UK: The Greater London Authority (GLA) has approved a 46-storey purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme at 7 Brannan Street in Canary Wharf, overturning Tower Hamlets Council’s earlier refusal.
Backed by developer Canary Wharf Group, the new tower will deliver 912 student bedrooms, with 35 per cent (around 320 units) offered at affordable rents.
Designed by architecture firm Howells, the scheme includes a range of cluster rooms (from 13 square metres) to studios (up to 28 square metres), as well as extensive amenity and communal areas across several levels, including rooftop space.
The development will also introduce new public gardens along the waterfront and a ground-floor retail unit.
It forms part of the ongoing regeneration of Wood Wharf, where more than 3,500 residents already live, and will sit alongside retail, hospitality and leisure offerings, as well as access to green and blue spaces such as Eden Dock.
Jules Pipe, deputy mayor of London for planning, regeneration and skills, called in the plans following the local council’s rejection last November, stating that the project supports London’s urgent housing need and contributes to the capital’s ambitious target of delivering 88,000 homes per year.
Pipe said: “While this application is for PBSA, it nevertheless meets a housing demand equivalent to 364 homes,” said Pipe. “World-class higher education institutions are an important economic driver and can support growth and regeneration.”
Canary Wharf Group’s chief development officer, Tom Venner said: “7 Brannan Street will be a fantastic addition to the diverse range of residential offerings at Canary Wharf. This building will help meet the demand for modern, high-quality accommodation located within a metropolitan environment.”
Highlights:
• GLA has approved a 46-storey PBSA scheme at 7 Brannan Street in Canary Wharf
• This comes after Tower Hamlets council had rejected the proposal last November
• The PBSA is part of the ongoing regeneration of Wood Wharf, where more than 3,500 residents already live
