Tower block planned next to Abbey Wood Elizabeth line station

The proposal on Sedgemere Road would see 228 homes being added to the site beside Abbey Wood Elizabeth line station.

The application includes a pair of blocks, with the shorter structure rising to seven storeys. Planning documents from Grid, on behalf of Abbey Wood Sedgemere Limited, said that 35 per cent of the homes provided in the scheme would be ‘affordable’.

The ground floor of the project would feature bike storage and an ‘amenity space’ for residents. The developer says this area could be used as a gym or home working space. A terrace and communal kitchen with entertainment space are also envisioned for the building’s first floor.

A new public realm is planned for the site, improving walking routes in the area. This will include a public square and park running along Sedgemere Road alongside two elevated residential gardens. Public seating and greenery will feature with a new play area.

The plans state: “The Sedgemere Road play area is designed to be an engaging and safe space for both existing and new residents. This area is surrounded by a soothing green atmosphere, featuring natural play elements and a central wooden structure.”

A CGI of the new play space planned for the scheme (Image: Grid / Abbey Wood Sedgemere)

The submission follows several rounds of consultation with Bexley Council, the Greater London Authority and members of the public. Improvements to the scheme as a result included redesigned public access routes and revisions to the building’s elevations.

The plans state: “The site represents a unique development opportunity within the heart of Abbey Wood to significantly contribute to Bexley Council’s housing delivery and the regeneration aims and ambitions of the wider opportunity area.”

MORE ABBEY WOOD PLANS

- New set of 17-storey tower blocks with co-living and hotel approved

Planning documents justified the height of the scheme by claiming the location of the nearby Elizabeth line station made it appropriate for high density housing. It was also noted that several other developments were planned for the area including blocks up to 17 storeys tall on Eynsham Drive.

Nearly 2,000 new homes are also envisioned nearby in South Thamesmead as part of Peabody’s scheme to regenerate the area. The trust has previously stated it owns 65 per cent of the land in Thamesmead and has intentions to build 2,600 new homes in the area.