BRENTFORD TO UNDERGO DRAMATIC CHANGE

£100 million of private investment to regenerate the town centre

The look of Brentford’s High Street will be changing dramatically with restaurants, riverside walks and moorings on the river and canal side of the area now it has got the final go-ahead. This mayor planning application had been given permission by Hounslow Council and was awaiting the seal of approval by the Secretary Of State. The Secretary of State found that “the Council’s consideration of the issues has been both thorough and comprehensive and they have addressed and taken into account relevant policies in reaching their conclusion to grant planning permission.”

Leader of Hounslow Council Cllr John Chatt, is delighted with the news: “Brentford is a unique location with an important historic past. The High Street will now be getting its much needed face-lift and provide improved retail and leisure facilities for people in and around Brentford.”

An artists impression of the new town centre

Local Ward Councillor Ruth Cadbury and member of Hounslow’s Executive for environmental issues said: ”The local people have been waiting far too long for the re-development of the High Street. It will bring jobs, leisure and prosperity to Brentford while at the same time preserving its important heritage. We will look forward to the detailed application and we will be making sure that we get the best design possible.”

The re-development of Brentford’s High Street is part of a six year Single Regeneration Partnership that could bring up to £100 million of private investment to Brentford in the coming year. More than ten mayor derelict sites are developed or under construction along the High Street, Kew Bridge Road and the old British Waterway Site bringing new private and affordable housing to Brentford.

The application, by Brentford Town Centre Ltd, is for a mixed development of shops, cafes, restaurants and some living and working accommodation. The existing Market Square on the North side of the High Street would be incorporated into a new larger town square. The river and canal will be opened up with paths and moorings. The plan will also include a range of facilities for a modern town centre.

Whilst many are looking forward to the redevelopment of the town centre concerns have been expressed over the level of control given to developers and the impact that the scheme will have on community life.