John Lewis’s initial housing project is to be built in London

John Lewis is to introduce its first residential rental project above the Waitrose store in Bromley, south London

The John Lewis housing development will consist of 353 new homes built to rent above a modernized store.

The residential building will have 24 floors and will be surrounded by public green spaces, a cafe and leisure spaces.

The company is looking to expand its horizons

Originally announced as one of three proposals in 2022, this is the first housing project undertaken by the company.

John Lewis invited local people to take part in consultation rounds to ensure local people were happy with the development and that the extra homes could be delivered in the best possible way.

The move comes after John Lewis announced its desire to help with the national housing crisis and support local communities.

The John Lewis housing development will be part of a joint venture

Investment firm abrdn will co-operate with John Lewis on the development, along with other developments representing a £500m investment in 10,000 homes over the next few years.

Abrdn’s head of operational property, James Dunne, said: “Well-designed and professionally managed rental homes are a vital component in helping to solve the UK’s housing needs.

“Building for rent on brownfield sites such as these can also act as an anchor for town center regeneration and wider community investment. We look forward to continuing to work closely with JLP to move forward with our strategy.”

John Lewis hopes to see that when the houses are full, the houses provide the local area with council tax and local spending, contributing to the economy.

John Lewis BTR director Katherine Russell said: “We are delighted that elected members have agreed with the recommendations of their planning officers and after receiving significant support from the people of Bromley. This now gives us the opportunity to improve the local area, create vital new homes for local Bromley residents and deliver a state-of-the-art Waitrose that is at the heart of the community.”