37 million annually.