Recent housing developments in south west London have led to significant tenant evictions, drawing attention to the complexities of council acquisitions and private landlord actions. Two notable cases—in Richmond and Colliers Wood—highlight the challenges faced by residents amid property transactions and no-fault eviction notices.

Council Acquisition in Richmond Prompts Evictions

In Richmond, over 30 households at Garden Court, located opposite Kew Gardens, have been instructed to vacate their homes. The landlord, Dorrington, is preparing to sell the block to Westminster City Council for £16 million. The council plans to convert the properties into temporary accommodation to support those on its housing waiting lists.

Westminster City Council confirmed that the purchase was contingent on the building being vacant, with Dorrington responsible for issuing eviction notices. Dorrington stated that residents were informed of the plans in February 2025, and many have already relocated. The company also noted that tenants with protected tenancies would be allowed to remain under the new ownership.

Private Landlord Evictions in Colliers Wood

Meanwhile, in Colliers Wood, at Britannia Point, at least 130 tenants renting from Criterion Capital have received Section 21 eviction notices. This large-scale issuance of no-fault evictions has raised concerns among residents and local representatives alike.

The local Member of Parliament highlighted the timing of these notices, which precede upcoming legislative changes aimed at reforming eviction processes. She addressed Prime Minister Keir Starmer, stating: “Silently and in semi-secrecy London and the South East of England are experiencing the largest mass eviction by a private landlord in decades.” She emphasised that those affected had committed no wrongdoing.

In response, Prime Minister Starmer has tasked Housing Secretary Steve Reed with investigating the situation. Criterion Capital denied any intention to accelerate evictions ahead of legislative reform.

Community Impact and Political Reactions

One long-term resident at Garden Court, who has lived there for 16 years, expressed concern that the eviction notices would dismantle a well-established community. He is currently seeking ground-floor accommodation nearby to maintain his support network.

Richmond Council has called for urgent discussions with Westminster City Council, describing the eviction notices as a shock. Councillor Paul Swaddle criticised the short two-month notice period, stating: “There is no justification for throwing people, including elderly and vulnerable residents, out of their homes at two months’ notice.” He further condemned the situation as “an act of staggering hypocrisy,” given the Labour Party’s public stance against no-fault evictions.

The Mayor of London also condemned the evictions, describing it as “unacceptable to force people out of their homes for no good reason.”

What this means for landlords

These cases underscore the delicate balance landlords must maintain between managing property transactions and respecting tenant rights, especially in the context of evolving housing legislation. Landlords should be aware of the potential reputational and legal risks associated with issuing no-fault eviction notices, particularly when legislative reforms are imminent.

Engaging proactively with tenants and local authorities can help mitigate community disruption and foster goodwill. Moreover, understanding the protections afforded to tenants with secure tenancies is crucial when negotiating sales or changes in property use.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

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