Cllr Tom Bruce, Deputy Leader of Hounslow Council and Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Assets and Development provides an update on the retail units.
Published: Thursday, 9th January 2025
The redevelopment of Albany Parade and the new retail units at Tintern House represents an opportunity to revitalise the town centre and support local businesses.
As part of the planning permission for this project, Hounslow Council is required to allocate 20% of the retail floorspace to local businesses at a 20% discount on market rent for the first five years of their lease.
This commitment is designed to boost the town centre economy and ensure it remains a vibrant and thriving hub for the community.
The Council is on course to deliver significantly over this requirement by offering the same discounted terms to 11 local businesses that have expressed an interest and have received offers to lease the new units.
The Council is working closely with these businesses to help them through the process and to ensure they are well-placed to succeed in their new locations.
Transitioning from Albany Parade has required work to support businesses. The Council has supported businesses including rent-free arrangements, an extended lease until January 2025, and providing compensation to help businesses relocate smoothly.
While there is no automatic right for Albany Parade tenants to move into the new units at Tintern House, all local businesses have been given a fair opportunity to apply, and the Council is committed to supporting them in finding the right solutions for their needs.
The process of fitting out the new units is well underway, with businesses now working on detailed plans to meet the required standards.
This is a necessary step to ensure the spaces are ready for long-term use and that they enhance the area for all. The Council also needs to balance the mix of businesses in the block to create a vibrant and successful retail environment, while safeguarding the integrity of these new facilities.
The redevelopment of Albany Parade and Charlton House is tied to time-sensitive grant funding from the GLA, and demolition work will soon begin to move this vital project forward. The Council appreciates that this causes disruption, but recognises that the work is a necessary step towards delivering a modern, thriving, and inclusive town centre.
The Council is committed to keeping residents and businesses updated as the project progresses and remain focused on ensuring the area’s future is bright for everyone in Brentford.
