Plans to rebuild Lea Bridge Station as a “catalyst” for the area’s regeneration have been submitted to Waltham Forest Council.
Developers London Square and One Housing hope to build a new station entrance, without altering the tracks in any way, on the corner of Lea Bridge Road and Argall Way.
The old entrance, located about 50 metres away, will remain open throughout building works and be demolished once the new entrance is complete.
The rebuild is part of a wider development around the station that plans to provide 300 new homes.
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A planning statement submitted on behalf of the developers claims the new entrance will “help create a new local centre and instil a sense of place in the area”.
The statement reads: “The existing station is uncovered and exposed, offering no refuge or shelter from the elements as a community asset.
“As the population of the immediate local area is anticipated to grow, the need for a sheltered and more central station entrance will be regarded as a valuable community asset.”
The developers insist the new entrance is “critical to unlocking the redevelopment” of three neighbouring sites.
The statement adds: “Without the station entrance there is a significant risk that market interest (in the new homes) would be severely reduced.”
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The rebuilt station would also have space to store more than 130 bicycles, including some for disabled cyclists.
If plans are approved, work will start on the new entrance in July 2022 and is expected to end in September 2023.
The wider development across three sites aims to deliver 300 homes, half of which would be for market sale.
The remaining “affordable” homes would be 60 per cent London Affordable Rent and 40 per cent shared ownership.
London Affordable Rent homes are intended for those on the waitlist for social housing and rents range from £155 for a one-bed to around £170 for a three-bedroom home.
Plans also include a “cultural hub”, specialist homes for the elderly and learning disabled, 750 square metres of green space and a playground.
Residents can give their views on the application by emailing dmconsultations@walthamforest.gov.uk and quoting reference 202850 before November 13.
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