Grosvenor Edgware Road is a significant mixed-use development located in northwest London, situated on the site of the former NetJets hangar. The project was developed by Grosvenor, one of the largest private developers and landowners in the UK. This article aims to provide an overview of the development, its history, features, and significance.
History of the Site
The Edgware Road area has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Archaeological excavations have Grosvenor Edgware Road revealed evidence of human activity from the Mesolithic period (around 8,000 years ago). The modern Edgware Road was formed as part of the A5 road connecting London to Birmingham in the late 18th century.
NetJets Hangar
For decades, a NetJets hangar occupied the site where Grosvenor Edgware Road now stands. This large industrial facility provided storage and maintenance space for private aircraft owned by high-net-worth individuals. The hangar’s proximity to Heathrow Airport facilitated quick access to London’s international airports.
Grosvenor Acquires the Site
In 2009, Grosvenor acquired a significant portion of land along Edgware Road from the owner of the NetJets hangar. This transaction marked the beginning of Grosvenor’s plans for large-scale redevelopment in this area.
Planning and Development
Following acquisition, Grosvenor undertook an extensive consultation process with local stakeholders to ensure the development would respect the character of the neighborhood while addressing pressing issues such as traffic congestion and pedestrian accessibility. The resulting masterplan included a mix of residential units (including apartments and townhouses), retail space, restaurants, cafes, and public open spaces.
In 2013, Grosvenor announced its intention to invest £350 million in this transformational project, aiming for completion within three years. However, actual construction began later than expected due to the complexity of acquiring all necessary consents from local authorities.
Types of Accommodation
Grosvenor Edgware Road features an array of living spaces catering to diverse lifestyle requirements and budgets:
- Residential Apartments : Designed with modern amenities like secure underground car parking, residents’ lounges, landscaped courtyards, and floor-to-ceiling glazing.
- Luxury Townhouses : Spacious properties offering expansive rooms for entertaining guests or family use; typically three to five bedrooms per house.
- Small-Craft Studios (SCS) : Compact residential units suitable for singles or couples seeking a convenient location close to employment hubs.
Retail and Commercial Spaces
The Edgware Road area was historically known for its busy market stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and other goods. In this respect, Grosvenor’s development sought to revitalize the commercial landscape:
- High-Street Retail : Encouraging high-end retailers such as a major bookstore chain and fine food specialist stores.
- Food Outlets & Cafés : Offering an eclectic mix of global cuisines catering for various dietary preferences within walking distance from each home or workplace.
- Mixed Commercial Space (MCS) : Office areas that combine flexibility, greenery, natural lighting & air quality while creating a professional setting.
Landscaping and Open Spaces
In keeping with its focus on sustainability and enhancing community life:
- Green Roofs : Incorporating rooftop gardens or planters providing both habitat creation and thermal insulation for homes.
- Courtyards : Including tranquil areas accessible from inside flats & houses to offer peace amidst bustle without impacting local public space demands.
Social Responsibility
Grosvenor recognizes the importance of incorporating its community projects into such developments, aiming at achieving net positive outcomes on environment as well:
- Community Engagement : Aiming regular public forums where residents can raise queries regarding any aspect ranging from maintenance schedules to cultural events.
- Advancement towards achieving zero waste targets through recycling programs designed specifically for materials generated within residential areas and commercial units alike.
Overall Impact
Grosvenor Edgware Road transforms a former industrial site into thriving neighborhoods – injecting vibrant streetlife while integrating modernity, eco-friendliness & history intertwined seamlessly across London cityscapes today.