Mount Close Estate Redevelopment Gets Go-ahead

138 flats to be built despite nearly a hundred objections

A visualisation of the proposed new development. Picture: Bell Phillips Architects

October 29, 2025

Ealing Council’s Planning Committee has unanimously approved the redevelopment of the Mount Close Estate following a meeting held last Wednesday ( 22 October). The decision clears the way for a transformation of the 1950s residential estate, increasing the number of housing units from 40 to 178 through a phased Build-to-Rent scheme led by Dolphin Living.

The approved plan includes 138 net additional flats, 11 re-provided units, and the refurbishment of 29 existing dwellings. A key feature of the scheme is the delivery of 50% affordable housing by habitable room for the new units, all offered at Discount Market Rent (DMR). A Section 106 agreement will secure 65 affordable units, with rents set at a mix of London Living Rent and DMR levels.

The development will introduce buildings ranging from four to six storeys, with the tallest blocks positioned along Castlebar Road. While the site is not within a conservation area, it lies within the setting of several, including Mount Park and Montpelier Park. A townscape and heritage assessment concluded that the scheme would cause “less than substantial harm” to nearby heritage assets, a level of impact deemed acceptable in light of the public benefits.

The developer is projecting a 79% reduction in CO₂ emissions through technologies such as photovoltaic panels and exhaust-air source heat pumps. A carbon offset payment of £97,782 has also been made.

The refurbishment of retained flats will include new windows and doors, mechanical ventilation, improved insulation, and modern kitchens and bathrooms. The wider estate will have new communal gardens, play areas, enhanced lighting, and improved refuse and cycle storage. Most existing trees will be retained, with 68 new trees added although some mature trees are being renewed.

Despite these features, the application drew significant public opposition. Of the 103 comments received during consultation, 92 were objections. Concerns focused on building height, density, and the perceived mismatch between the proposed architecture and the surrounding neighbourhood, which is largely composed of 2–4 storey homes. Some residents argued that the scheme would erode the area’s suburban character and increase pressure on local infrastructure.

The proposal described the existing estate as 'car-dominated'

Critics also questioned the affordability of the housing offer, noting the reliance on DMR rather than social rent or other tenures. The limited number of family-sized units and the site’s low Public Transport Accessibility Level (PTAL) were cited as further drawbacks. Others raised ecological concerns, including the removal of mature trees and the impact on biodiversity.

The planning report acknowledged these concerns but concluded that the scheme aligns with the London Plan’s strategic objectives and delivers a range of public benefits. These include affordable housing, sustainability improvements, and investment in local infrastructure through over £1.1 million in financial contributions secured via the Section 106 agreement.

Councillor Julian Gallant, who ultimately voted in favour of the development,said at the hearing, “I had listened to the objection tonight, I had concerns about some of the height of the highest blocks – six storeys – that they aren’t necessarily in keeping with the architecture of the local area.

“I wrestled with that but I really do think that Dolphin [the developer] has made an effort to make this a pleasant place to live in. It’s got openness… greenery, amenity, and they’ve made a big effort to do that, and crucially it’s 50 per cent affordable housing [by habitable room] right in the middle of Ealing.”

The redevelopment will be delivered in two main phases, with measures in place to minimise disruption to existing residents. Dolphin Living has committed to rehousing original pre-2016 residents during construction and providing tailored accommodation upon completion.