The secretary of state has approved Mitsubishi Estate London and CO-RE’s plans for the redevelopment of the former ITV studios on London’s South Bank.
The original planning application to transform the 2.5 acre site into a new commercially-led mixed-use development was approved by Lambeth Council and the GLA in 2022, but it was called in by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC).
The public inquiry into the application closed in January last year and a decision had originally been due in August 2023, but secretary of state Michael Gove delayed his decision.
The Make Architect-designed development will feature a 25-storey office building connected to two buildings of 14 and 6 storeys alongside new cafes and restaurants, cultural venues and green spaces.
CO-RE and Mitsubishi Estate London are targeting net zero carbon in operation and BREEAM Outstanding for the all-electric, fossil fuel-free scheme.
In a joint statement, Shinichi Kagitomi, CEO of Mitsubishi Estate London, and Stephen Black, director at CO-RE, said: “We are delighted to hear that DLUHC has approved our transformational plans for 72 Upper Ground and the South Bank. Through all stages of the planning process there has been strong recognition of the fantastic addition that 72 Upper Ground will make to the South Bank and to London. Local young creative groups, Lambeth Council, the GLA and now DLUHC have all backed our proposals for a high-quality commercial and arts-led development befitting of one of London’s most famous destinations.
“72 Upper Ground represents a £700m investment in the UK, creating over 4,000 new jobs, and vital new workspace that prioritises sustainability and wellbeing. Crucially, it will benefit the local community through the London Studios, which will provide 40,000 sq ft net of affordable workspace that is tailored to the needs of Lambeth’s emerging creative industries. This includes new cultural venues that have rehearsal space, gallery and presentation spaces and studios, alongside new public spaces with river facing cafes and restaurants.
“We understand and respect the responsibilities that come with building a major new development in this prominent part of central London. We are looking forward to working with our cultural neighbours and the wider community to deliver an outstanding building that makes a significant positive contribution to its place.”
