Approved outline planning application

Outline Application – (20/3564/OUT and APP/N5090/W/22/3307073)

We recognise that the outline planning application was the subject of much debate over many years in what was a challenging planning process. To assist with future conversations on this site, for ease of access, we have included the main planning documents from the outline application here. We have also included the final Decision Notice and the s.106 legal agreement which sets out key building heights, the number of new homes, and other items the development is legally obliged to deliver. The Public Inquiry (APP/N5090/V/22/3307073) Core Documents can be found here.

If you have any difficulties navigating these documents, please contact our team for support and to share any questions.

Cricklewood B&Q – Planning Consent Factsheet 

The Site’s Planning History 

An outline planning application was consulted on and then brought forward by Montreaux Cricklewood Developments Limited and was approved by the London Borough of Barnet’s Strategic Planning Committee in September 2021. 

In 2023, The principle of new homes, shops and commercial space here was established when, after a long planning journey, an outline planning application was approved at appeal by the Planning Inspectorate and the former Secretary of State, Michael Gove. 

During the outline planning process, Montreaux sold the site, which is now owned by Urban Cricklewood Developments Ltd who are progressing to the next stage of planning. A delivery partner is not yet on board to bring forward construction of the proposals.

Approved Outline Consent 

The approved Outline Planning Application includes: 

  • The demolition of the existing buildings and the comprehensive phased redevelopment of the site for a mix of uses  
  • Up to 1,049 residential units (Use Class C3),  
  • Up to 1,200 sqm of flexible commercial floorspace (Use Classes A3/B1/D1 and D2)  
  • Buildings ranging from 3 to 18 storeys  
  • Car and cycle parking landscaping and associated works  

Reserved Matters 

Although the outline planning application was ultimately approved by the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, the proposals are subject to obtaining detailed consent, by way of a Reserved Matters Application (RMA).  

This is because the planning application first approved in 2021 was an outline consent, meaning that the principle of the site’s residential-led regeneration was agreed. As a result, the planning approval agreed the maximum number of new homes that could be built, how many of the homes would be ‘affordable’, the location and orientation of the four proposed buildings on the site, and their maximum building heights in metres. These are shown in the approved parameter plans. Any variation from these will need to be documented and justified as part of the next stage. 

However, important matters such as the architectural approach, the landscaping strategy, site access and permeability, and strategy behind the successful delivery of the proposed commercial spaces will be developed as part of the RMA.  

The RMA is currently being progressed, with a target submission for spring 2025.

Key Cricklewood Themes 

So, whilst the principle of new homes, the affordable provision, the number and location of buildings, plus their height and density have all been agreed, here’s what you can influence and what we want your thoughts and opinions on: 

Architectural Approach Landscaping and Public Realm 
Using the indicative design from the outline planning application, the project architects – AHMM – are working hard to ensure the architectural approach, character and materiality are suitable for this scheme, and for Cricklewood.  What materials would you like to see used, and what would you like the finished scheme to look like? High quality and intuitive landscaping can play a pivotal role in knitting together new developments, and we want your views on how the public spaces and green routes interconnect. Cricklewood Green is a key component of the proposals and will be developed and extended to become the new heart of the town centre.  What is your view on how we should approach playspaces for younger and older children, and how should we curate the proposed pedestrian and cycle routes? How can Cricklewood Green be improved to become a better local amenity?  
Heritage and Public Art Commercial Space
This site and Cricklewood more widely has a rich history and a bright future. We want to ensure that our plans respect and respond to local historic buildings and the areas wider heritage.  We also believe there are locations on the boundary of and within the scheme to include innovative public art. What would you like to see about the area’s history reflected in this site’s future? Our plans seek to bring excitement and vibrancy to the 1,200 sqm of new commercial space agreed as part of the ‘outline’ planning application.  What do you want to see included, and what do you not want to see?  How would you like to see these locations managed and maintained? 
 Construction Management 
 We are committed to producing a Construction Management, Environmental, and Logistics Plan, as required by condition. This plan will need to be approved by Barnet and will cover the following aspects: Details of construction vehicle routes and hours of access Wheel washing to prevent the passage of mud and dirt from vehicles Methods and measures to control the emission of dust, noise, and vibration Suitable means to suppress dust  Additionally, a community liaison contact will be appointed for the duration of the works. 

Contact information 

If you have any further questions then please feel free to get in contact with the consultation engagement team by: 

Emailing: BandQCricklewood@cavendishconsulting.com 

Calling: 020 3398 1590