After a long period of discussion with tenants about the planned refurbishments, Network Rail is now preparing to submit a planning application for the works. A letter was sent to local residents and traders inviting them to attend a public consultation, which took place in early November.
As a result of conversations with the business community, Network Rail is offering relocation support, temporary accommodation and compensation to its tenants who will be disrupted by the works, which are estimated to take one year to complete. Importantly, we are told that tenants will have the option to return to the arches after the works, at stepped rents.
The letter from Network Rail states “We want to retain the unique character of Brixton. So, in addition to those tenants wishing to return, we will be looking to attract a good mix of businesses which will maintain the area as a popular visitor destination and serve the local community’s needs. Despite some suggestions, we will not be renting out any of the refurbished arches to national supermarkets and national food and drinks chains. We manage 4,000 businesses in our London estate; fewer than 20 are let to national chains.”
The arches proposed for refurbishment are those on Brixton Station Road and Atlantic Road, between the junctions of Brixton Road and Popes Road.
To contact the Network Rail team, please email property@networkrail.co.uk or call and leave a message on 0800 231 6036.