Brent Council plan to demolish two tower blocks as part of regeneration project

South Kilburn’s skyline is set to change after 40 years if plans to demolish two tower blocks are given the green light.

The proposals would see 18-storey Bronte House and Fielding House in Cambridge Road, replaced with two seven-floor alternatives.

Cllr Ann John OBE, leader of Brent council said the scheme, which forms part of the South Kilburn Regeneration Project, would transform the area but conceded that it was lagging behind following the regeneration of a number of nearby estates.

She said: “We have already transformed nearly every estate in the borough, including Chalkhill and Stonebridge but this is an area which is in need of change.

“This will be a fantastic opportunity and is something that is probably overdue for the area and should have been done.”

The plans, if planning permission is granted, would see 229 flats and maisonettes built in place of the tower blocks, residents would be housed in temporary accommodation throughout.

These would be less than half the height of the original building and would also include a grand courtyard for residents and a new public square in Kilburn Park Road.

In addition, it is also thought the public spaces may detract from the gang culture which has blighted the area in recent years.

Cllr John added: “The problem with high density and tower blocks is that there are plenty of places for people to hide and cause trouble.

“I think the scheme will go a long way to helping to stamp out that kind of trouble as we have seen in neighbouring estates.”

Andy Donald, director of regeneration and major projects said residents were ‘eager’ to progress with plans.

He said: “They [the residents] have been living on the estate while many of their neighbours have been moved into temporary accommodation as part of earlier phases of regeneration.

“Now it is their turn, and with such fantastic designs it’s not difficult to see why they are excited.”

A planning application on the scheme is expected to be heard in May.