Clarion Housing Group has signed a £21 million contract with Legendre UK for main works construction of the Lemon Tree House redevelopment on Bow Road in Tower Hamlets.

This project marks another milestone in Clarion’s commitment to delivering much-needed affordable housing in the borough.

Lemon Tree House, a 7-storey building with 49 homes, is being redeveloped due to building and fire safety issues. In its place, Legendre UK will construct a new, up-to-9-storey building, increasing the number of homes to 58, all for social rent, ensuring safe, high-quality accommodation for local residents.

The new development will include a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, designed to meet a range of housing needs. Communal air source heat pumps will be incorporated to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability.

The main works are scheduled to begin in October 2025, following the completion of demolition and Gateway 2 approval by the Building Safety Regulator, with practical completion anticipated for Winter 2027.

Richard Cook, Chief Development Officer at Clarion Housing Group, said, “Appointing Legendre UK is an important step forward in achieving our goals for transforming Lemon Tree House into a safe, modern development that will provide much-needed social housing in Tower Hamlets. We look forward to seeing work commence on-site and delivering the affordable homes that will continue to serve the community for generations.”

Thomas Vandecasteele, Managing Director, Legendre UK: “We are delighted to collaborate with Clarion for the first time on this exciting redevelopment project. Our proven expertise in delivering high-quality homes in complex, high-density environments make us the ideal partner for Clarion’s transformative Lemon Tree House development. We look forward to bringing our innovative solutions to life, ensuring a positive impact for both Clarion and the local community.”

The redevelopment of Lemon Tree House is part of Clarion’s wider efforts to provide high-quality affordable housing while prioritising sustainability and energy efficiency.