British Land and AustralianSuper have unveiled the future vision for the Printworks building in The Grand Press, a new workspace offering, subject to planning permission, it integrates 158,000 sq ft of flexible workspace alongside a rich cultural offering.
The building, previously known as Harmsworth Quays, was once Europe’s largest printing facility dating back to 1989. It now stands as central London’s last major unconverted industrial building. The plans retain and integrate much of its original character and features, whilst delivering sustainable workspace which will co-exist alongside innovative cultural and leisure uses, overlooking a new 3.5-acre park and a short stroll from the River Thames and historic docks.
Roger Madelin, Joint Head of Canada Water at British Land, said: “The Printworks building is one of the many gems within the Canada Water Masterplan; we have taken inspiration from its heritage to design a state-of-the art complex that pays homage to the asset’s evolution over the past three decades and offers a compelling blend of modern workspace, cultural experiences and leisure activities, fostering collaboration and creativity. We were keen to capture the extraordinary character and volume of this building through our ambitious retrofit programme, ensuring a long term and sustainable future for the reinvented Printworks which fully embraces its multi-layered potential.”
The Grand Press will comprise 158,000 sq ft of Grade A workspace with strong sustainability, amenity, technological and wellness credentials. Spread over seven storeys with high ceilings, the highly adaptable and flexible workspaces will be centred around a vast atrium formed from the old printing press hall. The Grand Press promises a dramatic arrival experience, while over 10,000 sq ft of external terraces off the third to sixth floors will offer panoramic views across London,
Mike Wiseman, Head of Office Leasing at British Land, said: “The Grand Press will be one of the most exciting workspace schemes ever launched to the London market – a unique opportunity for any forward-thinking business that uses workspace as a key representation of its own brand and its relationship with its employees. The iconic building complements the wider commercial offering that will be delivered across the Canada Water Masterplan, promoting a hive of business activity in this pocket of central London where occupiers will benefit from exceptional transport links, extensive food and retail options, and an abundance of surrounding green and blue spaces.”
The redevelopment forms part of the second phase of the Canada Water Masterplan, with practical completion expected in Q3 2026. Phase 1 of the development includes 300,000 sq ft of highly sustainable workspace at Three Deal Porters and The Dock Shed on Deal Porters Way, and 33,000 sq ft of lab space at the Paper Yard’s life sciences quarter.
