A housing department minister has approved plans for a new 1,046-home development on a retail site in North London, highlighting a strategic move to address the area’s housing shortage. This 18-storey project on Cricklewood Lane, previously occupied by a B&Q hardware store, presents a significant opportunity for both developers and investors.

Montreaux Cricklewood Developments secured outline planning permission from the London Borough of Barnet for this ambitious scheme. The redevelopment, covering roughly 2.78 hectares, is set to include a mix of residential and commercial spaces. The plan features four blocks ranging from three to 18 storeys, providing up to 1,049 homes, with 35% classified as affordable, alongside up to 1,200 square metres of commercial and community floorspace.

The project underwent a thorough review, including a public inquiry in February 2023, led by inspector G Rollings. The local government minister, Simon Hoare MP, endorsed the development, emphasizing its alignment with the National Planning Policy Framework’s emphasis on sustainable development, particularly in areas lacking sufficient housing supply.

This development is strategically located near Cricklewood railway station and is part of a designated growth and opportunity area. It aims to enhance the local community by providing housing, commercial spaces, and community facilities, all while maintaining a high design standard. The development also promises benefits like improved access to transportation, biodiversity enhancements, and the addition of a new community health centre.

Overall, this development represents a proactive step towards satisfying the local need for housing and community facilities, marking a positive turn for the North London area.