Network Rail unveils new housing sites in London and south east

Network Rail has unveiled a series of new sites for development as part of plans to provide land for 12,000 homes by 2020.

The first package brings together a selection of sites within Greater London and the South East, including two in Bermondsey, new residential and commercial space in Leyton, redevelopment opportunities in Edenbridge, Kent and new land and homes alongside an improved station in Bickley.

Network Rail said the plots of land have the potential to deliver almost 3,000 housing units alongside commercial space, “delivering much needed homes and an economic boost for the surrounding areas”.

The packages are being launched to help the organisation reach its housing target in three years’ time. It has so far released more than a quarter of its target and in the last 12 months has released land to deliver over 2,100 new homes.

These sites within the packages sit alongside around 200 development sites that Network Rail has already identified for housing, many of which it said are already being progressed.

The organisation has also announced it is changing the way it works with developers. This will include a new approach to insurance and risk cover, a new advisory service and a new service level commitment for asset protection, details of which will be published in full over the next six months.

Sir Peter Hendy, chair of Network Rail, said: “Britain’s railways create economic growth, jobs and housing by enabling connectivity. In addition, use of Network Rail’s land can and should enable more regeneration and housing directly.

“We recognise this means strong and ambitious new partnerships, so Network Rail is changing to make it easier than ever for developers to work with us to deliver exciting projects in and around railway stations and railway land. Developments of this type drive regeneration, and create housing and employment opportunities whilst creating great places for people to live, work and travel.

 “We are already partnering with innovative developers, who can match our ambition to deliver quality schemes across Britain, and we want to partner with more. This collaboration is a big step forward in our new approach.”