By Megan Stanley

More than 1,500 homes and two sports pitches could replace historic military barracks with links to Florence Nightingale in West London.

Cavalry Barracks has stood proud in West Hounslow for more than 200 years and plans for the redevelopment will be decided this week.

The historic site, on Beavers Lane, consists of 14 grade II listed buildings and has played a key role in British military history, plus has impressive links to the legacy of Florence Nightingale.

The proposals, submitted to Hounslow Council, include 1,525 new homes, with more than 500 designated to be 'affordable' with London affordable rent and social rent options.

Proposals also include more than 490 car parking spaces, plus a mobility hub and retail food store with a collection point for parcels and car club parking spaces.

The central Parade Ground will provide green space for residents which is pitched by developers as a "wonderful place for picnics, sitting, exercising, resting, enjoying nature and playing".

In 27 letters of objection to the plans, residents expressed disappointment at the loss of the heritage and concern that a multistory development would be 'out of character' and 'overwhelm the skyline'.

Others have expressed concerns that the increase in the population would cause high demand for parking spaces, add to the traffic and overwhelm local GP surgeries.

The Victorian Society has said there will be 'unjustifiable harm' to the area and listed buildings. In the report, it says: "Several buildings appear to exceed the height of The Keep and The Hardinge Building.

"Locally Listed Buildings such as stores, ablution blocks, and workhouses should not be dismissed simply as ancillary buildings, but rather recognised as important to the legibility of the barracks as a functional site which has developed in stages over the years. Reusing and readapting Locally Listed Buildings should be promoted."

However, Historic England has expressed no objection. A council report says: "Historic England welcomes these positive amendments and recognise the steps that have been taken through the production of the Heritage Strategy and Design codes to ensure the unique character of the conservation area is preserved and protected throughout the lifespan of the redevelopment"

Transport For London also expressed no concerns about the proposal but has requested financial contributions for Staines Road bus capacity enhancements, and improvements to Hounslow West Underground Station including an additional gate and step-free and capacity improvements.

A total of 33 people expressed their support for the plans, with residents welcoming the opportunity to grow local businesses with increased customers.

Others welcomed the housing investment and cycle bike parking proposed, plus encouraged the council to ensure green space is delivered to benefit local residents.

Cavalry Barracks were first opened amid the French Revolution in 1793, and for more than 200 years it was a permanent home for troops.

In the 20th century, the barracks played a crucial role in both World Wars and continued as the Headquarters for the Eastern Command until 1968.

By 2007, the Victorian buildings were so run down that by 2011, hundreds of new en-suite bed spaces were built by the Ministry of Defence to improve living conditions.

However, in 2016, the Ministry of Defence announced the closure of the site with Hounslow Council approving plans for a sustainable living project in 2019.

The site officially closed in 2021, with the Irish Guards relocating to barracks in Aldershot, Hampshire.

Hounslow Council's planning committee is expected to make a decision on the plans on Thursday (October 13).