John Lewis Scheme Approved by Planning Inspector
Green light for massive West Ealing development including over 400 flats
A still from a video showing the development viewed from across the tracks at West Ealing Station. Picture: JLP
May 28, 2025
The government's Planning Inspectorate has approved the John Lewis Partnership's (JLP) proposal to redevelop its Waitrose site in West Ealing.
The decision, announced this Tuesday (27 May), follows JLP's appeal submitted in summer 2024 after Ealing Council failed to determine the application within the required timeframe—a situation known as 'non-determination' .
The approved development includes the demolition of the existing Waitrose store and the construction of 428 build-to-rent homes, of which 83 will be affordable rental units. The plan also features a modernised supermarket, a new public square, community facilities, and commercial spaces.
Located just 350 metres from the West Ealing Crossrail station, the project aligns with the government's emphasis on utilising brownfield sites near transport hubs to address housing shortages.
Despite significant local opposition—highlighted by over 700 objections and concerns about building heights and the proportion of affordable housing—Ealing Council chose not to contest the appeal. The council cited potential legal costs and the evolving National Planning Policy Framework as reasons for their decision.
Justine Sullivan, the Co-chair of the Stop The Towers (STT) group, which has campaigned against the development said, "This decision by the Inspector is the nail in the coffin of any pretence that Ealing Council is interested in the views of residents. They are not. In fact they play a game, pretending to oppose towers, whilst simultaneously bending over backwards to promote Ealing as one big development site.
"Peter Mason (Leader of Ealing’s Labour run council) is squarely to blame for this desecration of Ealing borough, with Cllr Shital Manro selling out Ealing to the lowest bidder.
"On one hand Mason claim’s to want 'much needed new homes', yet the Inspector noted only 14 affordable homes were actually built in 2023-24. Meanwhile local residents see new tower blocks going up all over the place, none of which will help our homeless, or lower paid key workers.
"STT is calling time on Peter Mason. We need houses for Ealing’s homeless, not flats for investors. Stop selling out our borough Mr Mason."
Katherine Russell, director of build-to-rent at JLP, said, “We’re pleased that the Inspector has found in favour of the multimillion-pound investment that will create vital new housing and a modernised Waitrose store to serve a community we have been part of for decades.
“The decision underpins a clear policy commitment to supporting brownfield development close to key transport hubs.
“We will continue to work closely with local people to bring forward the development responsibly and ensure it delivers long-term benefits, both to residents and the wider community as a whole.”
With the Planning Inspectorate's approval, construction is expected to commence in 2026, aiming for completion by 2029.
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