Nine Elms tower block – one of the UK’s tallest blocks of flats, is topped out on schedule for 2022 completion
By Polly Nash
A 53-storey tower block, one of the country’s tallest blocks of flats, is the latest building to be completed in one of the largest residential schemes in the UK.
The multi-million pound development at One Thames City in Nine Elms has 12 buildings with 1,417 new homes, including affordable housing and one to five-bedroom flats.
The scheme, developed by property developers R&F and C C Land, will include shops, restaurants, and more than 120,000sq ft of commercial space, around 2.5 acres of public open space with walkways and cycle paths.
Construction of the newest tower began in 2018, created more than 450 local jobs.
The ‘topping out’ ceremony of the 53-storey No. 8 building – an ancient tradition when the last beam is placed at the top of a structure – was marked by a fireworks display over the river next to Vauxhall Bridge.
Ravi Govindia, leader of Wandsworth council, who set off the fireworks at the ceremony, said: “We had a vision 10 years ago for derelict land at Nine Elms and the topping out of One Thames City is another milestone towards realising that vision.
“I am pleased that this development brings future opportunities for all of us – the jobs and apprenticeships for local people, the homes, offices, retail units and health centre which will open here, and the greenery and new public space that the Linear Park will provide.
“R&F have put this part of Wandsworth, this part of London and this part of the United Kingdom on the map of the world.”
Residents of the No.8 building, which will be completed in 2022, will have access to amenities including a wellness centre, swimming pool, gym, cinema, business centre and valet parking.
One Thames City was developed by Wandsworth and Lambeth councils, including two new Northern line stations opening in 2021 and new parks, school and leisure and health centres.
Pictured top: Property developers R&F and C C Land have topped out a 53-storey tower at One Thames City in Nine Elms, one of the largest residential schemes to be built in the United Kingdom