Henderson’s plans for the redevelpment of Smithfield Market have been given the thumbs up by another government body.
Cabe at the Design Council has welcomed the John McAslan + Partners designs, labelling them a “sophisticated response to the distinctive and changing character of the area”.
The site, which forms the western edge of the historic Smithfield Market and contains buildings dating back to 1883, is located within the Smithfield Conservation Area.
Henderson’s plans include around 230,000 sq ft of new commercial space.
While Cabe praised the architectural ambition of the scheme, it said it felt the design would “benefit from further attention to ensure it is both welcoming and allows a full appreciation of the buildings’ original features”.
Paul Finch, deputy chair of Design Council/Cabe, said: “This design is a welcome example of a new attitude to the existing site, where substantial new space is required, but where essential elements of previous architectural history are kept. This approach is likely to continue and can give useful design impetus to hybrid futures.”
Earlier this month English Heritage gave its backing for the controversial redevelopment.
samantha.mcclary@estatesgazette.com
