A supermarket is to build 353 flats in London, but only 10% are affordable

From soaring prices to challenging landlords, it’s a universally acknowledged truth that navigating the rental market can be notoriously difficult.

Now a popular retailer has been given the go-ahead to build 353 new homes to rent in south London, with the hope of putting local people first in the process.

The John Lewis Partnership is to turn a site in Bromley – which is currently a Waitrose supermarket – into a sprawling block of flats.

The store will still be open as well, so if you end up renting one of these and need to go to the shops, there’s one right on your doorstep.

However, TimeOut reports that just under 10% of homes will be affordable – with 30 of the rentals promised as such by John Lewis.

NATIVE Vol however, to be prioritized for “built to rent” homes, and the organization said the scheme would boost the local economy by around £70m in the first 10 years, thanks to extra income from council tax and resident spending.

The proposals also include new public green spaces, a cafe and community spaces for local groups and schools to use, alongside additional cycle and pedestrian routes linking to the high street.

While details are currently limited when it comes to what the apartments will look like inside, the plans note that the apartments will be “built specifically for tenants,” offering common areas for fitness, homework and socializing.

There will also be a variety of sizes, with a mix of one, two and three-bedroom homes on offer – all available with long-term rental options.

“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,” said Katherine Russell, BTR director of the John Lewis Partnership.

“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.”

The John Lewis Partnership is not the only retailer to venture into the world of property. In May, Asda announced a development project to create 1,500 new homes as well as a flagship store in Park Royal, near Acton.

The project aims to become the UK’s largest regeneration scheme, dubbed the potential ‘Canary Wharf of West London’, with initial plans for the superstore to span 60,000 square metres.

So who knows what the future might hold for supermarket-owned properties – maybe loyalty card points when you pay the rent?

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