Catalyst and Mount Anvil have commenced enabling works on their joint venture regeneration scheme, The Verdean in Acton, marking a new chapter for the Friary Park estate
The start on the Verdean site follows Ealing Council granting planning permission in November 2019 and a successful agreement of the Section 106 late last year.
These are a result of the direct and ongoing collaboration between Catalyst, Mount Anvil, the current Friary Park residents and the council, which has ensured the existing community remains at the heart of the decisions.
The large-scale regeneration is set to deliver around 990 homes of which 45% will be genuinely affordable.
In addition to the new homes, new commercial space, landscaped green spaces, new children’s play space and an improved community facility will also be created, all just a few minutes’ walk from the Acton Mainline Crossrail station.
Geen spaces for the local community to enjoy
Phil Jenkins, group development director at Catalyst, said: “I’m delighted that our partnership team have been able to start enabling works on site and overcome the ongoing challenges brought about by the pandemic.
“Starting work on the regeneration of Friary Park marks a milestone in developing a significant number of new homes for families in Ealing.”
Marcus Bate, investment director at Mount Anvil, said: “This is a very exciting time for all residents and our partnership team involved in the transformation of the Friary Park estate.
“We’re taking a big step forward on the path to creating outstanding new affordable and private homes in Acton and truly sustainable green spaces for the local community to enjoy.
“This has all been made possible through close collaboration with the existing residents and the dedication of our construction team to create a safe working environment during the pandemic.”
Julian Bell, leader of Ealing Council, added: “I am delighted that work can begin on the regeneration of Friary Park.
“This development will deliver a new neighbourhood in Acton, jobs and apprenticeships for local people during its construction and help us reach our target of delivering 2,500 genuinely affordable homes by April 2022.
“The past year has shown us just how important good quality housing, accessible green spaces and strong communities are, so I look forward to seeing this exciting new neighbourhood completed.”
