UK: AVF Developments has secured planning approval for a new purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme in Greenwich, south London.
The project, located at 141 Woolwich Road in east Greenwich, will deliver 190 student beds alongside commercial space.
The scheme, designed by the London-based architecture firm Apt, will feature three student housing blocks, including one seven-storey building, connected by a podium.
The accommodation will offer a mix of twin rooms, en-suite units, and studios, with 35 per cent of it meeting the Greater London Authority’s (GLA) definition of affordable student housing.
The development is targeting a BREEAM excellent rating, a sustainability certification system for buildings, infrastructure and planning projects.
Shared amenities will include kitchens, dining areas, study spaces, and recreational zones, all housed within a high-performance building powered by renewable energy.
Each block will have two staircases and lifts, opening onto communal areas such as lounges, game rooms, and study spaces overlooking pocket gardens along Woolwich Road and Dandridge Close.
The project aims to enhance the local area with improved public spaces. Plans include rain gardens, new trees, and a dedicated footway on Dandridge Close, contributing to a sustainable urban drainage strategy.
The planting scheme is expected to deliver a biodiversity net gain of over 1,000 per cent, while ground-floor cycle storage will encourage sustainable travel.
The design uses red brick tones and cast masonry lintels to reflect the historic character of Greenwich. Inside, the layout looks to maximise natural light, ventilation, and views.
The site, previously occupied by a Speedy Services tool hire depot, is located east of Greenwich Park and along the A206 Woolwich Road, a key route connecting Greenwich with Plumstead. It is within a 45-minute commute of 28 higher education institutions, including King’s College London, LSE, and UCL.
The wider project team includes Gerald Eve for planning, XCO2 for sustainability and energy, and KM Heritage for townscape and visual impact assessments.
The development promises to revitalise the Woolwich Road frontage, improve the streetscape, and provide high-quality student housing in a prime location.
AVF Developments CEO Adil Adil said: “We are extremely happy with the Board’s decision, and it reinforces our belief that this will be a fantastic addition to the local area. Our thanks go to the consultants, but in particular to Apt and Newmark for leading the team and working to achieve such a positive outcome.
APT executive director James Ewen: “This is an excellently located site for students, only a short cycle to the University of Greenwich’s Maritime Campus and well connected to other institutions via public transport.
“We look forward to continuing with the next phases of design in anticipation of a start on-site next year,” he added.
