Investigation initiated to determine the future of more than a thousand London residences
In the heart of South London, the Mortlake development remains a contentious issue, with local opposition voicing concerns over inadequate affordable housing, impact on infrastructure, and environmental issues. This controversy has been ongoing since proposals for the development of the former Stag Brewery site were first submitted by developer Reselton Properties.
The plans, which include constructing 1,075 homes in buildings up to nine storeys tall, a 1,200-place secondary school, and various amenities such as restaurants, shops, offices, a cinema, a hotel or a pub, have been approved by Richmond Council. However, the Greater London Authority (GLA) has expressed concerns over the affordability of the homes in the proposed scheme.
Local opposition, led by the Mortlake Brewery Community Group (MBCG), has objected to the proposals, claiming there aren't enough affordable homes and the scheme's density, height, and potential impact on traffic levels will severely affect the surroundings. Francine Bates, co-chair of MBCG, stated that the ongoing planning inquiry provides the last opportunity to reject the current plans and collaborate with the council and developers to create a scheme beneficial to the community.
The planning inquiry, held by the Planning Inspectorate, was launched in June 2024 and is scheduled to end on 14 June 2025. As of August 2025, no verifiable data on recent decisions, changes in plans, or negotiation outcomes specifically on affordable housing for the Mortlake proposal could be found. To get the latest official update, one might consider checking announcements from Richmond Council's planning department, local news outlets covering Mortlake developments, and statements from housing advocacy groups active in South London.
Interestingly, this is not the first time applications for the Stag Brewery site have been refused. In 2020, they were rejected due to a lack of affordable housing, and in 2021, due to concerns over height and scale, among other issues. Developer Reselton lodged an appeal against the council's non-determination of the applications after the GLA indicated its opposition to the scheme.
The appeal claims that there could be many months of further delay and a direct refusal from the GLA. Out of the homes, 65 have been earmarked to be available for affordable rent. It remains to be seen how the planning inquiry will decide the fate of the applications and whether they will reflect the needs and policy standards for affordable housing in the Mortlake development.
- The Mortlake Brewery Community Group (MBCG) emphasizes the need for investing in sufficient affordable housing in the Mortlake development to cater to the community's needs, as the current proposals have raised concerns about its affordability.
- The Greater London Authority (GLA) has expressed reservations about the affordability of homes in the Mortlake proposal, signaling a potential shift in the housing-market dynamics within the community.
- The ongoing controversy surrounding the Mortlake development, particularly the issue of affordability, highlights the role of real-estate investments in shaping the future of housing arrangements within South London's communities.
