Mitsubishi Estate London and CO—RE have awarded Multiplex the €595m contract to deliver the landmark redevelopment of the former ITV studios on London’s iconic South Bank, with construction commencing immediately and targeting completion in 2029.
The project partners received the go-ahead from the High Court in December to transform the c. 1-ha site into a new commercially led mixed-use development which prioritises wellbeing and sustainability. Demolition contractor McGee has begun initial works.
The development, designed by Make Architects, will create a 25-storey office building connected to two buildings of 14 and 6 storeys. Alongside high-quality and affordable workspace, space will be specifically tailored to the needs of Lambeth’s emerging creative industries as well as the addition of new cafes and restaurants, cultural venues and open, green spaces.
Shinichi Kagitomi, Chief Executive of Mitsubishi Estate London, said: “Starting on site marks a major milestone for this landmark development, which will make a significant positive contribution to the South Bank.”
Stephen Black, Director at CO—RE, added: “Multiplex brings world-class construction expertise to the project. We look forward to working in partnership with them and Mitsubishi Estate to deliver an outstanding building.”
Callum Tuckett, UK Managing Director at Multiplex, said: “We are very proud to be involved with such an exciting mixed-use development, which will transform this part of the South Bank. We have a highly experienced and talented project team on site and are looking forward to delivering a high-quality scheme that matches the ambitions of all project partners and stakeholders.”
Sustainability is at the forefront of the all-electric, fossil fuel-free scheme, which is targeting net zero carbon in operation along with BREEAM ‘Outstanding’, the highest certification of sustainability. The creation of new green spaces will boost biodiversity and reduce CO2 levels. 1,300 cycle parking spaces, with high-quality end-of-trip showers, lockers and changing facilities will encourage active travel to the site.
The scheme also targets the highest WELL certification, Platinum. The well-being of office workers is central to the design, extending the workspace outdoors with external terraces and balconies overlooking the Thames to give greater access to fresh air and natural light.
The development will transform 40% of the site into a public realm, opening up a currently closed-off site on the popular South Bank and adding two new public squares, an active ground floor and several public walkways. The design also includes a new public rooftop restaurant and terrace.
Central to 72 Upper Ground is the London Studios, a multi-level cultural and innovation hub extending across the basement, ground and first floors. It will provide rehearsal space, gallery and presentation spaces, soundproofed studios, and education and training spaces, tailored to the needs of emerging creative industries through an on-site residency programme with Lambeth-based organisations including Black Cultural Archives, Iconic Steps and Young Creators UK.
The London Studios will provide around 3,716m2 net affordable workspace for the creative industries and enable on-site cultural production and consumption. Creative organisations will have an unprecedented opportunity to use the space at discounts of up to 90% from open market rents, with the most heavily discounted spaces ring-fenced for not-for-profits committed to supporting disadvantaged young people in the creative and tech economy.
Image source - Catella IM.
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