Residents on one of London’s largest housing estates have overwhelmingly backed £100m regeneration plans.
A ballot held by Wandsworth Council resulted in 82% of more than 1,400 residents supporting proposals for the Alton Estate.
The proposals aim to demolish 177 homes and build up to 650 new ones, with 57% classed as affordable housing.
Fleur Anderson, MP for Putney, said: “This is fantastic news for our community.
“Alton residents have waited far too long for the investment they deserve, and I am delighted that they have now had their say and backed these plans so strongly.
“Over recent weeks I have been out on the Alton, knocking on doors, talking to residents and supporting the campaign for a ‘YES’ vote.
“I’m especially proud of our dedicated youth spaces — they’ll serve young residents well.”
The plans also include new community facilities, a public square, GP surgeries, outdoor spaces and shops.
Regeneration plans for the estate have been ongoing since 2012, but had struggled to gain political consensus.
Labour took control of Wandsworth Council in 2022 and scrapped the previous Conservative-approved scheme over affordability concerns.
The party then drew up a new regeneration plan in consultation with residents.
Aydin Dikerdem, the council’s cabinet member for housing, told SW Londoner: “The previous scheme would have had less council homes than when it started, which was unacceptable.
“Now there will not only be more council homes for Alton residents who are overcrowded or on the waiting list but also a new family hub, relocated nursery, and GP surgery.”
But, despite the record turnout, some residents remain uncertain.
Gulled Muhamud, 38, said: “I didn’t vote at all.
“I don’t trust that these changes will ever happen or really serve the residents.
“This is a strong community — a lot of people have lived here their entire lives so I hope this actually does improve the lives of residents.”
Built in the 1950s, the Alton Estate is considered a landmark of brutalist architecture, with its Le Corbusier-inspired design once celebrated as a post-war achievement.
However, decades of underinvestment have taken their toll.
Barbara Bagalo, 67, has lived in the Alton Estate for over 40 years.
She said: “I voted in favour of the regeneration plans and I hope they actually go ahead.
“We desperately need investment here.
“This used to be a lovely estate, but standards have slipped massively — I feel embarrassed to bring friends here.
“You should feel proud of where you live, not embarrassed.”
Wandsworth Council will carry out the development in phases over approximately 10 years.
Featured image: Alton Estate in Roehampton. Credit: Rose Battey
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