Hines has secured a resolution to grant planning approval from Southwark Council to build a major new mixed-use development at 18 Blackfriars Road in London.
The plans for the two-acre brownfield site, which were drawn up by Foster + Partners and Lipton Rogers, include 800,000 sq ft of office space and more than 400 new homes – 40% of which will be affordable.
The scheme will comprise two residential buildings and an office building, which will offer 20,000 sq ft of new affordable workspace for local and socially minded enterprises.
The site will also offer assembly rooms for use by the local community, modern educational space with links to local institutions, children’s play areas and a new, central public space with retail and food outlets situated at the heart of the development.
The scheme is designed to be fossil fuel free, 100% electric and net zero carbon in operation, with 95% of the site’s heat demand served by ground source heat pumps that share, store and offset energy.
Ross Blair, senior managing director and country head of Hines UK, said: “Our plans will transform an undeveloped piece of land, most of which has lain empty for over 20 years, into much needed new homes and first class, sustainable and tech-enabled offices, built around a central hub which we hope will become a brand new convening space for the local community.
“Businesses of all sizes and from all sectors are demanding more from their offices because their employees are demanding more from them. 18 Blackfriars is all about rising to that challenge and delivering the office of the future.
“We believe our plans for 18 Blackfriars will set a new standard in premium quality workspace in London, both fully integrated into its hyper-local community and seated right at the heart of our capital city. Bringing this scheme to life underlines our long-term conviction in London as a thriving, global centre for culture, education and business.”
