SOUTH BANK TOWER
A Case Study in Overcoming Constraints and Maximising Development Value
- Projects by Steve Riddell at previous employers
challenges
South Bank Tower, located on a complex mixed-use site, faced several constraints that limited its development potential. These included complex land ownership issues and restrictive third-party rights. Additionally, the existing office space was unviable, and the Seifert-designed building, dating back to the 1960s, was outdated and underperforming.
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Creative Solutions
Steve identified the opportunity to unlock significant value by taking advantage of the structural redundancy in the original 1960s frame and foundations. This led to the conception of an innovative 'refurbish and extend' scheme. The strategy focused on creating prime residential space within the tower, adding additional floors to the existing structure, and expanding the office podium to increase the building’s commercial value.
A key breakthrough came when neighbouring developments successfully appealed to breach a strategic viewing corridor, enabling the addition of six extra floors. This adjustment was applied for and consented while construction was already underway, maximising the development’s potential.
Outcomes
The project achieved planning consent within 12 months of acquisition, a notable achievement in such a complex urban environment. In total, 12 new floors were added to the existing 30-storey tower, along with 3 new floors to the office podium. Extensive reallocation of third-party access rights and successful neighbourly negotiations were key to delivering the scheme.
The final development created over £600 million in GDV, featuring 193 prime residential apartments, 228,000 sq ft of office space, and 36,000 sq ft of retail. The reuse of the structural frame saved 29,183 tonnes of CO2e, and the development achieved excellent BREEAM ratings, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and high environmental standards.
- Other case studies led by Steve Riddell
