Full Breakdown
Mass Evictions Loom Over St James Place Estate After Sale to BMR Group
6/15/2026, 1:04:19 AM
Section 21 Notices After No-Fault Eviction Ban
On 3 May, two days after the Renters’ Rights Act’s ban on no-fault evictions took effect on 1 May, the 180-home St James Place estate in Bermondsey issued Section 21 notices requiring tenants to vacate by end-June.
Background, Ownership and Rent Increases
Folio London managed the estate from April 2011 until its transfer to BMR Group in October 2025, per Notting Hill Genesis. BMR Group, a specialist in converting private rentals into larger HMOs, acquired the 180-home site. Tenants report rent hikes of up to £900, with current rents at £2,400 per month before bills. The Renters’ Rights Act has not prevented these notices.
Residents’ Experiences
Tenants Asha Garway (13 years) describes feeling “emotionally drained” and worries her autistic son cannot cope with relocation. Wayne Barrow (25 years) received a mass delivery of Section 21 letters, noting “the postman had around 50 letters… all carrying the same information.” Shamiel Ferguson (8 years) reports loft extensions that “taken out all of our sunlight,” shrinking garden space. About 150 residents have been hit with rent hikes or eviction notices.
Official Statements & Responses
Councillor David Watson said the council is urgently investigating how to support residents and described the mass evictions as shameful. He also noted that the council’s powers in this area are limited. Southwark Council is reviewing property-licensing applications for the estate. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government declined comment. Notting Hill Genesis confirmed Folio’s ownership timeline and the disposal to BMR Group. BMR Group did not respond.
Criticism & Opposition
Residents and the St James Residents Association argue that converting the estate into HMOs will eradicate affordable homes with gardens. They contend the Renters’ Rights Act has failed to shield private tenants from sudden evictions and steep rent increases.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
The source states the estate transferred to BMR Group in October 2025, a date that follows the May 2024 eviction notices, creating a timeline gap. Neither the Ministry of Housing nor BMR Group provided answers, leaving the status of licensing applications and HMO plans unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s really tough,” — Asha Garway, tenant.
- “Well intentioned as the [Renters’ Rights Act] might have been, I don’t think it’s really helped any resident who is in privately rented accommodation here,” — Wayne Barrow, resident.
- “I’m here until the end, and I want to stay,” — Shamiel Ferguson, tenant.
- “ “Everyone deserves a secure home, and this mass eviction is shameful.” — David Watson, Southwark Council executive member.
What’s Next
Southwark Council will keep reviewing licensing applications while monitoring HMO conversions. Tenants face eviction deadlines at the end of June and may seek legal advice. The outcome of council investigations and any regulatory rulings will decide whether the estate remains private rental housing or is redeveloped as higher-density HMOs.
