Affordable Passivhaus homes “top out” at Deptford Landings

A development of fully affordable, low-energy homes came a step closer to completion last week following the “topping out” of 189 homes at Deptford Landings in southeast London.

Published: 06/03/2025

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The homes which are being built are expected to be ready for new residents by autumn 2026. They will not only help to tackle the urgent demand for affordable homes in London but will also be Peabody’s first large scale venture into providing homes that achieve Passivhaus certification.  
 
The project is thought to be one of the largest single-phase Passivhaus projects in the UK to date, and residents will benefit from reduced energy costs and a significant improvement in comfort and air quality. 
 
The 100 percent affordable scheme, managed by Peabody, will include social rent and shared ownership homes – helping local people from the council’s housing waiting list and those seeking an affordable step into home ownership. It will be made up of three eight-storey buildings, two of which will have large roof terraces, and a central landscaped courtyard.  
 
The development will include a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom homes, accommodating families as well as smaller households. Each home will benefit from a private balcony. 
 
The homes will be part of a phased masterplan being delivered by Lendlease. The development will blend new and existing elements, adding homes, shops, a renovated pub, and green spaces connected to The Waterline Way walking and cycling route.  

Peabody and its development partner Higgins Partnerships held a “topping out” ceremony on Wednesday 26 February to mark the milestone. Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres, Cllr James-J Walsh, Cllr Will Cooper, ward councillors and representatives from Lendlease, AHMM Architects, Max Fordham Engineers, and employers' agent, cost management and principal designer, Rider Levett Bucknall, joined them.

Simon Barry, Regional Managing Director, Development at Peabody said: “It’s great to see these much-needed homes another step closer to completion. As well as being fully affordable, the enhanced sustainability measures will reduce energy use, helping to significantly reduce energy bills for residents, while being better for the environment. Residents will also benefit from a range of new facilities at Deptford Landings, making it a great place to live, work and socialise. We look forward to welcoming new residents next year.” 
 
Tom Copley, Deputy Mayor of London for Housing and Residential Development, said: “I am delighted to see this development move closer to completion, supporting the urgent demand for new affordable homes for Londoners.   
 
“These low-energy homes, funded by Mayor of London, will be Peabody’s first venture into achieving the Passivhaus certification, which will see residents benefitting from lower energy bills and improved air quality together with new local facilities. It’s part of our work to build a greener, fairer London for everyone.”

Declan Higgins, Chief Executive Officer for Higgins Group, commented: “We are proud to play our part in delivering vital affordable homes in the borough of Lewisham and are pleased that so many of our partners could join us to mark this important milestone. At Higgins, our commitment goes beyond building homes - it is about creating a thriving community and ensuring long-lasting benefits beyond the construction site. Since starting work, we have contributed over 130 hours of community engagement and more than 40 hours working with local schools.”