Alton Estate Residents Back Renewal Plan in Landmark Ballot

But questions remain about future of redevelopment project

A new dawn for the Alton Estate? Picture: Wandsworth Council

October 17, 2025

In a decisive vote hailed as a turning point for Roehampton’s Alton Estate, residents have overwhelmingly backed Wandsworth Council’s regeneration plans in what is being described as the largest estate ballot of its kind in London. The result clears the way for a major redevelopment programme promising new homes, improved community facilities, and long-awaited investment in one of the borough’s most deprived areas.

The ballot, run independently by Civica Election Services under Greater London Authority (GLA) rules, closed on 16 October. Of the 3,395 eligible residents, 1,410 cast a vote—a turnout of 41.5%. Of those, 82.4% voted in favour, with just 17.6% opposed and three ballots deemed invalid.

The result gives Wandsworth Council a clear mandate to proceed with its Alton Renewal Plan, which includes:

• Up to 650 new flats, with over 50% designated as affordable
• A new community centre with a library, youth hub, and flexible spaces
• A modernised shopping parade with a supermarket
• New GP surgeries, a Family Hub, and nursery facilities
• Upgraded green spaces, playgrounds, and improved estate access

The council says it will now move to finalise detailed plans and begin phased development. Existing council rents will remain boroughwide, meaning residents will not face rent increases as a direct result of the regeneration. Construction will be staged to minimise disruption, and priority will be given to family-sized homes for residents currently experiencing overcrowding.

Cabinet Member for Housing Cllr Aydin Dikerdem called the result “a momentous day for the Alton,” adding, “We’re ready to start building affordable homes and better community facilities, so we’ll update residents soon on the next steps and how you can get involved.”

Local MP Fleur Anderson, who campaigned for a ‘Yes’ vote, said the result was “fantastic news” and a long-overdue step forward: “The ‘YES’ vote is a clear message that people want change — new homes, better health facilities, modern community spaces and a revitalised shopping parade.”

Fleur Anderson on the estate campaigning for a 'yes' vote

Residents also expressed cautious optimism. Angus, from Alton East, said the proposals “much better reflect the needs of the residents,” while Mick, a Tangley Grove resident of over 50 years, said: “Something needs to change.”

While the ballot result is clear, the regeneration of the Alton Estate has a long and contested history. Previous plans under different administrations were shelved or delayed, and some residents have voiced concerns about the potential loss of social housing, disruption during construction, and the long-term affordability of new homes.

The current Labour-led council has sought to address these concerns by securing GLA grant funding, committing to high levels of affordable housing, and promising that existing tenants will not be displaced without suitable alternatives.

The regeneration follows a year of smaller-scale improvements under the Alton Renewal Plan, including the opening of the Roehampton Family Hub, resurfacing of roads and pavements, expanded community transport, and resident-led mural projects.

The plans were promoted across the area. Picture: Wandsworth Council

Wandsworth Council is expected to begin community engagement on the next phase of planning in the coming weeks.