MCR Property Group’s plans to regenerate the former Feltham Magistrates’ Court into 28 new homes and apartments have been approved by the London Borough of Hounslow Council.
The Victorian courthouse, originally built in 1902 as Feltham Town Hall, has remained derelict since 2016 but will now undergo a significant conversion to see this landmark building brought back to life. Project partners, MCR Property Group and rg+p will create a mixed tenure residential development, designed to emphasise and preserve the historic character of the building, which is also locally listed.
Architect and director at rg+p, Grant Giblett explains: “Due to the prominence of Feltham Magistrates’ Court within its context and the local significance the building holds, it was important that the design took a conservation-led approach. We wanted to sensitively re-imagine this landmark building for residential use whilst being respectful of local character and heritage. Our approved design features a material palette and brick bond akin to the neighbourhood and also emphasises the existing building’s fenestration, rhythm and detail.
“By re-purposing the former Magistrates’ Court and complementing this with new two and three storey buildings, we believe this will achieve a blend of old and new that is sustainable and an attractive environment for both residents and the wider community.”
Working collaboratively, MCR Property Group and rg+p has engaged extensively with the local community to deliver a scheme of real benefit, including consultations with both the Victorian Society and Old Feltham Resident’s Association.
Chris Taylor, asset manager at MCR Property Group, said: “Our plans for Feltham Magistrates’ Court directly responded to calls to preserve the entirety of this much-loved Victorian landmark. We believe our vision for this site honours its historical nature, while bringing forward the best mix of high-quality housing to meet local demand. We are extremely pleased with the successful outcome of this planning application and anticipate building work to commence early 2021.”
The approved development will see the creation of 28 new one, two and three bedroom properties for private sale and discount market sale of 32%. 17 studios and apartments will be in the refurbished Magistrates’ Court alongside 11 apartments and maisonettes in the new build elements. Some of the homes will benefit from private balconies and the development also includes a residents’ private roof terrace. On site parking is available, with eight car parking spaces, including two for electric vehicles, and 52 cycle spaces.
Situated on Hanworth Road in the town centre, Feltham Magistrates’ Court is easily accessible by road, rail and air. “Feltham is a commuter hotspot that is well served by excellent travel links into the city via London Waterloo as well as the M25 and Heathrow Airport,” added Chris Taylor. “We’re confident this development will enhance the local community and provide high-specification new homes that are ideal for first-time buyers, young professionals or families.”
