A major residential and office regeneration scheme for the south bank of the River Thames to include a 48 storey tower block, has been given the go ahead by Southwark Council’s Strategic Planning committee.
According to developer Carlyle Group, the project will create a destination neighbourhood with around 490 new homes, 41,800m² of office space, 2,300m² of retail as well as new public and cultural areas.
The project will require the demolition of two major buildings, Sampson House data centre and Ludgate House office building, clearing the way for nine new structures ranging in height from five to 48 storeys.
Residential buildings will be positioned towards the north of the site, maximising river views, with office and retail zones located on the southern edge. A public footpath along the river, known as the Upper Ground, will be reinstated as part of the scheme.
PLP Architecture says it has designed an open and accessible urban quarter, directly opposite the City of London. Along with the existing One Blackfriars development, the project will form a physical gateway and landmark for Blackfriars Bridge and Blackfriars Station’s new southern entrance.
“Our vision of an exciting new quarter has taken a significant step towards realisation with the council’s decision. The site is currently under utilised and the support we have received from the local community endorses our belief in the need for change,” said Mark Harris, Carlyle Group Managing Director.
Following the expiration of tenant leases at Ludgate House in early 2015 and Sampson House in 2018, the project will be delivered in multiple phases with works completed between 2020 and 2023.
