Two purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) projects by Regal London have been given the go-ahead, bringing forward a total of 1,580 student beds and 200 on site affordable homes alongside new community space, public realm and infrastructure improvements in the London Boroughs of Southwark and Brent.
Earlier this year, Regal London, supported by funding partners UMTB, submitted plans for Devonshire Place, located at 747-759 and 765-775 Old Kent Road in Southwark positioned strategically opposite the proposed new Bakerloo Line station. Following extensive public consultation, the plans include 941 best-in-class student bedrooms and 200 new on-site affordable homes, contributing to over 40% affordable housing. The comprehensive proposal includes provisions for a new convenience food store and GP surgery, along with transport infrastructure upgrades to enhance links with surrounding areas.
Following extensive public consultation, Regal London’s vision for Devonshire Place goes beyond housing, aiming to create a mixed and balanced community through innovative architecture, a community hub and café, open spaces, and quality public realm. This development serves as an opportunity for significant large-scale investment, creating sustainable economic growth, supporting the local community, and fostering growth anticipated by the Bakerloo Line Extension. Shaw Corporation coordinated the planning process and act as development manager for the project.
In Brent, Regal London has been granted permission for 639 student beds at Wembley Greenway, situated to the rear of 390-406 High Road, Wembley. Previously, Regal London gained permission for 359 beds on the adjacent site, the two sites have been brought together, bringing the total number of beds to 998. In partnership with Secure Trust Bank, Regal London are not only introducing a cutting-edge PBSA development but also opening the railway lands parallel to High Road, Wembley, creating a newfound space for both students and the local community.
The Wembley Greenway project is set to deliver a total of 639 student beds, featuring a diverse array of bedroom typologies, including 10% designated as accessible rooms. A car-free design emphasises sustainability, with the development incorporating new public realm areas enriched with greenery, seating, and play spaces accessible to all. Additionally, the project includes a community studio space available for rent.
Both Devonshire Place and Wembley Greenway will be BREEAM Excellent and will seek to be amongst the first PBSA projects in the UK to be WELL Platinum certified, demonstrating Regal London’s commitment to the highest level of health achievements. Construction on Wembley Greenway and Devonshire Place will commence in 2024.
Simon De Friend and Paul Eden, Co-Founders of Regal London commented: “Whilst others may sit on their hands and wait for circumstances around them to change, we have taken the opportunity to bring our PBSA portfolio into the spotlight. With 25 years of experience of residential development behind us, our student projects, with 4,000 beds in the current pipeline, will reflect the continuing quality and design excellence with which we have built our reputation.
“With the available capacity representing only 25% of the student housing requirement, we are looking forward to playing our part in helping to meet London’s urgent student demand.”
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