A structural review carried out in 2021 by Barnet Council found the blocks in Brunswick Park were at “disproportionate risk of collapse”, reports Grace Howarth, Local Democracy Reporter

The redevelopment plans (credit Pollard Thomas Edwards) and (inset Holmsdale House) — The redevelopment plans (credit Pollard Thomas Edwards) and (inset) Holmsdale House)

Plans to redevelop two almost-empty residential blocks in Brunswick Park have been submitted – after fears were raised they could “collapse”.

Stanhope and Holmsdale House in Coppies Grove Estate will be demolished and 57 new homes built in their place.

Both blocks currently contain 16 self-contained flats and are four storeys in height. However, a structural review carried out in 2021 by Barnet Council found that due to the now discredited ‘large panel system’ design used for the blocks they were at “disproportionate risk of collapse”.

The assessment also found the buildings did not conform to current fire safety requirements and that the cost to remediate them was estimated to be £5million.

The planning application also states the properties are in “poor” condition with issues such as “damp and mould” being common throughout.

Barnet Homes, the council’s housing arm, has already begun decanting and rehoming affected residents and, as of last month, 23 of the 32 homes were empty.

Three remaining social housing occupants are receiving support from the council to find alternative accommodation, while five leaseholders are subject to ongoing purchase negotiations.

The 57 new homes, of which at least 50% will be affordable, will be split across two blocks of five and six storeys, plus eight four-bedroom houses.

In terms of tenure, 28 of the properties will be private sale homes and 29 affordable. Of the affordable homes, 21 will be social rent and eight designated for shared ownership.

More information on the scheme can be found via Barnet Council’s planning portal, using reference number 25/2435/FUL.

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