15 December 2025
Summary: Brent Council’s Planning Committee has approved MTVH plans to transform underused garages on the Chalkhill Estate in Wembley into 61 new social rent homes.
Brent Council’s Planning Committee has approved our plans to transform underused garages on the Chalkhill Estate in Wembley into 61 new social rent homes, helping address the borough’s urgent housing need.
The approval, which is subject to completion of a Section 106 legal agreement securing planning obligations, paves the way to redevelop garages at Havenwood and Kingsgate on the Chalkhill Estate. The scheme will deliver 61 social rent homes across five sensitively integrated residential blocks ranging from three to five storeys.
Designed by BPTW, the proposals include demolishing 105 underused garages and relocating an existing substation, together with associated car parking, cycle storage, refuse storage, amenity space and landscaping. The homes will comprise 18 one bed, 28 two bed, 11 three bed and 4 four bed properties, all meeting or exceeding nationally described space standards and accessibility requirements.
Following extensive consultation with the local community, the development has been shaped to create welcoming streets and green spaces for existing and future residents. Plans include a new multigenerational play space, communal growing gardens and informal play areas, alongside improved footpaths and a layout that maximises passive surveillance. A car free approach is proposed for new residents, with reconfigured parking for existing residents.
Sustainability is central to the design. The scheme is expected to achieve a 65 per cent reduction in regulated carbon emissions, incorporating air source heat pumps, water efficiency measures and a robust sustainable drainage system. Ecological enhancements are planned to secure biodiversity net gain alongside significant urban greening.
The planning application was developed in consultation with residents, community groups and Brent Council. The design respects the estate’s existing character while introducing a contemporary identity. Buildings will complement surrounding homes, with architectural references inspired by the nearby Chalkhill Road Church.
Guy Palmer, Director of Regeneration & Strategic Asset Management, MTVH, said:
“We’re delighted that Brent Council’s Planning Committee has approved this transformation of 105 underused garages, which will bring real benefits to existing and future residents and breathe new life into the area while helping to deliver the social housing the borough desperately needs.
“We’re grateful to residents, councillors and partners for their constructive engagement, and we look forward to seeing these plans come to life.”
Below: Artists’ impressions of the completed redevelopment.
