The Greater London Authority has approved London Square and Future Academies’ plans for the transformation of the Phoenix Academy and delivery of new homes in White City, Hammersmith.
The scheme will provide a £42million investment in the Phoenix Academy, a co-educational secondary school and sixth form, funding modern new educational facilities to support current and future generations of pupils. These will include new teaching and learning spaces, improved facilities for students and staff, and enhanced community-accessible sports and performance spaces.
The development will also deliver 307 new homes, 90 of which will be social rent homes (37%), including 36 three-bed and 20 four-bed homes.
The approval follows the Mayor of London’s call-in of the application, and marks a major milestone for the project, which has been designed to address two of London’s most pressing challenges: providing quality educational facilities without reliance on public subsidy and delivering new homes.
Lawrence Foley, Chief Executive of Future Academies, said: “Today’s decision is a hugely significant moment for Phoenix Academy, its pupils, staff and the wider community. For many years, we have been seeking a way to provide facilities that match the outstanding achievements of our students and teachers. This approval creates that opportunity.”
“This scheme is about much more than new buildings. It is about providing young people with the environment, facilities and opportunities they deserve to fulfil their potential. Just as importantly, it will help families stay, and succeed, in the borough. We are grateful to the GLA for recognising the importance of securing the future of one of West London’s educational success stories while helping address London’s housing challenge.”
Jo McDonagh, Managing Director, North of London Square, added: “This approval reflects six years of collaboration between Future Academies, London Square, local stakeholders and partners to develop a scheme that delivers significant public benefits.”
“As a dedicated London developer, we pride ourselves in being able to unlock challenging sites, where others might walk away. We are very proud that this scheme can now help deliver the necessary £42million required to rebuild the school and also provide significant opportunities to the wider community.”
“We look forward to continuing our work with Future Academies, the GLA, Hammersmith & Fulham Council and local residents to ensure the project delivers lasting benefits for White City and for future generations.”
Following the planning approval, the delivery partners will continue working closely with Hammersmith & Fulham Council, local residents, pupils, parents and community organisations to ensure the scheme delivers long-term value for the area.
This includes expanding opportunities for young people throughout delivery, including pupil engagement, skills initiatives and pathways into employment, helping ensure the project creates benefits that extend beyond the site boundary.
