Fourth Mile, designed by Benoy, has been approved by London’s Hounslow Borough Council paving the way for the cutting-edge mixed-use scheme to be delivered. The scheme is a joint venture between Reef Group and Blackrock Real Assets.
Fourth Mile will have the world’s first integrated technology showcase, a dedicated events and exhibition space for leading automotive brands to demonstrate future innovation and advances in technology, including electric and autonomous vehicles. The space will enable car manufacturers and big tech firms to highlight new and sustainable technologies focused on the future of mobility and transport.
Image © Benoy
Reflecting a shift in consumer habits the showcase will be an experience focused forum for people to immerse themselves in the new technologies and experience smart vehicles first-hand. Fourth Mile, will blend technology, living and design to create a pioneering new destination in Brentford, London. The approved plans include 234 apartments, a 197-room hotel, a new city square and 95,000 sq. ft. of leisure, retail and dining space.
The 234 new homes will be a mix of studios, one‑, two- and three-bedroom apartments, including a 40% affordable housing contribution of which 65% will be family sized units, ensuring that the housing mix aligns with need in the local area. The affordable apartments will be set at London Living Rents, exceeding requirements set out in the London Plan. All future residents of Fourth Mile will have a mix of private and communal outdoor space. Sustainability is at the forefront of the design and construction of Fourth Mile.
Image © Benoy 
Image © Benoy
Low carbon technologies have been incorporated into the plans, including onsite micro power generation, ground and air source pumps, solar panels, rainwater capturing, the provision of electric vehicle charging and green walls and roofs. The residential elements of Fourth Mile will achieve carbon neutrality and the technology showcase is targeting BREEAM outstanding. Fourth Mile is located adjacent to the Great West Road (M4) a key artery in and out of London.
As part of the planning approval a £3.2 million contribution will be made towards improvements at nearby Gunnersbury Station and Kew Bridge Station, as well as enhancements to local bus services and other sustainable travel measures. The development has the potential to create in excess of 350 jobs during the construction phase, including apprenticeship opportunities, and once operational a further 790 full time jobs are expected to be created. Source and images Courtesy of Benoy.