A planning application has been submitted for a six-storey mixed-use building on The Green in Southall, bringing forward new proposals for a site that has remained vacant since 2017.

The land at 52 The Green was previously occupied by a community facility linked to the local Sikh community but has not been redeveloped since its demolition.

The scheme has been put forward by Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Southall and would introduce a new building combining commercial and residential elements within a single development. The proposal forms part of ongoing changes in the area, where several nearby sites have been identified for redevelopment.

If approved, the project would bring the site back into active use while supporting the operational needs of the gurdwara. The application will now be considered as part of the formal planning process, including assessment by the local authority.

Mixed-use development

The proposed scheme is centred around a mixed-use approach, combining different functions within one building to maximise the use of the site. At ground level, the plans include a Class E commercial unit designed to provide an active frontage along The Green and contribute to the local street environment.

The commercial space could accommodate a range of uses, such as retail, office or service-based businesses, depending on demand. The design includes a largely glazed frontage, intended to improve visibility and create a more open and engaging presence at street level.

This element replaces earlier proposals for community space on the site. According to the applicant, community facilities will instead be expanded at the main gurdwara site, allowing this development to focus on complementary uses.

Accommodation for preachers

Above the commercial unit, the building would provide 15 residential rooms intended for preachers associated with the gurdwara’s main sites on Park Avenue and Guru Nanak Road. These rooms are designed to support both permanent staff and visiting individuals who assist with daily religious services.

Services at the gurdwara run from early morning through to late evening, requiring multiple teams working in rotation. Visiting preachers typically stay for short periods, ranging from a few weeks to a couple of months, creating an ongoing need for suitable accommodation.

Each floor would include en-suite rooms alongside shared kitchen, dining and living areas, providing a practical and communal living environment. The accommodation is described as ancillary to the gurdwara’s operations and would not be available for general housing or private rental.

Site background and design

The site has previously been subject to a number of planning approvals, including schemes for office and community use in 2016 and a mixed-use proposal in 2018. Despite these permissions, redevelopment has not taken place, leaving the site vacant for several years.

The new proposal introduces a six-storey building, which is taller than earlier approved schemes. The design has been developed to respond to surrounding buildings, sitting between lower-rise properties nearby and taller developments further along The Green.

Architecturally, the building is arranged with a commercial base, brick upper floors and a recessed top level. The layout also takes into account neighbouring properties, with window placement and design features aimed at reducing overlooking and maintaining privacy.

Sustainability and transport

The development includes a range of environmental features aimed at improving energy efficiency and sustainability. These include air-source heat pumps, solar panels and green roof elements, which contribute to both energy performance and biodiversity.

The scheme is designed as a car-free development, in line with local planning policies and the area’s public transport accessibility. Cycle parking would be provided for residents and visitors, supporting more sustainable travel options.

According to the applicant, the building is unlikely to generate significant additional traffic. Occupants are expected to travel mainly on foot between the gurdwara’s nearby sites, given their close proximity within Southall.

Next steps

A public consultation on the plans took place earlier in the year, with information shared with local residents, councillors and neighbouring organisations. Feedback from this process has informed elements of the final proposal submitted for approval.

The application will now be reviewed by Ealing Council, which will assess the scheme against planning policies and local considerations. A decision will be made following this process.

If approved, the development would bring a long-vacant site back into use, combining commercial activity at street level with accommodation supporting the local Sikh community.

Image credit: Planning document submitted to Ealing Council