The planning team at Newmark UK, on behalf of developer AVF Developments, has obtaining a resolution to grant planning permission for a PBSA scheme at 141 Woolwich Road in east Greenwich, London.
Designed by Apt, the new scheme will deliver 190 student beds a mix of twin rooms, en-suite and studio accommodation and commercial space. It includes three blocks of student housing, one seven storeys tall, connected by a podium. 35% of the accommodation will meet the GLA definition of affordable student accommodation. The scheme is targeting a BREEAM rating of Excellent.
Residents will have access to shared amenity spaces including kitchen, dining, study and recreational spaces, contained within a high-performing building fabric, and serviced by renewable energy sources.
Each of the student blocks will be served by their own core with two stairs and lifts in each. These will land on the ground floor and be accessed via shared amenity spaces including study areas, lounges and game rooms overlooking pocket gardens along Woolwich Road and Dandridge Close.
The site offers good opportunities for providing high-quality public realm, which will revitalise the Woolwich Road frontage and significantly improve the streetscape along Dandridge Close.
“We are extremely happy with the Board’s decision, and it reinforces our belief that this will be a fantastic addition to the local area. Our thanks go to the consultants, but in particular to Apt and Newmark for leading the team and working to achieve such a positive outcome.
“This is an excellently located site for students, only a short cycle to the University of Greenwich’s Maritime Campus and well connected to other institutions via public transport. We look forward to continuing with the next phases of design in anticipation of a start on site next year.”
Adil Adil, CEO, AVF Developments
Rain gardens and trees will contribute to a sustainable urban drainage strategy and plans include a new dedicated footway on Dandridge Close. The planting strategy will see a Biodiversity Net Gain of over 1000%, whilst visible and accessible cycle stores at ground floor will promote sustainable travel.
Architecturally, rich tones of red brick reference the historic buildings found in the local area, whilst cast masonry lintels, brick detailing and dark profiled metalwork create layering and depth. Internally, the layout takes advantage of natural light, ventilation and aspect.
“We are delighted that The Royal Borough of Greenwich Planning Board has granted approval for our scheme. We have worked extremely hard over the past two years to create an exceptional building that responds to this challenging site and the University of Greenwich’s design guide, which exemplifies the wider demands of modern student living.”
James Ewen, Executive Director, Apt
The plot is located east of Greenwich Park and was formerly occupied by a Speedy Services tool hire on the A206 Woolwich Road, one of the main routes, through the borough, connecting Greenwich with Plumstead.
The development site is located within a 45-minute commute of 28 higher education institutions, including internationally renowned universities such as King’s College London, LSE and UCL.
The wider project team includes Gerald Eve for planning; XCO2 for building services and energy, sustainability and environmental; Point 2 Surveyors for daylight/sunlight; KM Heritage for townscape, heritage and visual impact; Kanda for statement of community involvement; Greengage for ecology; RGP for transport; Hoare Lea for security; Orion for fire; and Meinhardt for flood risk.
