Specialist Housing for the Homeless in London Borough of Tower Hamlets

Specialist Housing for the Homeless in London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

This former convent was established by The Sisters of Mercy in 1859 but has stood empty for several years. The focus of the religious order has always been the alleviation of poverty and in particular, homelessness.

Following our successful planning application to convert the former convent into specialist housing for the homeless, the underlying ethos being one of shelter, care and compassion can continue in the borough.

The scheme will provide a 24-bed facility with communal spaces which will be managed on behalf of Tower Hamlets Council’s housing team. The safe, secure accommodation will provide temporary homes for vulnerable people, while more permanent housing solutions are arranged.

Planning Considerations

SF Planning established a sound justification for the change of use and associated works required for the conversion. Our submission demonstrated the site’s excellent access to public transport, low risk of flooding and access to amenities and local infrastructure.

In order to consider the acceptability of the scheme, it was necessary to assess it against both the adopted development plan and relevant national planning policy. We demonstrated compliance with the National Planning Policy Framework, The London Plan (2021) and the Tower Hamlets Local Plan (2020).

The site lies adjacent to the Grade II listed St Mary’s Church. The proposals involve no significant external alterations with the main existing built fabric retained. There is no material impact on significance or setting of heritage assets in the vicinity.

Compared to the former use as a convent, the facility may potentially intensify activity levels at the site. To ensure there is no significant adverse amenity impact from noise, waste or antisocial behaviour, a detailed management plan was prepared as part of the application submission.

Working closely with the Tower Hamlets housing team, the design of the facility maximises the available space. All 24 units will be functional for temporary accommodation living and sleeping purposes. Additional communal spaces include shared kitchens, common room and washing facilities as well as improved shared outdoor space.

Overall, a balance is struck between space, functionality and quality of accommodation. The result will be a vital facility, serving the immediate housing needs of the borough and providing mush needed support to local people.

For more information on this successful application to povide specialist housing for the homeless, please contact Paul Jenkins.