Former Co-op Building First to Go in Alton Estate Demolition

Planning committee gives the green light for estate redevelopment to begin

The building has been derelict for several years. Picture: Wandsworth Council

March 17, 2026

A long-empty building at the entrance to Roehampton’s Alton estate is set to be demolished after Wandsworth Council’s planning committee approved proposals for new community facilities and affordable housing.

The decision, made on 12 March, gives the green light for the redevelopment of Block A, a prominent site on Danebury Avenue and Holybourne Avenue that once housed a Co-op supermarket, offices, residential units and a youth club. The building has stood derelict for several years and has been described by residents as an eyesore at one of the estate’s key gateways.

Under the approved plans, the site will be transformed into a purpose-built community hub alongside 55 new affordable council housing units. The four-storey hub will include a new library, GP practice, youth facilities, council service space, bookable rooms and a community hall. The homes will be delivered in a separate nine-storey building designed to modern accessibility and space standards, with improved public realm and landscaping around it.

The redevelopment forms a central part of the council’s Alton Renewal Plan, a long-term programme to upgrade community facilities, improve public spaces and deliver new housing across the estate. Residents voted in favour of the renewal proposals in a ballot last year.

Labour councillor Sara Apps described the plans as a “pivotal moment” in the regeneration of the estate.

Councillor Apps said during the planning meeting, “What really struck me was reading the comments from children’s services and from adult services and other agencies, who could see the possibilities that this was going to open up to all the communities and I think that is a very, very strong point.”

She added: “All in all, I think this is a first step in a much broader reform, which I think could be a very positive thing for this area.”

CGI of how Block A on the Alton Estate might look. Picture: HTA Design/Wandsworth Council

Aydin Dikerdem, Wandsworth’s Cabinet Member for Housing, said the approval marked “a big moment” for the area adding, “This block has been an empty eyesore for too long. Now we can get on with transforming this part of the estate by providing the whole Alton community with a fantastic new library, youth facilities and GP practice, alongside affordable council homes and green spaces.”

Aydin Dikerdem, Wandsworth’s Cabinet Member for Housing

The council says the Block A redevelopment is one of several improvements being rolled out this year in response to residents’ calls for safer, brighter and more welcoming public spaces. New wayfinding signage, creative lighting and artwork are being installed this spring, while redesigned play areas at the Alton Activity Centre and Downshire Field are due to open in time for the summer holidays. Local children have been involved in shaping the new play spaces, which will include zoned areas for different age groups and natural play features.

Elsewhere, Focus Hall has reopened following extensive refurbishment, providing an upgraded community venue for local groups and events. Residents were invited to preview the building ahead of an official opening event scheduled for 26 March.

The Alton Renewal Plan includes estate-wide upgrades such as road and pavement repairs, improved shop fronts and better waste and recycling facilities. Over the longer term, the council intends to deliver up to 650 new housing units, additional GP surgeries, a Family Hub, enhanced green spaces and improved walking routes.

Written with contributions from Charlotte Lilywhite - Local Democracy Reporter