Developer given final planning approval for expansion of its shopping mall in west London

Westfield - west London

Westfield has been given the green light to start work on its £1bn expansion of its shopping mall in west London after the scheme was given the final planning approval this week.

Hammersmith & Fulham council gave final planning approval to the scheme, which comprises a 230,000 sq ft John Lewis store as well as more than 1,300 new homes.

The development will also include restaurants and cafes, office space, a children’s play space and a new leisure complex and is expected to create around 6,700 permanent new jobs.

Under the permission, Westfield’s residential arm, Westfield Shoppingtowns Ltd, will build 1,347 homes.

Of these 162 will be affordable homes, 40% of which will be social rented, with the possibility this number will increase subject to viability assessments.

The development, which will enable the first John Lewis store in west London, is part of the White City opportunity area, which the Mayor of London has identified as having the capacity for 5,000 homes.

Councillor Stephen Cowan, leader of Hammersmith & Fulham council, said: “The plans will provide a dynamic and attractive gateway to Shepherds Bush town centre and the wider White City Opportunity Area, creating new jobs, housing – including much needed affordable housing.”