The Clearings originally consisted of two warehouse buildings connected by a link bridge built as a depository for the Peter Jones Department Store in the 1930’s. The vendor, the John Lewis Partnership secured planning to change use to residential including some 62 flats and seven townhouses. Our Client proposed a new plan to supersede the original to increase the amount of accommodation and implement a new design befitting of the Borough’s traditional architecture.
Project Objective
The Client sought to revisit the original inherited approved plan and revise it to reimagine the design and secure an additional 4,000 sqm of accommodation to better suit the housing needs of the Borough.
Role of DP9
DP9 was appointed as planning advisor and agent to the Client, leading the project on all town planning matters, devising the strategy and leading negotiations with the planning authority and a development weary local population. Maintaining positive relations amongst all stakeholders was central to achieving a positive outcome.
Key Challenge
With approval for a residential scheme having been granted previously, securing consent for a new design with additional floor space was a challenge. In addition, DP9 had to negotiate a complicated S106 Agreement that provided for a new school off site and additional affordable housing payments in lieu of on-site provision.
Repurposing of John Lewis warehouses in Chelsea
Barnaby Collins
Director
A founding member of DP9 in 2004, Barnaby has over 30 years’ experience advising on development opportunities for International and UK investors, developers and occupiers across private and public sectors. Barnaby specialises in complex development schemes in London and the South East including major commercial and residential developments and those involving listed buildings and conservation areas. Barnaby also takes an active role in industry bodies such as the City Architecture Forum and City Property Association. Barnaby's PA is Lucinda Hammond.
