Karma House, Wembley
ZEDHomes



Permission for iconic 17-storey building secured on a highly constrained site following effective engagement with all relevant interests.

Planning permission for a 17-storey building accommodating 120 hotel rooms and 108 apartments on only a 0.16 ha site was achieved despite formidable issues relating to urban design, potential prejudice to the development of important adjacent sites and overshadowing of adjoining residential buildings.

Karma House was a 1960’s three storey office building with a brick-built warehouse behind, located just to the east of the famous Olympic Way approach to Wembley Stadium, and just to the South of Wembley Park Underground Station. The buildings formed part of the legacy of the ‘old’ Wembley, a long way behind the new ‘vision’ for the area.

An increase in the height of buildings on the site to 17 storeys required us to prepare visual and views assessment reports to ensure that the Wembley ‘arch’ would not be obscured, the client’s ellipse-shaped tower would ‘fit’ into the surrounding townscape and the redevelopment of nearby sites would not be prejudiced.

Close proximity to an existing block of flats led us to hold a public exhibition for occupiers. This succeeded in addressing many concerns.

Due to the 42m height of the building, the Greater London Authority (GLA) were notified and further meetings with officers held. Following comprehensive discussions and negotiations with officers at the GLA and Brent Council they became supportive of the scheme, with specific recognition given to its catalytic role in the regeneration of the Wembley Park area and because of the sustainability benefits of the scheme.

Following a presentation to members, the Planning Committee resolved to grant permission. The London Mayor then confirmed that the regenerative and other benefits put forward were such that there was no need to intervene.