Essential Living has welcomed the decision by the Planning Inspectorate to grant planning permission for the recladding of one of London’s most hated tower blocks.
Archway Tower in north London is to be converted from an unused, derelict 1960s office block into new high quality apartments that will be managed for long term rent. As well as the re-clad, the tower will get a new two-storey entrance to the building.
Work has already begun on converting the tower’s interior – which was enabled under the Coalition’s extension of permitted development rights. The recent planning decision however, means that Essential Living can now start work on the exterior. The company Is developing a brand focused on the private rental market, and plans to invest more than £30 million to turn Archway Tower into a landmark building to the benefit of the local area and economy.
The company has involved residents, businesses, Members of Parliament, councillors, council officers, and community groups in extensive public consultation, to give people the opportunity to influence the design of the exterior of the building.
The developers, who are designing the building specifically for renters, are promising shared areas and amenity spaces to give urban dwellers a better quality of life. They have also vowed to ensure that construction works takes place with minimal impact on local businesses and residents and are working closely with the owners of Hamlyn and Hill House to ensure this is the case. They will also work closely with London Underground and TfL to maintain full operation of the station during work on the building.
Now that planning permission has been approved, Essential Living will complete the refurbishment, with new residents moving into the Tower in Spring 2016.
Rob Whiting, asset director at Essential Living, said: “We are delighted with the decision which will dramatically improve the exterior of Archway Tower and vastly improve the horizon for many local people. Our plans will bring the building back into use to the benefit of the local area, particularly business close-by.
“As the first UK company focused on creating a rental brand, we have a long term interest in our developments both in terms of how they’re built and how they’re managed. We are looking forward to providing a highly professional service to those who rent homes within Archway Tower, helping to drive up standards in the sector."