HYELM needs pro bono support for some architectural design options for the development planning for their Colindale site

What do they need help with?

HYELM, a registered social landlord and charity, provides affordable accommodation to young people aged 18-35 in London. With 125 units across its Old Street site, the charity has long been committed to supporting young professionals, particularly key workers, in establishing themselves in their careers while fostering a sense of community.

HYELM’s plans for growth have faced challenges, particularly with the redevelopment of a site in Colindale, LB Barnet, which was purchased following the sale of assets in North London. The initial plans included demolishing existing buildings and constructing new units across two main residential areas—76 cluster-style units for young professionals and 26 intermediate units for sale to another housing association. However, the project was paused due to the pandemic, rising construction costs, and the impact of the Building Safety Regulations 2022 on designs and planning processes.

Now, with the demolition of the original buildings completed, HYELM seeks pro bono support to assess the impact of the Building Safety Regulations on the site and explore alternative design options for the development. Specifically, the charity is interested in determining how best to move forward with the site, including evaluating options for a development partner, securing grant funding, or potentially selling the site for future development elsewhere.

HYELM is particularly focused on redesigning the site to meet building safety standards, including the addition of a second stair core, and adapting the project to include self-contained units instead of the original co-living clusters. They are also considering designs for both the private development/buy-to-rent market and affordable housing that meets the Greater London Authority (GLA) requirements and standards.

With these alternative design options, HYELM aims to find the most sustainable and effective way to move the project forward, ensuring the site continues to provide much-needed affordable housing for young professionals in London.

Timeline

As soon as possible

About the organisation

Founded in 1926, HYELM has been providing affordable accommodation to young people in London for nearly a century. As a registered social landlord and charity, it offers 125 units of accommodation at its Old Street site, providing housing to young people aged 18-35, including key workers. The charity focuses on fostering a sense of community and supporting tenants in establishing themselves in their careers through affordable housing with a maximum rent of 80% of the market rate.

HYELM’s commitment to growth and improving housing options for young professionals in London has led to plans for redevelopment, including the purchase of a site in Colindale. The charity continues to seek innovative solutions and partnerships to ensure that this site can provide affordable housing in line with the needs of the community.

https://hyelm.com/