John Lewis's build-to-rent strategy appears to be stalling amid local opposition to its plans for large developments in West Ealing and Bromley.

The retailer has just announced pre-tax losses of �234 million as sales dipped 2% last year, making it even more vital to find new revenue streams.

Last year, it struck a �500m deal with the investment firm Abrdn to build 1,000 residential rental homes on three sites, however, local people and Bromley councillors are challenging the plans and its aspiration to become a huge private landlord.

John Lewis's scheme to redevelop its Waitrose West Ealing site by 2027, which includes three blocks of apartments (main picture) up to 19 storeys high, has incurred the wrath of Ealing campaigning group, Stop The Towers.

Meanwhile, its plans for Bromley include the tallest tower block in the town - 24 storeys '� and 350 flats, which will be considered by the council's planning committee later this year. One councillor has already warned they won't be voting to approve the development.

Warehouse

Although John Lewis has plans to replace its closed warehouse in Reading town centre with homes, no official plan has been submitted.

A John Lewis spokesman tells LandlordZONE: 'By making better use of brownfield sites, we have the opportunity to deliver much-needed private and affordable housing for the local areas as well as improved community facilities and Waitrose shops.

"We have given a great deal of thought to the designs and the latest consultations are another important step in continuing our conversation with councils and local people in helping to shape our plans.'�