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Lambeth approves Shell Centre redevelopment plans


Lambeth Council's planning committee has resolved to grant planning permission for a mixed-use redevelopment of the 3.5 hectare Shell Centre site near Waterloo Station on London's South Bank.

The plans will see the existing 1950s 27-storey Shell Tower remain in place and the construction of eight buildings ranging between five and 37 storeys in height. The buildings will comprise up to 877 new homes, including 98 affordable homes, as well as 76,000 square metres of office space, shops, restaurants and cafes.

The scheme also includes construction of new pedestrian routes to improve connections between Waterloo Station and the South Bank, including a widened approach to the London Eye and a 'city square' to provide open space and enhanced public realm.

The scheme will be delivered by Braeburn Estates, a joint venture between the Canary Wharf Group and Qatari Diar Group.

The Council's planning officer said in the committee report (168-page / 946 KB PDF) that the scheme would enable "significant regeneration benefits" to be provided, including the new homes, a contribution of £9.7 million in additional household spend as well as £5.9m employee spend to the local economy.

The report said that the Council would seek a "multi-million pound investment" in the local area through section 106 contributions, including open space, sports and leisure provision, education, health, community facilities and transport.

"Although there are some transport and environmental impacts from the scheme, there is an inevitability in this respect, and the impact is considered to be negligible and in all other cases overcome by conditions," the report said.

“We are delighted that Lambeth Council has approved these plans for us to work on such an important and historical site," said Canary Wharf Group chief executive Sir George Iacobescu in a statement.

“We will continue to work with the London Borough of Lambeth and the local community as we move to the next phase of planning and development to ensure that all involved in the area get the best possible opportunities from this new development,” he said.

“Our development will be a unique place to live and work in the centre of London, providing locals and visitors alike with much needed public space, entertainment and culture," said Qatari Diar Group chief executive officer Khaled Al Sayyed.

Construction on the scheme is expected start later this year and to take six years to complete.

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