Ealing Council is working to secure affordable homes for rent as part of the ambitious redevelopment of the Gurnell Leisure Centre site.

Plans to provide funding for affordable housing were discussed at a recent consultation meeting with residents and if approved, would further enhance the £37.7 million project which already promises new homes and brand new leisure facilities at Gurnell.

The council has confirmed that the new development of Gurnell Leisure Centre will, in addition to providing a new swimming pool and leisure centre, deliver a substantial number of homes which meet the official definition of affordable. For example rents equivalent to those charged by local authorities and housing associations. Any future decision is subject to cabinet approval in the future.

These homes will be in addition to those in the current plan, half of which will be for rent at prices affordable to ordinary working people.

Gurnell Leisure Centre opened in 1981 and now must be replaced to meet the needs of its users. The private housing element of the project is vital to funding the transformation. Without enabling new housing on the site, its replacement could not happen and the existing facility would face risk of closure. The new state-of-the-art leisure facility is set to include a flagship 50 metre pool, gym, improved changing facilities and outdoor sports provision.

The current leisure centre is expected to close for a period of redevelopment in September 2018.

Cllr Bassam Mahfouz, cabinet member for transport, environment and leisure said: “We make it a priority to listen to the views and opinions of our residents and have consulted extensively on our ambitious plans for Gurnell. We are therefore looking at ways to ensure that the affordable housing needs of local people are met as part of this redevelopment.

“We are investing in a fantastic modern leisure centre in Ealing. This project will put Gurnell on the national map as a state-of-the-art facility as well as providing local people with an exciting modern new sports centre.”

Cllr Jasbir Anand, cabinet member for housing said: “Thanks to everyone who had their say on this exciting redevelopment project. As in all London boroughs the availability of affordable homes is a massive issue for people. I am proud that Ealing is one of the few London boroughs meeting its targets for affordable housing. We remain committed to building 7,000 affordable homes by 2026.”