More than 1,000 new homes are set to be built in Morden town centre as part of a London Mayor initiative to kick-start regeneration in the area.
Morden was one of 20 regions awarded Housing Zone status by Boris on Thursday.
This decision means that Merton Council will be able to tap into a reserve fund of £42million that has been promised by the Greater London Authority.
Merton Councillor Andrew Judge said: “We want to develop a plan for the town centre which will see it become a vibrant place where a lively business and social scene will grow over the next 15 years.”
The 1,070 new homes will be built at the heart of Morden town centre within the next eight years.
Current plans include 40% affordable housing which would mean around 400 new homes that comply with the affordable housing standards.
Development on the site is set to begin in 2018-19 on plans that will be drawn up in the next two years.
The plans will also include new retail and business opportunities to help create new public spaces for the town.
Councillor Judge added: “We want Morden to offer opportunities for new homes and local jobs and we are committed to working with the local residents and businesses to shape Morden into the aspirational place it can and will be.”
Merton Council is seeking feedback from residents to help guide the first stage of plans – residents can get involved by clicking here http://www.merton.gov.uk/community-living/areas-wards/morden/moremorden.htm
Picture courtesy of Stephen Lock, with thanks
