Approval granted for New Era Estate housing redevelopment

The transformation of the New Era Estate in Hackney will bring 208 new homes to the area, with half designated as affordable in a scheme led by Dolphin Living and delivered in partnership with The Hill Group.

Supported by funding from the Mayor's Affordable Housing Programme, construction is expected to begin in August, with final completion scheduled for the end of 2029.

Olivia Harris, chief executive of Dolphin Living, said: "We are very pleased that Hackney Council has granted planning consent for the redevelopment of the New Era Estate.

"This scheme reflects the continued need to deliver high-quality, affordable homes for London’s key workers at a time of persistent housing undersupply. We remain fully committed to working closely with residents throughout the development process.

"With construction now on the horizon, we look forward to delivering a new and improved New Era and welcoming residents back once complete."

Designed by Allies & Morrison, the scheme will replace the existing 1930s private rented accommodation with a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom homes across buildings between three and 13 storeys. The plans also include 384 sq m of retail space and a communal courtyard garden.

Of the 208 new homes, 99 will be offered for intermediate rent, contributing to the scheme’s 50 per cent affordable housing target by habitable room.

The majority of these homes will be let at 20 per cent below London Living Rent in perpetuity. Original estate residents will be offered one of the new affordable units.

Dolphin Living, which acquired the estate in 2014, previously introduced means-tested rents and decided on redevelopment after resident consultation.

Residents have temporarily relocated to 333 Kingsland Road and will be able to return once the estate is complete.

Cain Peters, regional managing director of special projects at The Hill Group, said: "We are delighted to have secured planning permission alongside Dolphin Living for the redevelopment of New Era.

"This is an exciting regeneration project that will deliver much-needed high-quality, sustainable, affordable homes in the heart of Hackney, while supporting an established community. New Era is a strong example of what partnership working can achieve.

"We look forward to starting construction and bringing this ambitious vision to life, creating a sustainable and welcoming place for residents to enjoy for many years to come."

The first residents are expected to move in towards the end of 2028.