There was fantastic news earlier this month when Clarion Housing Group got permission for a redevelopment project in Bow. It will create new social housing and more at a site close to the station. We want to have a look at the plans here to see what they mean for the area. Then, if you’re an investor or landlord and want help from a lettings agent in Tower Hamlets, you can rely on us.
The current building
The project will involve the demolition of the 22 storey Clare House. In its place Clarion will create a new 23 storey tower plus two five storey blocks. As a result, it will create 145 homes, all for social rent.
One of the best things here is it’s a very positive move for the site. The current property was built in 1967, but has been empty since October 2021. There was an evacuation of residents at the time due to worries about safety. The findings of a survey said there were structural problems and fire safety concerns. It said Clare House could not reopen without refurbishment. Alternatively, the owner could demolish and rebuild.
Redevelopment
Clarion ultimately made the decision to develop plans to demolish and replace Clare House. The designs for the new development are by HTA Design. They aim to create a thriving, sustainable community on the site. The work could inspire other projects. If so, and clients want help from a lettings agent in Tower Hamlets, we would be happy to show what we can do.
The centre of the new development is the social housing. Plans were developed with public consultation and engagement. As a result, the work will provide the best benefits for the area. Most notably, 51% of the new homes will be family size, featuring three or four bedrooms (52 and 22 respectively). There will also be 39 one bed and 32 two bed properties. Plus, 16 homes will be accessible for residents that need wheelchairs.
A neighbouring property, Francis Lee Community Centre, will also be redeveloped because it has the same structural and fire safety issues. A new community facility will offer 198.5sq/m of floorspace, creating a new hub for the area.
The designs also include landscaping, play areas, and improvements to the public realm in the area. It will make the area greener and more inclusive.
Support and comments
The proposals for Clare House got unanimous approval from the local Planning Committee. Chair Councillor Iqbal Hossain said it is “a very decent development” with “quite an impressive design”. The properties will be fantastic for local families. If private landlords focus on the area too, we can offer all the services you need from a lettings agent in Tower Hamlets.
HTA were careful here, taking inspiration from the heritage of other social housing schemes in Tower Hamlets so the new development would suit the area. Crucially, Associate Partner Paul Maddock said they wanted to give the building “a lively character”, creating a new slender landmark for the area.
Clarion’s CDO, Richard Cook, said they were “delighted to receive planning approval”. It is a milestone for their plans to redevelop the site. It will “deliver high-quality homes for local families” as well as a new community hub.
The next phase will involve demolishing Clare House and Francis Lee Community Centre. Clarion is expecting to begin the preparatory works for this in the next few months, so it may not be long before locals start to see changes.
Do you want help from a lettings agent in Tower Hamlets?
Finefair Ltd provides exceptional services for different landlords and investors. Our solutions are unique because we have experience with guaranteed rent, HMOs, portfolio management, and more. You can choose a bespoke package to match your assets and goals.
So, if you ever want help from a lettings agent in Tower Hamlets, consider us. We can deliver fantastic value and offer the flexibility to make changes to your portfolio. Get in touch to learn more today.
