Ballymore and Hammerson have launched revised proposals for the regeneration of the Bishopsgate Goodsyard.
The revised proposals would create a 10 acre, mixed-use urban quarter in Shoreditch but with a focus on lower building heights, flexible workspace and the creative industries.
Plans for the site have been in train since 2014, but the previous planning application was called in by Boris Johnson, then Mayor of London, the following year. In 2016, the Greater London Authority recommended the permission should be refused.
The development will offer 1.4m sq ft of offices and affordable workspace, 175,000 sq ft of retail and a 250-300 bed hotel. The scheme will be less dense, with a reduction of 1m sq ft of development.
The tallest building will drop from 46 storeys to 29.
The plans will also increase the public realm, with 5.9 acres at ground level and as part of the proposed park on top of the historic Braithwaite Viaduct.
At street level the proposals include a new east-west pedestrian thoroughfare from Brick Lane to Shoreditch High Street. The revisions will also allow more of the site’s heritage to be retained. For example, the listed Braithwaite Viaduct arches will be opened to the public.
The 2014 proposals included a series of tall residential towers along Sclater Street but, in response to local feedback, these have now been replaced with mansion blocks of seven to 14 storeys. The plans include up to 250 homes, of which at least 35% will be affordable.
Tony Coughlan, development manager at Hammerson, said: “The Goodsyard is a highly challenging site with a large number of constraints and comes with a fascinating history. Our updated proposals respond positively to feedback on our planning applications and previous community consultations and constructive conversations with the GLA and the local boroughs.”
Nicola Zech-Behrens, senior development manager at Ballymore, said: “The revised proposals offer a development that brings a more human sense of scale. With reduced heights and greater provision for affordable and creative workspace, the amendments to the application support the area’s local and international reputation as a hub for tech and entrepreneurs. Thanks to smaller retail units, studios and workshops, this part of London will continue to innovate and grow.”
