UK's first women-only tower block to open in west London next summer

17 June 2025

A groundbreaking new housing development in Acton, west London, will become the UK’s first residential block exclusively for women. Currently under construction, Brook House will offer 102 genuinely affordable social rented flats, replacing an outdated 39-home estate. The initiative aims to provide a lifeline for single women and survivors of domestic abuse, who often face significant barriers to securing housing.

The homes will be managed by Women’s Pioneer Housing, a historic organisation founded by suffragists in 1920, which currently oversees around 1,000 properties in West London. The new tenants will be drawn from Ealing Council’s waiting list - where over 600 single women are currently registered—and through Women’s Pioneer Housing referrals. Rents at Brook House will be significantly below market rates, averaging less than a quarter of the cost of private rentals for similar properties.

Ealing Council Leader Peter Mason highlighted that the development addresses the needs of women disproportionately affected by crises, including domestic abuse. He noted that nearly 3,500 domestic abuse cases were recorded in Ealing in the past year and emphasised that the gender pay gap continues to restrict women's ability to afford housing.

Brook House replaces homes built over 90 years ago and expanded in the 1970s, which the council deemed unsuitable for modern living and beyond refurbishment. The project is being developed by housing association L&Q and is expected to be completed by summer 2026.

Tracey Downie, Chief Executive of Women’s Pioneer Housing, stressed the ongoing need for high-quality, affordable homes for women, especially during the current cost-of-living and energy crises. She called the new block a vital step in supporting women in desperate need of safe and secure accommodation.

Read the full article