Next Phase of Acton Gardens Gains Safety Approval
Clears way for completion and occupation of 236 new flats
A visualisation of the newly approved phase of the development. Picture: Vistry
September 22, 2025
The Acton Gardens redevelopment scheme has reached a significant milestone with the approval of two new phases that will enable the delivery of 236 flats. The decision, granted by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), allows the developers to move ahead with construction on Phases 8.1 and 8.2—part of a wider transformation of the former South Acton estate into a mixed-use neighbourhood.
The scheme, led by Vistry and housing association L&Q, is one of West London’s largest estate redevelopment projects. It spans 52 acres and will eventually deliver 3,463 homes, half of which are designated as affordable. Alongside housing, the masterplan includes a community centre, nursery, medical facilities, sports and play areas, and over 500,000 square feet of public space.
The latest phases, designed by architects Stitch, will provide flats across a mix of tenures, including social rent, shared ownership and private sale. Construction is already underway on Phases 9.3, 9.5 and 9.6, which will add a further 207 flats. To date, 2,189 homes have been completed, with the 1,000th affordable unit handed over earlier this year.
While the Gateway 2 approvals mark an important step forward, they do not represent final clearance. Under the Building Safety Act, all higher-risk residential buildings must pass through three regulatory gateways: planning, pre-construction (Gateway 2), and post-construction (Gateway 3). The latter, which confirms compliance before occupation, remains pending and has become a source of delay across the sector.
The approvals at Acton Gardens are the first granted to Vistry under the new regime and come amid mounting pressure on the BSR, which has faced criticism for slow processing times. In nearby Bollo Lane, the newly built Bookbinder Point development remains unoccupied more than a year after completion due to unresolved Gateway 3 issues—reportedly triggered by minor signage non-compliance.
Nick Churcher, Managing Director for Vistry West London, said the dual approvals “speak volumes about our collaborative approach and commitment to building safety.” Caroline Pillay, Regeneration Director for L&Q, added: “Resident safety is paramount to everything we do, and we are delighted to have unlocked the delivery of more much-needed homes locally.”
Just a short distance from Acton Gardens, Transport for London (TfL) is advancing its own major development along Bollo Lane. The scheme, led by TfL’s property arm Places for London in partnership with Barratt London, will deliver over 900 homes across nine blocks ranging from four to 25 storeys.
Following outline planning approval in 2021, enabling works are currently underway, with main construction expected to begin this October. The first phase will deliver 195 flats for private and affordable rent, while the second phase—recently amended and approved by Ealing Council—will provide 455 homes, alongside expanded business space and improved public realm.
The Bollo Lane development also includes new green spaces, pedestrian infrastructure, and a relocated bus stop to enhance connectivity between Acton and Chiswick. TfL’s consultation process engaged thousands of local residents and transport users, reflecting a strong emphasis on community involvement.
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