First Base gets go-ahead for Elephant & Castle scheme

Elliott Lipton’s First Base has gained consent for its Printworks scheme in Elephant & Castle, South London, one of the first developments created by the government’s drive to build 4,500 privately funded affordable homes in London. As part of the government’s London Wide Initiative, the Lend Lease-backed developer has gained consent for a nine-storey, 164-home block designed by architect Glenn Howells. It will be located on Amelia Street in Elephant & Castle, SE17, and will provide 42% affordable housing. The site is owned by national regeneration agency, English Partnerships and the project is supported by English Partnerships, The Housing Corporation, the GLA and the Department of Communities and Local Government as part of a government drive to fast-track more quality homes for key workers in the capital. First Base said an “innovative” section 106 agreement had been drawn up which will in part contribute to a design competition for the public realm. Richard Powell, director of First Base, said: “We believe this is the first time a developer in London has worked with both residents and the council to specifically direct the use of money from the Section 106 funding, even before planning was submitted.” paul.norman@rbi.co.uk