Balmoral House in Westminster hits new milestone
Balmoral House in South Pimlico has reached its highest point, marking progress on the next phase of new affordable homes for the Churchill Gardens estate.
Westminster City Council, The Lord Mayor, Cllr Paul Dimoldenberg, and Cllr Ellie Ormsby, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, joined the Wates Residential team on site to help carry out the topping out, celebrating the continued partnership behind the scheme.
Delivered in partnership with Westminster City Council, Balmoral House will provide nine family-sized council homes and a one-bed at 100 per cent social rent. The project forms part of the wider Balmoral and Darwin regeneration, which has already delivered 34 new homes at Darwin House. Once complete, Balmoral House will give local families the space and stability they need to put down long-term roots in their community.
It was a privilege to take part in a tradition like the topping-out ceremony and to see the progress being made at Balmoral House.
“There is significant demand across the city for affordable, family-sized homes. Original plans for the site were not affordable for local families, so we are proud that we revised the scheme as part of our Truly Affordable Housing Strategy to make sure these homes are being delivered at 100 per cent social rent. This ensures families can access high-quality, energy-efficient homes and put down long-term roots in their community.”
Cllr Ellie Ormsby
Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters
A key focus throughout the project has been building strong relationships with residents and creating opportunities that last beyond construction. The team is closely embedded in the community, working alongside existing residents at Darwin House and supporting local people into training and employment. Among them is Ilyas, an 18-year-old Westminster resident who joined the team as an apprentice and has been involved in the build throughout.
Working on the project has been so rewarding, it’s an amazing building. It’s really opened my eyes to the construction industry and how important social value is to creating a legacy for the local community.”
Ilyas
Westminster resident and apprentice
The scheme is also delivering wider social value across Westminster. In addition to work placements, training courses and employment support, our Residential business has contributed over £90,000 to voluntary sector organisations and social enterprises working with local communities. This includes both financial support and staff time to help a range of groups, including micro businesses and start ups, rough sleepers and local schools.
Topping out Balmoral House reflects the strong relationship we have built with Darwin House residents and Westminster City Council.
“Our team are embedded in the community, know people by name and run community programmes that provide ongoing support beyond the delivery of homes.
“By listening to what matters locally, we have supported Westminster residents into apprenticeships and long term roles, helping to leave a positive legacy that lasts long after construction.”
Paul Nicholls
Managing Director for London at Wates Residential
Balmoral House is expected to be completed later this year, with families from the Churchill Gardens estate prioritised for the new homes.
