PBSA in Elephant and Castle gets approval

The construction of a 24-storey tower in Elephant and Castle has received approval from the London borough of Southwark.

The tower was designed by Maccreanor Lavington Architects and developed by Alumno.

Besides regenerating a constrained brownfield site, the tower will offer 244 student rooms and a number of public areas.

Furthermore, the railway arches at the site will be rebuilt to provide 67 square metres of commercial space for local businesses.

Gerard Maccreanor, the director of Maccreanor Lavington, said: “Despite the constrained site, the development will play a part in activating the Low Line, the new walking destination running the length of the Victorian rail viaducts that span Bankside, London Bridge, and Bermondsey.

“Its aim is to provide an engaging and well-lit public space along the ground floor level—a lively alleyway reminiscent of the fascinating hidden and unexpected passages of London.”

Artwork commissioned by Southwark-based artists that reflects the history of the area will be featured on the property.

Over £11 million will also be contributed to the area's affordable housing.

Southwark's planning officer described the tower as a “carefully conceived scheme that will provide an engaging building of an appropriate urban character.”

“We're delighted to have been given the go-ahead to develop this project on the corner of Southwark's Rockingham Street and Tiverton Street, next to the railway viaduct,” said David Campbell, Managing Director of Alumno.

“It will help meet the demand for student accommodation in the area while freeing up housing for local people. We're looking forward to working in the borough again to provide a building of the highest quality.

“I would also like to thank our partners in this project, Melrose Capital, for their ongoing support.”

Alumno has collaborated with Southwark Council on various PBSA projects, including Bermondsey Spa, which opened to students in September of last year.