New Date Given for Start of Police Station Redevelopment |
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Project to build 50 retirement home scheduled to take over two years
August 8, 2026 Construction work at the former Chiswick Police Station is finally set to begin, with contractor Kori Construction confirming that site preparation will start on 1 September. The company is developing the site into a 50‑apartment scheme for older residents on behalf of retirement living operator Birchgrove. The project marks the end of a long period of uncertainty for the prominent High Road site, eight years after the station’s front counter closed and more than a year after initial construction was expected to start. Birchgrove’s planning application earlier this year for non‑illuminated hoardings around the corner plot at Linden Gardens signalled that work was finally imminent, following delays linked to Section 106 negotiations and an overrun at the company’s Hampton Court development. The first weeks on site will involve establishing the compound, installing hoarding and temporary cabins, and carrying out clearance works. At this stage it is not clear whether any of the parking spaces in front of the building will be occupied. Demolition of the former police station is scheduled for October, paving the way for full construction to begin. The development is expected to complete in late 2028. No name has been given to the development although earlier communications from Birchgrove dubbed the building ‘Copper House’ in an apparent nod to its former use. When asked, the company said that the name of had not been decided as yet. Kori Construction emphasises its commitment to minimising disruption and working closely with neighbours throughout the two‑year build. The project will be registered with the Considerate Constructors Scheme, with pledges to respect the community, care for the environment and support a healthy, inclusive workforce. The company also highlights its wider social impact ambitions, targeting £23.8 million in social value through local employment, support for regional businesses, environmental safeguards and community partnerships. As part of this, Kori has launched a Community Fund, offering grants of up to £2,500 for projects in the area that tackle disadvantage, improve wellbeing, reduce crime, enhance biodiversity or address climate change. Residents are invited to learn more at a Meet the Contractor Forum next month, where Kori’s team will outline how the works will be delivered and answer questions about construction logistics. The forum will not revisit the planning process or the consented scheme, but will focus on communication, mitigation measures and community engagement during the build. The event takes place on Wednesday 2 September 2026 at 18:30, at Hogarth Hall, Chiswick Town Hall. Kori encourages attendees to RSVP to Elaine Kendall at ekendall@koriconstruction.com to assist with arrangements.
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