Hillingdon Council’s Cabinet has given the green light to plans for a major redevelopment project in Yiewsley, which aims to utilise a vacant brownfield site to address several community needs.
The former swimming pool and Falling Lane site, unused for more than a decade, will be transformed to create affordable homes, a new library, and a community facility for the residents.
The decision to proceed with the project came after the council revised its development plans based on valuable feedback from local residents. The proposed redevelopment of the 5,066 square meter site promises significant social, economic, and environmental benefits for the area.
The redevelopment plans boast several highlights, including a considerably larger new library and community facility that will provide enhanced access to educational and recreational resources for the local community.
Additionally, the project includes the construction of modern, purpose-built affordable housing, prioritising inclusivity and accessibility with wheelchair-accessible properties and adhering to space standards. The development also aspires to be energy-efficient, seeking to lower utility bills for residents while contributing to the area’s environmental sustainability.
Residents can look forward to improved access to the recreation ground, offering better amenities for leisure and well-being, and an increase in play space for children, encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle. The plans include an eco-friendly initiative to enhance the natural environment, involving the planting of more trees and the creation of a beautifully landscaped garden on the site of the old bowling green
Additionally, the project aligns with the ongoing construction of a new leisure centre in West Drayton, which will further contribute to the area’s recreational opportunities.
Leader of Hillingdon Council, Cllr Ian Edwards, said: “It is imperative that we make best use of brownfield sites adjacent to our town centres. The former pool site provides an exciting opportunity for the council to bring more investment into Yiewsley and to provide a bigger and better library, community space, affordable housing and environmental improvements to Yiewsley Recreation Ground.
“It will enhance residents’ quality of life by delivering on three of our Council Strategy commitments of building strong communities with access to good quality, affordable housing; providing community and leisure spaces to create thriving, healthy households; and developing a greener and more sustainable borough.”
Importantly, the council has clarified that it has no intention of developing the amenity space of Yiewsley Recreation Ground, which was designated as Metropolitan Open Space in January 2020, ensuring its continued protection.
The ambitious redevelopment plans are set to be submitted for planning consent later this summer or early autumn.
