Transport Secretary Louise Haigh has made a significant decision to overturn the previous government’s ban on new housing at Cockfosters tube station car park, City Hall confirmed today. This controversial move had stalled a Transport for London scheme for 350 new homes for almost three-and-a-half years, causing frustration and delays for those in need of affordable housing in the area.
The housing scheme, which includes four tower blocks of up to 14 storeys in height, was approved on a casting vote by Enfield Council’s planning committee in February 2022. Despite facing 2,852 objections and opposition from local Labour MP Bambos Charalambous and the then Conservative MP Theresa Villiers, the scheme was deemed necessary by planners who argued that the borough was in desperate need of new housing options.
The development at Cockfosters station car park aligns with national and City Hall policies supporting development on “under-utilized brownfield sites in highly accessible locations.” Additionally, most drivers using the car park have alternative forms of public transport available, making the conversion of the space into residential units a viable option for meeting housing targets in the borough.
Support for the housing scheme came from various stakeholders, including transport campaigners in the borough and the Enfield Society, founded in 1936. The Enfield Society highlighted to the council that the station car park was a “poor use of space” and that residential development on brownfield sites was essential to help meet housing targets in the borough.
Despite the overwhelming support for the development, former Conservative MP Theresa Villiers, often referred to as the “patron saint of Nimbyism,” continued to lobby the then transport secretary Grant Shapps to protect the car park around the Grade II-listed station. Villiers argued that the car park served an important “park-and-ride function” for commuters using the Piccadilly Line.
Grant Shapps made a controversial decision using the “backstop” powers in the GLA Act 1999, which required Whitehall consent for the sale of “operational” TfL land. Shapps blocked the scheme on the grounds that the proposed retention of 47 parking spaces, including 12 blue badge spaces and short-stay pick-up/drop-off parking, would be inadequate to meet the needs of commuters using the station.
Despite efforts by TfL to reverse the ban, including seeking approval from the communities secretary Michael Gove, the project remained stalled until Louise Haigh’s intervention. This decision marks a significant shift in approach from the new Labour national government and is anticipated to have a positive impact on regional growth in the suburbs.
Louise Haigh expressed her delight in unblocking the development project at Cockfosters station, emphasizing the government’s commitment to getting Britain building and working with local leaders to boost regional growth. The decision was met with approval from London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who highlighted the importance of building homes near public transport connections to meet the housing needs of Londoners.
Impact on the Community
The approval of the housing scheme at Cockfosters station will have a profound impact on the local community. The development of 350 new homes, with 40% designated as affordable housing, will provide much-needed accommodation for individuals and families in Enfield. The inclusion of affordable housing options is crucial in addressing the housing crisis and ensuring that everyone has access to safe and secure housing.
By approving the scheme, the government is not only addressing the immediate need for housing but also contributing to the overall growth and development of the borough. The construction of new homes will create jobs in the area, stimulate economic activity, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents in Enfield.
Political Ramifications
The decision to overturn the ban on the housing scheme at Cockfosters station carries significant political implications. It highlights the government’s commitment to prioritizing housing development and addressing the housing shortage in the UK. By supporting the construction of new homes in accessible locations, the government is demonstrating its dedication to building a better future for all citizens.
Additionally, the decision reflects a shift in approach from the previous government’s policies, which prioritized the protection of car parks over the development of much-needed housing. This change in direction signifies a renewed focus on addressing the housing crisis and working towards creating sustainable communities that meet the needs of residents across the country.
Future Development Opportunities
The approval of the housing scheme at Cockfosters station opens up opportunities for future development in the area. By converting under-utilized brownfield sites into residential units, the government is setting a precedent for utilizing available land to address housing needs. This approach can be replicated in other boroughs facing similar challenges and can serve as a model for sustainable development in urban areas.
The success of the Cockfosters housing scheme demonstrates the potential for collaboration between local authorities, transport agencies, and community groups to create innovative solutions to housing shortages. By working together to identify suitable sites for development and engaging with stakeholders to address concerns, future housing projects can be implemented more efficiently and effectively.
In conclusion, the approval of the housing scheme at Cockfosters station is a significant milestone in addressing the housing crisis in Enfield and beyond. By prioritizing the construction of new homes in accessible locations, the government is taking proactive steps to meet the needs of residents and stimulate economic growth in the region. This decision marks a positive shift in approach towards housing development and sets a precedent for future projects that prioritize affordability, accessibility, and sustainability.