Approval Granted for PBSA in Elephant and Castle

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

Alumno is the developer behind the tower, which has been designed by Maccreanor Lavington Architects.

The tower will provide 244 student rooms along with a variety of communal spaces and will regenerate a constrained brownfield site.

Additionally, the site's railway arches will be redeveloped to provide 67 sqm of commercial space for local businesses.

Director of Maccreanor Lavington, Gerard Maccreanor, commented: "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."

The development will feature artwork commissioned by Southwark-based artists reflecting the history of the area.

A contribution of over £11m will also be made to fund affordable housing in the area.

Southwark's planning officer praised the building as a "carefully conceived scheme which will provide an engaging building of an appropriate urban character".

Managing director of Alumno, David Campbell, stated: "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.

"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 worked on several PBSA schemes with Southwark Council, including Bermondsey Spa, which opened to students in September of last year.