The council intends to dispose of its car park site adjacent to the Civic Centre, known locally as the Lobster Pot, to developer Urban Vision. The site is set to be transformed into a state-of-the-art nursing care facility with 162 beds.
The redevelopment would provide a cost-effective, sustainable approach to increasing adult social care places in Hillingdon, reducing reliance on expensive private-sector providers while meeting growing demand for local dementia care.
The council’s Cabinet approved the proposals at a meeting on 23 October. The project remains subject to planning permission, with a full planning application expected soon. Residents will have the opportunity to provide feedback as part of a public consultation process.
The facility will be designed in collaboration with the council to meet Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards, ensuring high-quality, future-proof care that meets residents’ needs.
Arrangements for existing users of the car park, including council staff, are being considered, with parking options set to continue until April next year.
Cllr Jane Palmer, Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, said:
“The size and central location of the site presents an ideal opportunity to increase high-quality and accessible care locally, while addressing the growing demand for dementia nursing care. By investing in our own facilities, we reduce reliance on external providers, cut costs, and create a sustainable care system for the future. Residents will be able to continue living locally in a building designed to support high levels of care and encourage independent living, with opportunities for local recruitment in nursing and care roles.”
Cllr Jonathan Bianco, Deputy Leader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Corporate Services and Property, added:
“These proposals are part of our ongoing commitment to deliver value-for-money services while finding innovative ways to meet residents’ needs. By making best use of our assets, we can save on running costs and generate income for the council as part of our continuing transformation and savings programme.”
