Rectory Lane, Sidcup

The Oakwood Group negotiated the purchase of this former Toyota dealership site off Sidcup High Street, on a subject to planning permission basis, amidst strong competition from residential and commercial developers alike.

The proposal was carefully assembled in consultation with the local planning authority and comprised of 23 apartments and 14 family houses with associated parking and soft landscaped areas. Pre-application discussions were positive and the scheme was recommended for approval by professional officers, only to be refused by the Development Control Committee.

The site presented a significant challenge in planning terms following refusal of the initial planning application on grounds of overdevelopment, excessive building height, non-conformity with building line, insufficient parking and character.

The Oakwood Group lodged a Public Local Inquiry against the decision of the Local Authority and following a complex and lengthy process, the Planning Inspectorate granted permission for the development.

We worked in partnership with one of LB Bexley’s Housing Association Partners, Gallions HA, to deliver the dwellings with a range of affordable and market tenures. The construction was procured via a design and build contract and the buildings provide much needed, high quality family sized residential accommodation constructed using timber frame technology with facing brick, render, and timber clad elevations.

The site lies within Sidcup Town Centre which offers extensive shopping and recreational facilities. In addition, the immediate vicinity provides local shops and schools as well as an abundance of public transport facilities, bus and train services.

Construction commenced 1st Quarter 2011 and completed April 2012 ahead of programme.