Bankside

The site of Bankside 123 was formerly occupied by St Christopher House, a huge and ugly government office block built in the post-war 'utility' era. It was demolished in 2003 after consent had been obtained for the redevelopment of the site, which is to the south of Tate Modern, fronting onto Southwark Street. The development designed by Allies & Morrison consists of three large blocks, separated by public spaces, including two substantial squares lined with shops and restaurants – the site was previously impermeable. The development reflects Southwark’s emergence as a prime office location and is significant too for the way in which it provides connections between Bankside and the hinterland.

Project Bankside, a residential development, was originally to be undertaken by Land Securities but the site was sold on to a joint venture team. Designed by Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners, it occupies the site of a group of undistinguished industrial sheds but adjoins a handsome quadrangle of listed Georgian almshouses. Planning approval for Project Bankside was obtained as part of a deal whereby the developer surrendered a nearby site, where consent had been obtained for a residential tower immediately west of Tate Modern, for use as public open space. The proposed tower had been strongly opposed by some local residents and by Tate Modern. With this agreement in place, planning consent for the Project Bankside scheme was given.