The housing association plans to demolish the existing Dora House block in St John’s Wood and construct 156 homes catering exclusively for senior living.

Part of the site has been sold for a 10-storey private block of 43 luxury flats to help fund the 12-floor retirement homes block.

The £150m development scheme has been designed by architects Ryder Architecture and MAKE.

Planning consultant Montagu Evans advised on the scheme and the disposal of part of the site, which will be used to build 44 private apartments – the revenue from this will fund the construction of the new Dora House

The new building will deliver adaptable apartments that exceed the Mayors of London’s space standards, provide specialist services for residents and offer a range of communal facilities, some of which may be open to the wider public.

Daniela Adamo, Head of Development at C&C, said: “Dora House is a 1960s sheltered housing scheme that is no longer fit for purpose in terms of accessibility and modern space standards.

“This redevelopment project has given C&C the opportunity to implement its own innovative and specialist approach to designing older people’s accommodation that provides a home for life.”

Aerial view of existing Dora House

View of existing Dora House from St John’s Wood Road