Sadiq Khan overturns decision by Hillingdon council after it refused proposal on design grounds

The mayor of London has approved plans for a 514-home scheme on the former Master Brewer site in Hillingdon, west London, after the borough decided to turn the scheme down on design grounds.

Sadiq Khan approved the scheme by Inland Homes on the 2.5 hectare former hotel site late last week. It consists of a series of blocks of up to 11 storeys in height, despite Hillingdon’s concerns.

Master Brewer site Inland Homes Hillingdon

However, housing secretary Robert Jenrick has issued a “holding direction” over the scheme, meaning that the project, designed by architect JTP and Collado Collins, will now go to him for final determination before it can proceed.

Turning down the scheme in February, Hillingdon cited eight reasons for refusal, including that it represented over-development on the site that would impact on neighbouring Green Belt, as well as a raft of concerns over the amenity for residents in terms of noise, air quality, parking, daylight and external space.

However, officers at the Greater London Authority decided that the scheme was of a “high quality” design that optimised the potential of the site, had been subject to significant scrutiny, and made “no unacceptable visual impact on the Green Belt.” It also met the mayor’s target for 35% affordable housing – with 182 affordable homes proposed – and will provide a further £1.4m contribution towards public transport.

Inland Homes submitted plans for the scheme in September last year, following consultation with local residents and work with the London Wildlife Trust on plans for a bio-diverse garden area.