The vision for Old Oak
Imperial has identified the area within West Tech London, a new major strategy to secure regional economic growth. North Acton is key to attracting new innovation jobs and providing quality homes.
We want to provide 268 student beds within the Woodward Buildings Block A an extension to the existing Woodward Buildings (B, C & D) and ease the pressure on the local rental market for local people which would otherwise be taken up by students. These reflect the plans to invest in and expand opportunities for local communities.
We also want to provide significant community space allocation that would support local community groups. If you know any groups that could benefit from a dedicated space for organising and helping the local community, if you know of or are a member of a local community organisation which could use our amazing new space then please do contact us and we will make sure you are informed of our progress! See our privacy notice whilst you do so.
Design
Designed to work for both the local community and students, the proposal for Woodward Buildings Block A includes high quality student amenity spaces and improved public realm which will improve this part of North Acton.
We have conducted extensive community consultation to date with local community representatives, a panel of design specialists and the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation. As a result, the scheme has evolved over time:
- The height has been reduced from 25 to 14 storeys.
- Changes have been made to the façade, improving solar shading.
- Cyclist routes connect coherently to the development.
- Energy performance is improved with solar panels and additional sustainability features.
- Landscape features have been added to the frontage and roof top to provide a biodiversity net gain.
Community and Social Benefits
Over a prolonged period, Imperial has been helping to improve West London and building positive relations with local community groups.
A key component of the proposals in North Acton will be the provision of community spaces available for student organisations and local groups to use. These spaces will be provided at low cost to charities and public benefit organisations to help the local community.
London Borough of Ealing is home to 1,200 businesses and the scheme will provide retail units attracting extra footfall, benefitting local traders and growing the North Acton economy.
As well as Woodward Halls, Imperial is investing extensively in West London. In October 2024, Imperial purchased Victoria Industrial Estate in Old Oak close to the White City Innovation District and the future Old Oak Common Station hub.
The design of the site integrates walking and cycling routes, promoting sustainable and active lifestyles with active cycle stores and strong links to local transport connections.
Planning update
We are pleased to announce that our proposals for Woodward Buildings Block A received a resolution to grant full planning permission in October 2025. Central to the success of the project are significant improvements to the public realm and a positive contribution to the place making at this gateway along Victoria Road into the North Acton Area. Linking with the existing buildings adjacent to the site, this development supports Imperial’s continued investment in North Acton and contributes to our wider vision for the area.