Barnsbury Estate approved plans pave the way for 1,116 new homes

Approved by the Planning Committee on Tuesday (9 December), the plans – developed through a partnership between Mount Anvil and Newlon Housing Trust – will deliver 1,116 new homes.  

These include 291 replacement and 135 additional social rent properties, plus a larger community centre, improved green spaces, and new commercial units on Caledonian Road. 

The decision follows extensive design review and consultation to ensure the scheme meets Building Safety Act requirements, remains financially viable, and delivers high-quality homes and public spaces. The approved plans will tackle overcrowding, provide 38% of homes at social rent, and create a greener, more inclusive neighbourhood for residents. 

Cllr Santiago Bell-Bradford, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Inclusive Economy, Culture & Jobs said: “Everyone in Islington deserves a decent, secure and affordable home – and this decision shows how good planning can deliver that.  

“This scheme will provide more than 1,000 new, modern, safe homes that meet Building Safety Act standards.  

“Alongside this, we’re creating two new public parks, a larger community centre, and better connections for walking and cycling – a great example of planning delivering real benefits for local people.” 

Mount Anvil Marcus Bate, Partnerships, Planning, Communities & Sustainability Director said: “Securing this planning approval is a just reward for residents of the Barnsbury Estate, after many years of committed collaboration between Mount Anvil, Newlon and Islington Council.  
 
"Together, we’ve shaped a plan that delivers 1,116 high-quality homes, a much-needed new civic building, two new public parks, and generous green open spaces for all residents to enjoy.  
 
"Building trust with residents has been central to our mission, and the overwhelmingly positive resident vote earlier this year shows how strongly the estate residents support our proposals. 
 
"We’re proud to be taking this next step with our partners and Barnsbury residents.” 

Ruth Davison Chief Executive, Newlon Housing Trust, added: “This has been a longtime coming for our residents on the Barnsbury Estate, and we thank them for keeping the faith.  

"Now the work starts to build high quality homes, parks and a community centre fitting to the community spirit of the place.  

"Unusually, most of the social rented homes will be delivered first at Barnsbury, so those whose home this already is will have the benefit of the investment first. It’s just one of our commitments as a community social landlord, as well as ensuring families are no longer overcrowded on the estate, and that we deliver an additional 135 homes for families on Islington’s waiting list.”