The proposed development of Harmsworth Quays in Canada Water, SE16, has cleared a major hurdle after Southwark Council agreed to allow Associated Newspapers to transfer its leases to British Land.
A dispute developed last year after it emerged that Associated was assigning the lease to BL, a move that the council initially blocked.
It now appears the council has received futher information and is prepared to let the transfer of the lease go through. Associated had been understood to have been considering court action to enforce the transfer of the lease, which will not now be necessary.
Among the various proposals for the site is one from Kings College London for a 2,000 student campus on the land, made up of 312,000 sq ft of offices, a student union, sports facilities and a 500-seat lecture hall.
BL is understood to be considering a mixed-use redevelopment complementing its neighbouring Surrey Quays shopping centre, where it has permission for a £34m 114,000 sq ft extension.
KCL said that its plans would “create a vibrant and flexible, university-led town centre, offering a diverse range of facilities and activities for students, staff and the local community.”
It is understood that BL has now met KCL representatives and both parties are enthusiastic about the proposals for the site being complementary. BL is said to believe a university campus would bring many advantages and have spin-off benefits in increased demand for commercial space.
david.harris@estatesgazette.com
