Sector: Local plan

A large-scale application for a new residential development of 559 new homes of political, regional, and local importance. The site was allocated in the Bexley Local Plan and has an allocation of GLA funding.

Former Electrobase site, Crayford

Purelake New Homes and Skillcrown Homes, London Borough of Bexley - Status: Planning application approved

Our role: Chess Engage were recommended and invited to bid for the commission. We successfully secured the contract to lead a programme of engagement on revised plans for a consent scheme.

Our approach: Our approach centred around an extensive programme of stakeholder engagement. This included engagement with key political stakeholders including the MP for Bexley and Crayford, the Leader of the Bexley Council, Portfolio Holders, and ward councillors.

Recognising the importance of biodiversity and wildlife locally we collaborated closely with the Bexley Natural Environment Forum (BNEF) during the consultation process to identify opportunities for enhancing site wildlife and biodiversity. We led a site tour with the BNEF, fostering a direct dialogue and encouraging the exchange of ideas on sustainable development practices.

Results:

• The feedback from stakeholder engagement and public exhibition was instrumental in refining the project plans. Adjustments were made to the overall scheme, notably a reduction in height, an increase in walking and cycling routes, and improvements to the highway infrastructure.
• The planning application was approved by the Planning Committee of the London Borough of Bexley on 13th April 2023.
• The consented proposals enabled funding to be accessed from the Greater London Authority to support the delivery of affordable housing as part of the application.
• Wider community benefits included the creation of a new riverside walk alongside the River Cray, a new publicly accessible landscape, and enhancements to biodiversity.