Bankside Yards in Blackfriars, London

The revitalisation of the Thames' South Bank, an ambitious project underpinned by a £2.5 billion investment, has culminated in the transformative development known as Bankside Yards. This expansive scheme is a multi-faceted destination bringing together commercial spaces, residential living, well-being facilities, and retail offerings in an unparalleled urban setting. Characterised by its distinctiveness and independence, Bankside Yards presents an immersive leisure and retail experience unlike any other, revitalising 14 historical railway arches that have been dormant for 150 years, and integrating them into a vibrant public realm that invites both residents and visitors to revel in the energy of this riverside destination.

Spanning 5.5 acres, Bankside Yards is redefining riverside living across its expanse, which includes 650 apartments distributed among six striking buildings, and an array of amenities and commercial spaces amounting to over 350,000 square feet. This encompasses 50,000 square feet dedicated to retail, bars, restaurants, and cultural pursuits, all situated beneath the canopy of the resurrected arches. The development strides toward a new chapter in urban living, balancing work life, home life, and cultural enrichment within its contemporary quarters and heritage-infused spaces alike. Notably, a singular 5-star hotel enhances the location by offering an urban resort experience, contributing to the wide-ranging amenities that encompass medical to spa services, catering to the needs and desires of both inhabitants and visitors.

Transport connectivity stands at the core of Bankside Yards' design, fostering ease of access to and from the area through an array of trains, buses, riverboats, and Tube stations, alongside provisions for active travel like pathways and cycle lanes. This connectivity extends into the realm of culture and business, situating prospective residents and businesses in the heart of London's cultural scene with neighbours including the Tate Modern and Globe Theatre, while also offering proximity to the city's business districts.

The project prioritises sustainability and community integration, aiming to deliver over 300 affordable homes, create local employment opportunities, and facilitate green transportation options. It showcases a commitment to environmental responsibility through initiatives such as the use of renewable energy sources across all buildings, making it the UK's first major mixed-use development free from fossil fuels. The sustainability efforts extend to the incorporation of advanced energy-efficient technology and systems, including air source heat pumps and an electric underground logistics network, significantly reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the development's green footprint.

As Bankside Yards looks to the future, it does so with a reverence for the past, seeking to become a vibrant community hub where sustainability, culture, and innovation flourish. Through a partnership of world-class real estate leaders and visionary investment, it aspires to contribute positively to the lives of those who reside within, visit, or work in this dynamic environment, positioning itself as a beacon of modern riverside living in London.