West London Mount Close: Six New Blocks & 178 Homes Approved

Key Points

• Ealing Council’s Planning Committee approved redevelopment of a 1950s estate in Mount Close, West London.
• Plan includes six new blocks of flats, refurbishment of four existing blocks, and demolition of two blocks.
• Net increase of 138 homes, with a total of 178 homes on site after redevelopment.
• 65 of the new flats will be affordable, offered as Discount Market Rent.
• Highest block will be six storeys; buildings range between four and six storeys.
• Development led by Dolphin Living, an affordable housing charity for London’s intermediate earners.
• Car parking limited to long-term residents and blue badge holders; future tenants banned from parking permits.
• Ealing Council received 103 public representations: 92 objections and 11 letters of support.
• Concerns raised about family-sized homes, genuine affordability, and building height.
• Council officers and some councillors defended the scheme’s balance and suitability of height.
• £1 million-plus in Section 106 contributions will fund education and healthcare infrastructure.

What is the scope of the new housing development in Mount Close, West London?

As reported by MyLondon journalist, the redevelopment plan approved by Ealing Council’s Planning Committee encompasses the construction of six new blocks of flats and the refurbishment of four existing blocks at the 1950s estate in Mount Close, located just 1km from Ealing Broadway station. The estate currently comprises 40 homes across six blocks, with two blocks designated for demolition. Following the redevelopment, there will be a net increase of 138 homes, resulting in a total of 178 homes on the site.

All the homes will be built to rent, with the scheme offering a mixture of sizes: 89 one-bedroom flats, 46 two-bedroom flats, and three three-bedroom properties. Of these, 65 will be affordable homes supplied under the Discount Market Rent scheme.

Dolphin Living, an affordable housing charity focusing on high-quality homes for intermediate earners in London, will deliver the development. The tallest block will be six storeys high, while the rest will range between four and six storeys.

How will parking be managed in the redevelopment?

According to Ealing Council’s official statements relayed through MyLondon, car parking will be provided but strictly regulated. Only residents who have lived on the estate since before 2016, and residents with blue badges, will have access to parking permits. Future tenants will be banned from obtaining parking permits, a measure designed to mitigate increased traffic and parking strain in the area.

What public reaction and concerns have emerged about the plans?

Ealing Council received a total of 103 representations during the consultation phase, with 92 objections and 11 letters supporting the redevelopment. The objections primarily raised concerns about the scarcity of family-sized homes and the genuine affordability of the proposed flats.

There were also vocal worries related to architecture and building heights. The proposed blocks reaching six storeys were seen by some residents as inconsistent with the local neighbourhood’s character.

Councillor Julian Gallant, who voted in favour of the scheme, acknowledged these concerns during the Planning Committee meeting on 22 October 2025. As reported by MyLondon, he said:

“I had listened to the objection tonight, I had concerns about some of the height of the highest blocks – six storeys – that they aren’t necessarily in keeping with the architecture of the local area. I wrestled with that but I really do think that Dolphin has made an effort to make this a pleasant place to live in. It’s got openness… greenery, amenity, and they’ve made a big effort to do that, and crucially it’s 50 per cent affordable housing [by habitable room] right in the middle of Ealing.”

Council officers justified the height by pointing out that the tallest blocks are strategically sited along Castlebar Road, a main thoroughfare where greater density is deemed appropriate.

What is the rationale behind the housing mix and density?

Officers highlighted that the existing estate includes 17 two-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom homes. The redevelopment introduces more one-bedroom homes to optimise the site-wide housing mix, aiming for a more balanced provision. While some criticise the reduction in larger family units, council officials argue that the mix better fits current need and site constraints.

How does the development address affordable housing needs in Ealing?

Affordability is a central feature of the project. Dolphin Living emphasises its mission to provide high-quality affordable homes, particularly targeting Londoners on intermediate incomes. The scheme’s 65 Discount Market Rent flats contribute to addressing a decline in affordable housing starts within the borough. As noted by MyLondon coverage, affordable housing starts in Ealing plummeted by nearly 100 per cent, amounting to only 13 new affordable homes starting construction in the 2023/24 period.

The Planning Committee and local councillors stressed the importance of increasing affordable housing supply within Ealing to meet housing demand.

How will potential pressures on local services be managed?

Some objectors expressed fears that the new development could exert additional strain on local health services, schools, and community facilities. Council officers responded by detailing the proposed Section 106 legal agreement that secures developer contributions to local infrastructure.

The developer has committed to over £1 million in Section 106 payments, including £361,905 dedicated to education infrastructure and £66,000 earmarked for healthcare provisions. These funds are intended to mitigate impact and support enhancements to local services resulting from population growth.

What are the prospects and next steps for the Mount Close redevelopment?

With unanimous Planning Committee approval, the project now moves into delivery phases under Dolphin Living’s stewardship. The emphasis on affordable housing, enhanced public amenities, and regulated parking reflects the council’s attempt to balance growth with community concerns.

Continued dialogue between residents, local authority, and the developer will be key to successful regeneration while preserving neighbourhood character and ensuring needed housing supply.