Merton 'to be transformed' by Mitcham development

A flagship development is set to transform part of Merton and provide much-needed housing.

The planned development at Rowan Park in Mitcham will see the site of a former school turned into a 2.6-hectare landscaped public park and 217 properties - consisting of 131 family homes and 86 apartments. The project should be good news for anyone after property to rent in Mitcham, as it will increase the number of options open to them.

And the original school building is going to be the focal point of the development, as it is being turned into 27 apartments. As well as giving residents somewhere to relax, the park also acts as a water drainage area thanks to the system of marshes, reed beds and ponds.

Such is the quality of the plan, it has been recognised at the Housing Design Awards, scooping the 2012 Project Winner accolade. It was one of six developments praised for their quality. As part of the plan, each home will meet high-end design specifications, including the installation of solar panels on the roof.

It is expected people will be able to save £500 a year through the Feed-in Tariff scheme run by the government. Under the terms of the deal, individuals are able to sell any excess electricity back to the national grid.

Councillor Andrew Judge, Merton Council's cabinet member for environmental sustainability and regeneration, described the win as "very gratifying", adding: "From the outset nine years ago, we aimed to achieve an exemplary eco-development featuring a high quality of design, strong eco credentials and integration with new public green and open space."

The politician observed Rowan Park represents the "forefront of innovative and sustainable design" and will be the benchmark for any future developments in the area. Judges at the awards reserved particular praise for the work of the designers, as they felt they went beyond the sustainability brief to give the area a new identity that could act as a blueprint for London suburbs.

Posted by Chris Price

Published 29th June, 2012

© 2012 Estates IT Limited