The London Borough of Wandsworth hosted its inaugural Developer Forum at Battersea Power Station this week, bringing together developers, investors, landowners, and infrastructure partners. The event aimed to foster direct conversations about delivering new homes, jobs, and successful places.
Over 100 representatives from the development and investment sectors met with Cabinet Members and senior council officers. Discussions focused on how earlier engagement, clearer expectations, and stronger partnerships can facilitate high-quality development.
Councillor Robert Morritt, Leader of Wandsworth Council, declared a new chapter for the borough, stating, "This borough is open for business once again, and we're ready to work with partners who share our ambition to deliver high-quality homes and successful places." He emphasised the council's commitment to being practical, reliable, and clear on development proposals to create lasting value for residents through better infrastructure, neighbourhoods, jobs, and thriving local businesses.
The council also committed to a new Growth Plan supporting diverse housing choices, including affordable options, alongside necessary infrastructure and investment. The forum highlighted Wandsworth's strengths, such as major regeneration areas, transport connections, a skilled population, and a proven track record in delivering new homes, exemplified by developments in Battersea and Nine Elms.
James Saunders, Chief Executive of Battersea Power Station Development Company, expressed delight in hosting the event. He noted the constructive dialogue and close working relationship with the Council as key to the success of the Battersea Power Station neighbourhood, which has welcomed over 50 million visitors since October 2022. Future plans include developing the remaining 16 acres into 3.2 million sq ft of residential, commercial, and leisure space, creating thousands of local jobs.
Opportunities for development extend beyond Nine Elms and Clapham Junction to Wandsworth Town and other sites across the borough. The Developer Forums are central to the council's strategy to strengthen relationships with the development sector and encourage early discussions on viable, high-quality proposals.
