UK: US developer Hines has submitted plans for three towers on a site near Blackfriars Bridge on the south bank of the Thames.
The site, 18 Blackfriars Road, formerly the headquarters of supermarket chain Sainsbury’s, has been underdeveloped for more than 20 years, but planning permission has now been submitted to transform the location situated near the Tate Modern, National Theatre, and the Southbank Centre.
Alongside two residential buildings which will provide 400 homes, Hines also has plans to build a new public space called the Rotunda and office space. Around 20,000 square feet of the workspace will be affordable and aimed at supporting “local and socially minded enterprises”.
Existing planning permission exists for two towers, however the new development extends to a third. The proposals, designed by Foster & Partners, will see the erection of three buildings of 45,40 and 22 storeys, the tallest of which will be a 199-metre office building. The plans also include retail and food outlets, office and residential amenities, cultural and performance facilities, educational spaces, as well as other flexible uses.
Ross Blair, senior managing director and country head of Hines UK, said: “The significant investment we are planning underlines our firm belief in London, and its enduring appeal as a global centre for business. We believe that our proposals for 18 Blackfriars Road will add significant value to the already established growth story of the Southbank and Bankside neighbourhoods, and as a long-term owner and operator we are deeply invested in the future success of the site and the benefits it will bring to the Southwark community.”
“Occupiers are demanding more from their spaces to attract and retain the best people, the lines have blurred between workspace, wellness and leisure, and our design truly responds to these needs, offering an inspirational mix of spaces that foster collaboration. In many places around the world, Hines has successfully delivered environments which connect with the local community through a rich arts and wellbeing programme for the benefit of generations to come,” he added.
