- Construction has commenced at St George's landmark tower, One Blackfriars, designed by award-winning Ian Simpson Architects.
- One Blackfriars will be a new landmark for Southwark and London, providing 274 apartments, as well as high quality retail and restaurant space, a boutique-style hotel and new landscaped public piazza.
St George, London's leading residential developer has commenced construction of their landmark tower, One Blackfriars. The ground breaking, on Monday 21st October 2013, marks the next chapter in the regeneration of Blackfriars Road and will contribute to the continuing regeneration of the South Bank.
One Blackfriars, a 50 storey tower, will be a new London landmark and will create a vibrant new destination. When complete, the development will provide 274 homes, a boutique-style hotel, shops and a new public piazza. A viewing lounge on the 32nd floor will be a unique amenity for the local community and businesses.
One Blackfriars will see the creation of about 200 full time jobs after completion as well as over 600 jobs in construction. St George is investing £680,000 in local employment and training initiatives, including the employment of 25 apprentices throughout the project. Local resident Harry Headley is the development's first Southwark resident employed as part of St George's employment and training commitments and will be attending the ground breaking.
Southwark Council Leader Peter John said:
"I am delighted that St George has commenced construction and will transform this site which has been derelict for over a decade. The landmark tower will be a fantastic addition to London's skyline and will signpost the gateway to Southwark, signifying the borough's continued regeneration. One Blackfriars will make an important contribution to our vision for the transformation of Blackfriars Road supported by the creation of a new landscaped public piazza"
Michael Bryn-Jones, Managing Director of St George South London, comments:
"We are delighted that construction is now underway at One Blackfriars and to be contributing to Southwark's vision for the area.
"One Blackfriars will create hundreds of new jobs, homes and a new public piazza, as well as contributing to local infrastructure, public realm and affordable housing.
"Today's ground breaking is a testament to the strong partnership St George has established with the London Borough of Southwark and the GLA, who have all been tirelessly committed to delivering this stalled site."
Once complete, the development will create a dramatic and shimmering tower providing uninterrupted views overlooking St Paul's and the City.
Architect Ian Simpson comments:
"Our vision is to contribute positively to the London skyline, to create a beautiful and elegant structure that complements London's historic and contemporary icons such as St Paul's and 30 St Mary Axe. It is through the creation of new landmarks that London reinvents itself and maintains its global status."
For further press information, please contact Luisa Lagerwall or Freddy Fontannaz at TTA Property on 0207 861 2040.