Appropriation approved to facilitate Yiewsley redevelopment
Friday 4 August, 2023: Hillingdon Council's Cabinet has given the green light to appropriate vacant brownfield land for planning purposes at the former swimming pool and Falling Lane site in Yiewsley that hasn't been used in more than 10 years so it can be used to build vital affordable homes, a new library and community facility for residents.
The new proposals for the 5,066 square metre site, include the following social, economic and environmental wellbeing benefits:
- Providing a considerably larger new library and community facility
- Building affordable housing that is modern, fit for purpose and meets or exceeds space standards and includes wheelchair accessible properties
- Creating an energy efficient development that will lower bills for residents
- Improving access to the recreation ground
- Providing more play space for children
- Planting more trees and creating a landscaped garden on the site of the old bowling green
Additional leisure opportunities will be delivered through the new leisure centre currently being constructed in West Drayton.
The redevelopment plans are expected to be submitted for planning consent later this summer/early autumn.
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."
The council reiterates that it has no intention of developing the amenity space of Yiewsley Recreation Ground, land which the council designated Metropolitan Open Space in January 2020, as part of its Local Plan Part 2, to ensure its continued protection. The proposed development site is considered brownfield and consists largely of existing hardstanding that hasn't been used in more than 10 years.