Vauxhall Square redevelopment approved for seven new buildings

Lambeth Council has approved a £2 billion redevelopment project at Vauxhall Square in south London. The plan involves the construction of seven buildings ranging from two to 69 storeys tall.

The development includes a 230.5m skyscraper that is set to become the second-tallest residential building in the UK. The project, led by developers BMOR alongside investors Cedarstone Capital Partners and Cheyne Capital, will provide over 1,000 new homes for sale and rent, with 25% designated as affordable housing. Other components include student accommodation, co-living units, office spaces, a hotel, a cinema, and community facilities such as a gym and swimming pool.

The approval was narrow, with the Planning Applications Committee voting four in favour and three against. Opponents raised concerns regarding the reduction of affordable housing from 35% to 25% and the potential impact on local views. Additionally, critics highlighted significant concerns regarding carbon emissions, noting that the projected emissions may far exceed Greater London Authority benchmark targets. As a condition of approval, each phase of the development must undergo a Whole Life Cycle Carbon Assessment prior to construction.