Exciting plans for a new community centre and affordable housing one step closer

Designs for a new Community Centre and affordable housing scheme in the heart of Teddington have been submitted for planning approval.Earlier this year, the Council asked local people for their views on proposals for a new fit-for-purpose Community Centre on the North Lane East Car Park and former run down depot site, funded by 100% affordable housing on the existing Elleray Hall site.Elleray Hall in Teddington is home to a popular daytime Social Centre for residents across the borough. The current building, including the original section constructed in 1911, has reached the end of its useful life. As well as being beyond repair, it is too costly to maintain and heat. The vision for the proposed Community Centre secures a new facility at the heart of the local community.It will continue to offer a wide variety of services to older residents, but because of its flexible design, it will also be able to host events, classes and activities aimed at a wider range of groups and individuals. If plans get the green light, it will mean current users will be able to move from the old facility and into the new one overnight.Over 200 local people voiced their opinion on the proposals. Around 70% agreed that the proposed design for the new Centre would allow a greater range of users and increased utilisation of the Centre. As a result of the feedback from our community conversations, the designs submitted for planning consideration include changes to window pitches (to ensure privacy for those who live nearby), increased mature landscaping and an additional car club bay in North Lane West car park.As part of the Planning process, a Statutory Consultation will be carried out. It is expected that the proposal will go to the Planning Committee later in the year.