The John Lewis Partnership has received approval from Bromley Council to build 353 rental homes above its Waitrose store in Bromley, marking its first significant move towards becoming a landlord. The decision, which passed with a vote of 10 to 5, reflects local support, evidenced by 147 letters endorsing the project. The development will include a modernized Waitrose store and public amenities, with 10% of the flats designated as affordable housing. This initiative is part of JLP's wider strategy to diversify beyond retail, aiming to develop 10,000 rental homes over the next decade. Critics have raised concerns about the height of the buildings and the proportion of affordable housing, but council members emphasized the local need for housing. The project is anticipated to boost the local economy by an estimated £70 million over the first ten years after completion.