Planning permission has been granted by the London Borough of Southwark to Alumno for the construction of high-quality purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) in Elephant and Castle.

The development consists of a 24-storey tower and will regenerate a constrained brownfield site and provide 244 student rooms together with a range of communal spaces for quiet study and socialising. The site’s three railway arches will also be redeveloped to provide 67sqm of commercial space for independent and local businesses.  

Gerard Maccreanor, the Maccreanor Lavington Founding Director, said: “Despite the constrained site, the development will play a part in activating the Low Line, the new walking destination running the length of the Victorian rail viaducts that span Bankside, London Bridge and Bermondsey. Its aim is to provide an engaging and well-lit public space along the ground floor level – a lively alleyway reminiscent of the fascinating hidden and unexpected passages of London.” 

A substantial £11.1m contribution will also be made towards funding affordable housing in the area.

On giving the green light to the project, Southwark’s Planning Officer described the building as a “carefully conceived scheme which will provide an engaging building of an appropriate urban character”. 

David Campbell, Alumno Managing Director, said: “We’re delighted to have been given the go-ahead to develop this project on the corner of Southwark’s Rockingham Street and Tiverton Street, next to the railway viaduct. It will help meet the demand for student accommodation in the area, while freeing up housing for local people. We’re looking forward to working in the borough again to provide a building of the highest quality.”