Phase one for Battersea power station redevelopment submitted for planning

With its towering chimneys and distinctive Art Deco design, Battersea Power station is a prominent part of the London skyline, and since its closure in 1983, the question of what would happen to this iconic landmark has been in question.

Numerous plans for redevelopment have come and gone since the final turbine was switched off nearly 30 years ago, but each one has fallen through, mainly because of the extremely high cost of transforming the grade II listed building into something useful.

But Battersea may finally start getting the attention it deserves, as the first phase of a new redevelopment project has been submitted for planning. And if all goes well, building could start next year, reports ArchitectsJournal.co.uk.

The 102,200 square metre scheme for phase one of the project will feature retail premises, a theatre and some 800 apartments, all incorporated in a large glass-clad building that wraps around the power station in a horse-shoe shape.

From across the river, the new glass structure will provide a frame for Giles Gilbert Scott's architectural masterpiece, but critics of the project say that modern construction will obscure views of the power station - such as the one from Chelsea Bridge Road.

The Twentieth Century Society, which has raised concerns about the proposal, said that the ability to see the four chimneys of the power station is essential, due to their iconic status.

"They remain the most recognisable element of the structure and a key part of London's skyline. We urge the new owners to take this unique opportunity to change their strategy and ensure that these historic chimneys are retained as part of the forthcoming phase 2 works," said a press statement from the group.

Of course, this project is just the first of a longer-term £8 billion plan to redevelop the entire area around the crumbling building by 2024. The overall master plan will cover some 940,000 square metres, including some 3,500 flats to rent in Battersea, along with a 2.4 hectare park.

Posted by Ben Carter

Published 9th October, 2012

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