Regal London to Transform Orchard Wharf into Mixed-Use Development

Key highlights:

1. Developer Regal London unveils plans to transform Orchard Wharf into a mixed-use development along the Thames River.

2. The plans include 217 new affordable homes, meeting 35% of total units, helping fulfill the Mayor’s pledge of 4,000 new social homes. 

3. There will be around 1,365 purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) beds to address London’s high student housing demand.

4. The development features public realm enhancements like retail and a Visitor Centre. 

5. It retains the safeguarded wharf for a new urban freight port to support London’s last-mile distribution needs.

News in Details:

Developer Regal London has unveiled ambitious plans to redevelop the long-unused Orchard Wharf site along the north bank of the River Thames in London into a vibrant mixed-use community. The proposed sustainable development will feature:

Housing:

– Total homes: 620 units 

– Affordable homes: 217 units (35% of total)

– Affordable units to feature family-sized apartments with amenities like private terraces 

Student Accommodation:  

– Purpose-built student beds: 1,365

– To help address London’s high demand for student housing

Other Features:

– Public realm enhancements   

– Small retail space

– Visitor Centre

Urban Freight Port:

– Safeguarded wharf to be retained  

– Will cater to London’s last-mile distribution needs

The housing and student accommodation will be located atop a “Wharf Box” to keep the freight activity separate. The site aims to revitalise the long-unused 2.5 acre Leamouth Cluster site.

The development aligns with London Mayor Lutfur Rahman’s manifesto pledge of delivering 4,000 new social homes. It also meets the London Plan’s annual requirements for new student housing beds.

Regal London Planning Director Steve Harrington said: _”We have a fantastic opportunity to bring this unloved site back to life…and help meet housing demand.”_ 

The plans, designed by architects Howells, will be submitted for approval in Spring 2024.