Plans for new homes and shops form part of Tube redevelopment in South Kensington

BY KATE DENNETT
yann@slpmedia.co.uk

Plans have been approved to transform a Tube station and give residents new homes and more shops.

Transport for London (TfL) and Native Land have unveiled their plans to restore South Kensington Tube station and the streets around it with new homes, shops and work areas.

The proposals include building 40 new homes and a new range of shops, restaurants and offices. South Kensington Tube station will become more accessible as there will be step-free access to the ticket hall and District and Circle line platforms, with a new entrance in Thurloe Street.

The proposals have been designed by Stirling Prize-winning architect Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners and will repair and enhance the Grade-II listed station and its historical location.

They aim to respect the historic value of the area in their developments. The plan proposes the development of a new building adjacent to station entrances.

The five-storey building will serve as a landmark for the station, which grants access to London’s cultural quarter. The building will provide locals and tourists with new shopping and dining options on their travels through South Kensington.

The new building has been called the ‘bullnose’ building because of its shape. It is inspired by the initial 19th century vision for the site but adds a new contemporary feel to the style.

Graeme Craig, director of commercial development at TfL said: “We are excited to be working with Native Land on these important proposals which will transform the area around South Kensington Tube station.

“Our aim has been to create a proposal that honours the heritage of the station and reflects the historic legacy and architecture of the area as well as its unique setting as a gateway to some of the most important and treasured cultural institutions in the world.

“Our proposals provide a range of improvements, including step-free access, as well as new homes and opportunities for upgraded retail and commercial space, generating vital revenue to reinvest in the transport network”.

A number of new homes will also be built around the station in various different streets.

Pelham Street will welcome some of these new homes and replace the historic row of buildings that were previously placed there.

Thurloe Square, Thurloe Street and Regency facade will also become new residential locations, replacing older buildings which have been demolished over the years.

It is hoped these buildings will give more of a community feel to the location and provide independent outlets with a new chance for retail expansion.