Westminster City Council has marked a key milestone at Balmoral House in South Pimlico, where construction has reached its highest point on a scheme delivering 10 new social‑rent homes.

Cllr Ellie Ormsby, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, joined construction partner Wates Residential to place the final shovel of cement on the roof of the new building within the Churchill Gardens estate.

Named after the former Balmoral Castle public house, Balmoral House is the second stage of the Darwin and Balmoral affordable housing project. On completion it will offer eight generous four‑bedroom homes, plus a three‑bed, a one‑bed and landscaped gardens for use by residents across the wider estate. Overcrowded families living on Churchill Gardens will be prioritised and are expected to move in later this year.

Cllr Ellie Ormsby, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Renters, said: "It was a privilege to take part in a tradition like the topping‑out ceremony and to see the progress being made at Balmoral House.

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"There is significant demand across the city for affordable, family‑sized homes. Original plans for the site were not affordable for local families, so we are proud that we revised the scheme as part of our Truly Affordable Housing Strategy to make sure these homes are being delivered at 100 per cent social rent. This ensures families can access high‑quality, energy‑efficient homes and put down long‑term roots in their community."

An 18‑year‑old Westminster resident, Ilyas, has taken up an apprenticeship with Wates Residential through the project.

Ilyas said: "Working on the project has been so rewarding, it's an amazing building. It's really opened my eyes to the construction industry and how important social value is to creating a legacy for the local community."

Alongside placements, training and employment support, Wates Residential has contributed over £90,000 to voluntary sector organisations and social enterprises working with Westminster communities. This includes donations and staff time to assist a range of people and groups, from micro businesses and start‑ups to rough sleepers and local schools.

Paul Nicholls, Managing Director for London, Wates Residential said: "Topping out Balmoral House reflects the strong relationship we have built with Darwin House residents and Westminster City Council.

"Our team are embedded in the community, know people by name and run community programmes that provide ongoing support beyond the delivery of homes.

"By listening to what matters locally, we have supported Westminster residents into apprenticeships and long term roles, helping to leave a positive legacy that lasts long after construction."

The project's first phase delivered 34 modern flats at Darwin House for Community Supportive Housing, alongside guest accommodation for visitors and a communal room for social activities.

The development contributes to the council’s housebuilding programme to deliver 2,000 new homes by 2030, including 1,100 affordable properties for residents on the social housing waiting list.