As we mark 35 years of West Kent, we’re looking back on our innovative redevelopment, which turned 67 garages in Swanley into 14 new homes for local families.
Pear Tree Close, Swanley, was once home to three garage sites (67 garages) that suffered from anti-social behaviour (ASB) and fly-tipping. The garages eventually became unusable due to their condition, and we saw an opportunity to regenerate them into much-needed warm, affordable housing for the local Swanley community.
The garages were situated within residential areas making the development complex to complete. There were physical issues to overcome such as ownership, rights of way and the challenge of developing complex, tightly bound garage sites. However, through consultation with residents and partnership with the construction firm, Helix, 14 new homes were handed over to local Swanley residents in 2023 and 2024.
Our homes at Pear Tree Close are a mixture of one-bedrooms flats and two and three-bedroom houses, with sustainable technologies like air source heat pumps, solar panels and electric vehicle charging. They are also insulated above levels required by building regulations, with many achieving EPC A. This has kept energy bills low amid the cost-of-living crisis, a key priority as we search for new, innovative ways to support our residents.
We also tailored one of the homes to meet the needs of a local family who have a child with a disability. We worked in partnership with Helix, Sevenoaks District Council and an occupational therapist to provide adaptations, including a through-the-floor wheelchair lift so the resident can safely access the first floor.
Anabel Palmer, Director of Property Development and Partnerships said: “This is a great example of how we can utilise brownfield sites no longer fit for purpose. We’re proud of the work we’ve done and the strong partnership working with Helix, which resulted in 14 new homes that exceed building standards and supported residents to live in a safe and energy-efficient home.”
Watch our video showing the new homes and community
For more information about 35 years of West Kent, visit 35 years of West Kent.