Hardess Yard Co-Living Scheme, Lambeth

Client: LGL

Architect: PLP Architects

Description of Development: Demolition of existing industrial units and construction of a phased, mixed-use development including a 320-unit co-living scheme and a light industrial building with public realm improvements.

Location: 1, 3-11 Wellfit Street, 7-9 Hinton Road, and Units 1-4 Hardess Street, Loughborough Junction, Lambeth, London, SE24 0HN

GLA guidance recognises co-living as a valuable component of London's housing strategy

Summary

The Hardess Yard Co-Living Scheme transforms a collection of industrial units into a vibrant mixed-use development. Located in Loughborough Junction, the project aligns with Lambeth’s Creative Enterprise Zone strategy and London Plan housing and industrial policies. This scheme introduces innovative co-living arrangements, coupled with light industrial spaces, contributing to housing diversity and economic activity.

Key Issues Addressed

1. Land Use Principles: The proposal aligns with policies supporting mixed-use developments in creative enterprise zones, providing a balance of residential and industrial spaces. It reuses underutilised land to deliver 320 co-living units and 1,421 sqm of high-quality industrial floorspace. The site is referenced in Lambeth’s Draft Site Allocation Development Plan Document (SADPD) as suitable for residential use; however, due to the stage of the plan-making process and the nature of representations received during consultation, only limited weight was afforded to this emerging policy.

   
   

2. Urban Design and Height: The design integrates with the surrounding urban fabric, with stepped massing to reduce visual impact and create a cohesive streetscape. The tallest element stands at 47.85m, complementing nearby developments such as Higgs Yard.

   
   

3. Transport Infrastructure: Enhancements include new pedestrian and vehicle routes linking Wellfit Street and Hardess Street, 240 cycle parking spaces, and provisions for sustainable transport.

   
   

4. Sustainable Development: Achieving BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ ratings, the project incorporates green roofs, photovoltaic panels, and a high Urban Greening Factor (0.423). It achieves a 59% reduction in regulated carbon emissions for the residential component.

   
   

5. Environmental Considerations: Measures include enhanced drainage systems, biodiversity net gain of over 2326%, and mitigation of flood risks. Public realm upgrades introduce landscaped areas and improved pedestrian connections.

   
   

6. Community Impact: The project secures an affordable housing contribution of £9.21 million and integrates communal amenities, such as shared lounges, co-working spaces, and a gym. Local charities and organisations will have access to dedicated community spaces.

   
   

Development Highlights

• Co-Living Innovation: 320 units designed to provide high-quality private and shared spaces, fostering community living.

  
  

• Sustainability Features: Targeting net-zero carbon through efficient design and renewable energy systems.

  
  

• Creative Economy Support: Dedicated light industrial spaces to nurture Lambeth’s creative industries.

  
  

• Public Realm Enhancements: New pedestrian routes and landscaped amenity areas to activate the streetscape.

  
  

Maddox Planning's expertise in navigating complex planning policies, engaging stakeholders, and delivering innovative solutions ensured the Hardess Yard Co-Living Scheme not only secured approval but also set a benchmark for sustainable, community-focused development in Lambeth.