Following the grant of permission for Mitsubishi and CO-RE’s 72 Upper Ground scheme in 2024, local objectors launched a legal challenge. In a judgment given in late December 2024, Mould J rejected the claim. No appeal has been made, leaving the scheme free from legal challenge. Mould J’s judgment can be found here.
- The scheme will transform the 2.5-acre site into a new commercially-led mixed-use development which prioritises wellbeing and sustainability, targeting completion in 2028/2029.
- The development 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.
- 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 development will transform 40% of the site into 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.
London Studios
- Central to 72 Upper Ground is the London Studios is a multi-level cultural and innovation hub extending across the basement, ground and first floors. This space would provide around 40,000 sq ft net affordable workspace (which is much larger than the existing studios and twice as large as the Young Vic) for the creative industry sector and enable on-site cultural production and consumption.
- It has been 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.
Rupert Warren KC advised throughout the process, including representing the Applicant at the call-in inquiry and on the legal challenge. He was instructed by Martin Evans and Isabella Sgambellone of CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP. The scheme design is by Frank Filskow of Make, and evidence was given by Prof Robert Tavernor, Chris Goddard of DP9, Jerome Webb of GIA, Matt Collinson of ARUP and Paul Finch OBE.
Photo by Make Architect
