Transport for London (TfL) has revealed details of a planned multi million pound mixed use redevelopment of London Underground’s Westminster headquarters, a project which will create hundreds of new jobs.
The plans propose to redevelop the Grade 1 listed building at 55 Broadway, near St James’s Park, from ‘outdated’ offices to a landmark residential scheme with adjoining affordable and social housing and improved retail units.
The project will also include public realm improvements as part of TfL’s strategy to generate around £3.5Bn of non-fare revenue, which it says will be reinvested into improving London’s transport network.
22% of homes created at the site will be affordable, including a number of high quality three bed duplex flats for social housing for families. TfL said it intends to maintain the heritage of the building, enabling many of its original features to be retained.
TfL appointed architects TateHindle to prepare the planning proposals earlier in the year. TateHindle director Andrew Tate said the plans will re-establish a direct route from Victoria Street through to the St James’s Park station ticket hall, with a resulting increase in retail space. He added that removal of a 1970s building will provide a new entrance court, creating a natural separation of the residential from the station and retail elements.
TfL is now leading the work to prepare a planning application for submission next month. The transport authority said it will launch a process to identify a mix of private sector development partners next year.
TfL director of commercial development Graeme Craig said: “Our aim is to make life in London better and help keep the city working and growing. This means recognising our role as the custodian of one of London’s largest and most valuable property portfolios and developing our assets for the benefit of the city.”
