DAS Vol 3 WB03 & 04 & 05

ECD-WBZZ-ZZ-SHR-XX-ZZ-RP-A-000003

Design & Access Statement Volume 3: LBHF Detailed Component

Purpose of issue: S2 - Suitable for information

Revision: P01

Design & Access Statement Volume 3: LBHF Detailed Component

Sheppard Robson/ Serie/ dRMM

EC.LBHF.02

July 2024

We are creating a place the world will watch with wonder, on London’s iconic site of human ingenuity. rough our masterplan, we will reimagine the very fabric of living, working and urban wellbeing for London and future spaces.

Attracting the world’s most inventive, imaginative and extraordinary minds. at place is Earls Court.

Our four place pillars underpin our vision and set the ambitions for the place we want to create.

Nature

A celebration of nature and its ability to connect and revive. Innovation

A showcase for climate and clean innovation and skills.

Culture

A cultural ecosystem for the future of talent.

Neighbourhood

An inspiring neighbourhood designed for all stages of life.

Foreword

After four years of deep consideration and collaboration with stakeholders and local people, The Earls Court Development Company (ECDC) is delighted to present the ambitious future plans for this iconic Site.

We formed in 2021 during the lockdown imposed by the first global pandemic in a century, an era which was both disruptive and formative, demanding that we reflect and reassess how we will be living in the future. There could be no more engaging mission for a team specifically assembled to design a place fit for the 22nd century.

As a team, ECDC shares a passion for transformational inner-city projects, and collectively have wide-ranging experiences from diverse international projects. Together, we are driven to fulfil the opportunities of this complex strategic site for London and rightfully put Earls Court as a place back on the global map.

Our intent from the very beginning, was to take a different approach to community involvement in shaping design. Setting up as a local business and being right next to Site everyday, working closely with both local authorities, the Mayor’s office, local businesses and our neighbours has been fundamental in shaping our plans for the Site, which we believe are more relevant and exciting for it.

We have listened and taken huge inspiration from Earls Court’s heritage, as a place that dared — to showcase, to entertain and celebrate the spectacular. A place that was so clearly cherished for being bold and brave, welcoming people from across the globe.

Our plans retain that innovative spirit that embraces future thinking — an approach we believe has become more important now than ever before. An approach that continues to drive us to create a global exemplar of sustainability.

We understand our responsibility to deliver much needed homes and employment opportunities for London. Critical to achieving these aims is creating a place with personality, a place that once again becomes a destination with a broad cultural appeal and is fully inclusive to all that come to experience it.

The masterplan has been created to prioritise urban wellbeing and includes a network of Exhibition Gardens that will be open and accessible for everyone to enjoy. We’re creating a pedestrian-first environment alive with daytime and evening active uses. This generosity of open space is evident at key arrival points as well as the unique Table Park and Lillie Sidings.

Our commitment to create a better piece of city has been evidenced over the last three years as we have

welcomed over 500,000 people back onto Site to enjoy a programme of events that nod to the past and point to the future of Earls Court.

ECDC began with a mantra ‘to make haste slowly’ and ensure we took the time to both listen and appreciate the world of Earls Court, which helped to establish the early vision to bring the wonder back to Earls Court.

Now, after over four years of consideration, we are proud to present our hybrid planning submission to the authorities for determination — a key milestone to enable the future of Earls Court as a place, once again, to discover wonder.

Rob Heasman CEO e Earls Court Development Company

Aerial view looking west over the Earls Court Development

1 Introduction

1.1 Introduction

This Design and Access Statement has been prepared by Sheppard Robson, Serie and dRMM Architects. It is submitted as part of two Hybrid Planning Applications, one submitted to the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham (‘LBHF’) and one submitted to the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (‘RBKC’).

The Hybrid Applications have been submitted on behalf of the Earls Court Partnership Limited (‘ECPL’),(“The Applicant”). Together the RBKC and LBHF Proposed Developments form the Earls Court Development which comprises the redevelopment of the Site.

The Site, located within the wider Earl’s Court and West Kensington Opportunity Area (London Plan 2021), occupies an area of approximately 18 hectares (approximately 179,965sqm) and is located in both LBHF and RBKC, in West London.

The Site area associated with the LBHF Hybrid Application is 10 hectares (approximately 100,963sqm).

The LBHF Hybrid Application is formed of detailed development proposals in respect of plots WB03, WB04, and WB05 for which no matters are reserved (“LBHF Detailed Component”), and outline development proposals for the remainder of the site, with all matters reserved (“LBHF Outline Component”).

The LBHF Detailed Component and LBHF Outline Component together are referred to as the “LBHF Proposed Development”. This Design and Access Statement relates to the LBHF Detailed Component.

Earl’s Court station

West Brompton station

West Kensington station

Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC)

London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham (LBHF)

Aerial view of the Earls Court Site

1.2 An Extraordinary Opportunity

The Earls Court Development is part of the Earl’s Court and West Kensington Opportunity Area. The Opportunity Area is identified as having the potential to provide substantial numbers of new employment and housing, with a mixed and intensive use of land, assisted by good public transport accessibility.

This designation signifies the Site’s crucial role in helping London to accommodate its growing population in sustainable, healthy and inclusive communities.

London has a finite supply of developable land and few opportunities are left to unlock development potential on such a considerable scale.

The Earl’s Court and West Kensington Opportunity Area is a 38 hectare area identified in the Mayor’s London Plan (London Plan 2021) with the potential to deliver 6,500 new homes and 5,000 new jobs by 2041.

The Earls Court Development covers c.18 hectares of the Opportunity Area and is one of the largest brownfield sites within central London. The Site has the potential to deliver homes and employment on a strategic scale, and to provide a truly inspiring new London district and destination. Earl’s Court and

The Earls Court Development has the potential to deliver strategic benefits for London and be a benchmark for sustainable growth—driven by high aspirations for social value, economic prosperity and growth, and environmental resilience defined by exemplary placemaking and a unique cultural identity.

1.3 A Team Embedded in the Local Community

The Earls Court Development Company (ECDC) is responsible for driving the transformation of the c. 18 hectare, former Earls Court Exhibition Centres Site on behalf of the Earls Court Partnership Limited (ECPL).

ECPL, the Applicant, is a joint venture between Delancey (on behalf of its client funds) and the Dutch pension fund manager, APG and Transport for London (TfL) that was formed in December 2019.

Based on Site at Empress Place since late 2020, ECDC is a proud local business responsible for driving the transformation of the former Earls Court Exhibition Centres Site, Central London’s largest cleared development opportunity.

The Earls Court Development Company (ECDC) Team

1.3 A Team Embedded in the Local Community

It has been important to work with local communities to understand the lived experiences, priorities and aspirations of those who live, work, and go to school in the area. Over the past four years, this careful listening has been central to the design evolution of the masterplan proposals for Earls Court.

The Earls Court Community Hub, staffed entirely by team members recruited from the local area, has allowed strong relationships to be established with its thousands of users. ECDC’s approach to engagement has involved working with resident associations, local amenity groups, charities, businesses and people from around all sides of the Site and across both boroughs. Feedback and input received has proved invaluable to the Design Team who have over multiple iterations, amended and refined the proposals based on what was heard.

Images from ECDC’s engagement programme

1.4 Opening Up the Site to Temporary Activations

ECDC took on the stewardship of a largely underused and forgotten Site, along with 66 derelict properties. This had contributed nothing to the local community since the closure and demolition of the Exhibition Centres in 2015.

From the outset, ECDC recognised the importance of embedding culture, creativity and collaboration through an early activation strategy.

Through the focus on reinstating Earls Court as a destination from day one, the illustrious history of sport, fun and spectacle has been brought back. Festivals, events, art, creative studios, community uses, jobs and training have seen over 675,000 people welcomed to the Site.

Everyday on average c. 2000 people live, work or are entertained in the spaces curated by ECDC. This is central to the commitment to transform this extraordinary Site, putting it back into economic use, delivering social impact and bringing the wonder back to Earls Court.

In 2022, ECDC’s community investment programme generated £7.8 million of social value, £2.7 million of net additional expenditure as well as £2.1 million of additional Gross Value Added (GVA) within the local area.

In 2023, ECDC’s community investment programme generated over £7.9 million of social value, £25.7 million of net additional expenditure as well as £11.9 million of additional GVA within the local area.

Earls Court Community Fund 2023 beneficiaries

1.4

Opening Up the Site to Temporary Activations

Summer of Art - public art activations

July 2021 – current

Partnerships with a variety of cultural partners including London Design Festival, Kensington and Chelsea Art Week and photographer Alison Jackson, have brought public art installations and exhibitions to Site.

Guardianship homes

Summer 2021 – current

In partnership with LOWE Guardians, ECDC refurbished and brought homes on Empress Place and in Seven Stars, North End Road back into use at discounted rents for key workers and people on low incomes. The homes are at full occupation.

The London Wonderground at Earls Court in partnership with Underbelly

Summer 2021 & 2022

Over 160,000 people visited the free to enter festival across both summers to see a range of theatre, circus and comedy, alongside food stalls and fairground rides.

Empress Studios

March 2022 – current

In partnership with This is Projekt, ECDC turned six derelict Victorian townhouses on Empress Place into 46 affordable creative studios designed for the community.

Lillie Road shops

Summer 2021 – current

The pop-up high street on Lillie Road is home to The Prince which hosts a line-up of London’s most in demand street food brands and a huge pub garden, alongside a curated mix of independent retailers.

Community Hub

June 2022 – current

A social haven for the community to enjoy, with a range of free activities alongside a serene garden managed by Hammersmith Community Gardens Association and supported by a residentled gardening club. Each week hundreds of local residents take advantage of the range of classes and happenings at the Hub, which is also home to the 10th Fulham Scouts.

Opening Up the Site to Temporary Activations

The Lost Estate at the former Mannequin Factory

July 2022 – current

A temporary visionary and immersive theatre experience that brings well known stories to life through world-class performances and themed dining.

Padel and Beach Rugby

October 2023 – current

ECDC launched an outdoor Padel showcase court in collaboration with Padel Social Club. A city beach was also installed on Empress Space, programmed with free tag rugby tournaments and children’s rugby coaching sessions. In spring 2024, the Padel Social Club expanded to a further four courts, a club house and bar, and wellness facilities.

Artist in Residence programme

January 2023 – current

In partnership with the National Portrait Gallery, ECDC launched an Artist in Residence programme selecting twelve artists to work with the local community over a three year period to deliver portraits and community arts projects.

Earls Court Skills Centre

November 2023 – current

Together with Places for London and the Skills Centre, ECDC opened West London’s newest cross-borough centre for future education. This will be a central point for training and enterprise throughout the lifetime of the project, working with community groups and future employers to upskill local people.

BBC Earth Experience

March 2023 – January 2024

A world-first, ground breaking new experience narrated by Sir David Attenborough took visitors on an audio-visual experience featuring footage from the series Seven Worlds, One Planet. It was visited by over 375,000 people in 10 months.

The existing structure has been repurposed and this autumn will be home to the first global immersive experience of ‘Come Alive, The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular’.

1.5 Listening to the Community

Over the past four years, ECDC has worked collaboratively with local residents, businesses, stakeholders and interest groups to understand their ambitions for the Earls Court masterplan. Recognising the Site holds a special place in the memories of local people, the vision and the masterplan have been shaped by working with the communities.

Through listening and engaging, as well as activities ranging from family fun-days to street stalls, exhibitions, workshops, door-knocking and sentiment surveys, thousands of people have given their views. A particular focus was on outreach to people whose voices are less often heard, and the Design Team worked through panels and forums to facilitate more in depth discussions. Out of workshops with young people, older people and those with disabilities, the Public Realm Inclusivity Panel (PRIP) was established.

Each iteration of the masterplan was publicly exhibited and staffed by members of ECDC and the wider Project Team, with thousands of residents attending in person or submitting feedback. The changes made following feedback were then tested through surveys with a high rate of return and 76% of respondents supporting the ongoing iteration of the masterplan.

Total engagement since 2020

2,707 2,562 1,917 800+ 722 493 50+ 76% 17,000+

unique visits to the Commonplace consultation microsite

survey contributions from 1,518 respondents

people emailed regular updates visitors to ECDC’s exhibitions

hours of PRIP members’ time spent with the Design Team over 25 PRIP and Safety Panel meetings and carrying out homework/ research

school children and young people taking part in workshops and programmes

of survey respondents expressed support for the masterplan exhibited in November 2023 to April 2024

hours of the ECDC and Project Team members’ time engaging residents and lesser heard groups over 39 walks and workshops

organised site tours for local residents, groups and stakeholders

Earls Court Project Rooms, ECDC Head Office

► For additional information, refer to the Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) submitted as part of this planning application.

Listening to the Community

2020

Community open day held at Earls Court Project Rooms

Autumn 2021

Stakeholder tours leading to the development of the vision and emerging guiding principles

Spring 2022

Community masterplanning workshops begin

Spring 2023

Consultation on draft masterplan, including exhibition and survey as well as continuing PRIP and community masterplan workshops

Spring 2020

Opinion polling research, interviews with stakeholders and residents survey

Summer 2021

Series of pop-up engagement events and family fun days in the local area

Winter 2021

Emerging vision launched to ‘bring the wonder back’ and four key priorities for the site

Exhibition held a survey on the priorities for the masterplan framework and workshops with young people, those with disabilities and older people

Summer 2022

Consultation on Framework Principles, exhibited at Conversation Corner

First meeting of the Public Realm Inclusivity Panel (PRIP)

Street stalls and pop-ups across the wider area and multiple community workshops with local residents and businesses

Spring 2024

Outlining proposals on detailed Phase 1 building designs and inviting feedback on the approach to design coding

Continued PRIP, masterplan and area-based workshops with the local community

Winter 2023

Consultation on updated masterplan in response to feedback and inviting feedback on the Character Areas and initial Phase 1 design proposals

PRIP sub-group focusing on safety

Series of area based workshops with nearby neighbours

Doorstep engagement with neighbouring residents

Summer

1.6 Inclusive Design

A key initiative has been working in more depth through community workshops and stakeholder engagement to discuss a wider range of topics. This has involved putting people at the heart of the design process, celebrating and incorporating diversity and difference. The masterplan reflects the needs of different groups including older people, children, those with disabilities and carers.

This has included dedicated outreach to those whose voices are less often heard. Out of workshops with young people, older people and those with disabilities, the Public Realm Inclusivity Panel (PRIP) was established. This group of 15 people of varying backgrounds and abilities from the local area aged 15-80 has, and is continuing to play a key role in shaping the accessible, inclusive and ambitious proposals for the public spaces within the masterplan.

The PRIP has played a pivotal role in amplifying the voices of people typically excluded from the decision making process of development projects.

In its first 16 months, the panel served as a critical friend, contributing to the public realm design brief and reviewing the draft design proposals. As the panel members developed the skills to understand and engage with the complexity and the challenges of a masterplan, as well as the planning process, their work became more detailed.

Between November 2023 and June 2024, they worked in a more advisory capacity, reviewing and providing input on the Design Code for access and movement, street furniture, lighting, signage, materiality, and design and management elements around safety.

The work of the PRIP continues and ECDC is committed to working with the group through future detail design phases of the development.

“I wasn’t expecting to be listened to as much as we are, but I’ve seen how the things we’ve discussed on the panel have been considered and implemented into the design plans which is amazing.”

Niamh Faleye PRIP member

“I cannot overstate just how good the process has been and it is all down to the innovative and inclusive ways in which the sessions are being run; well done all.”

Floyd Wilson PRIP member

“Having PRIP members in mind when making the case for inclusive design has been really impactful. It gives a face to the people we are designing for and a clear sense of purpose when we are weighing up design decisions.”

Laurence Neal, Design Manager The Earls Court Development Company

“The PRIP has enabled me to understand different concerns and issues with the way in which people use and experience streets than would be the case had we just been working with a group of built environment professionals.”

Justin Sherlock, Technical Director WSP

Photographs of the Public Realm Inclusivity Panel on Site and in workshops

1.7 Design Team

LBHF Detailed Component team

Three award winning architectural practices were selected to lead on the LBHF Detailed Component of the masterplan.

The team comprises Sheppard Robson, Serie Architects, and dRMM. Sheppard Robson is the lead designer, combining the three individual plots: Plot WB03 designed by Serie Architects, Plot WB04 designed by Sheppard Robson, and Plot WB05 designed by dRMM. Together with landscape architects LDA Design and the wider consultant team, the team have evolved designs from the original masterplan ideas for the Detailed Component, to the designs presented in this document.

The LBHF Detailed Component Design Team consists of a broad team of specialist consultants, who have worked closely with the masterplan and client teams to develop the design proposals.

Throughout the evolution of the designs, members of the design and consultant team have actively participated in the consultation and engagement process alongside ECDC. They have staffed public engagement events, attended workshops and have been present at the Conversation Corner drop-in space, allowing local residents the opportunity to engage with the Design Team, and give their views and suggestions directly.

Access Consultant

David Bonnet Associates

Acoustic Consultant

Sandy Brown

Building Control Advisor

Socotec

Civil and Structural Engineering

Walsh

Cost Management

T&T Alinea

Daylight and Sunlight Consultant

Gordon Ingram Associates

Environmental Impact Assessment

Ramboll

Fire Consultant

OFR

Façade Engineering

Eckersley O’Callaghan

Heritage Consultant

Montagu Evans

MEP Engineer, Vertical Transport & Sustainability Consultant

Hoare Lea

Project Manager

Cast

Principal Designer

Gardiner & Theobald

Real Estate Consultants

JLL

Knight Frank

Visualisation & Verified Views

Cityscape

Townscape Consultant

Tavernor

Transport & Waste Management

WSP

Wind Assessment

RWDI

Designer &

Lead Architect

1.8 The Planning Applications

Two Hybrid Planning Applications

Whilst the masterplan has been developed for the Site as a whole, the administrative boundaries of the two local authorities bisect the Site. Separate Hybrid Applications are therefore submitted to each borough (in duplicate) and form the planning applications.

The LBHF Hybrid Application is formed of detailed development proposals in respect of plots WB03, WB04 and WB05 for which no matters are reserved (“LBHF Detailed Component”), and outline development proposals for the remainder of the Site, with all matters reserved (“LBHF Outline Component”).

The LBHF Detailed Component and LBHF Outline Component together are referred to as the “LBHF Proposed Development”.

The RBKC Hybrid Application is formed of detailed development proposals in respect of plots EC05 and EC06 for which no matters are reserved (“RBKC Detailed Component”), and outline development proposals for the remainder of the RBKC Site, with all matters reserved (“RBKC Outline Component”). The RBKC Detailed Component and RBKC Outline Component together are referred to as the “RBKC Proposed Development”.

The Proposed Development is currently anticipated to be delivered in a number of phases over an estimated programme of approximately 19 years to completion. It is currently envisaged that WB03, WB04 and WBO5 would be delivered as a single phase.

No significant delay is anticipated between the phases. However, realising vacant possession of the Lillie Bridge Depot is complex, whilst an indicative programme has been agreed with London Underground Limited (LUL), it is subject to ongoing review, detailed preparation, and additional consents. It may change and could delay vacant possession beyond the timescales currently anticipated.

Due to the above, the Hybrid Planning Applications consider and assess two different scenarios. These are:

1. All Phases: comprising the entirety of the Proposed Development. This is currently anticipated for completion by 2043.

2. Early Phases: Phases 1-4 (the ‘Early Phases’) are completed, but the Depot remains operational and is delivered to a different programme from that currently anticipated in the All Phases scenario.

This Design and Access Statement sets out the constituent parts of the LBHF Detailed Component.

► For more information on the structure of the planning applications refer to the Planning Statement (EC.PA.04).

► For more information on phasing refer to the Design and Access Statement Volume 1: Outline Component / Phasing and Delivery (EC.PA.08).

Total area of 18 hectares, of which 10 hectares are in LBHF and 8 hectares in RBKC.

Hybrid Application Site boundary Borough boundary Outline Component

A RBKC Detailed Component (Plots EC05/06)

B

Detailed Component (Plots WB03/04/05) Development Zones

and

Extent of Outline

Detailed Components

London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham (LBHF)

Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC)

LBHF

1.8 The Planning Applications

Structure of the application

The planning submissions are Hybrid Applications, meaning they contain both a Detailed Component and an Outline Component.

This is a standard approach for a masterplan of this scale—combining a comprehensive framework for development with a significant proportion of the Proposed Development as a fully detailed application. This approach secures both a sitewide long-term vision and early detailed delivery on-site.

In addition to this Design and Access Statement (DAS) for the LBHF Detailed Component, separate DAS documents have been prepared for the Outline Component and the RBKC Detailed Component.

► For more information on how the read the application material refer to the Application User Guide (EC.PA.05).

► For more information on the structure of the planning applications refer to the Planning Statement (EC.PA.04).

► For more information on the Outline Component refer to the Design and Access Statement Volume 1 (EC.PA.08).

► For more information on the RBKC Detailed Component refer to the Design and Access Statement: EC05 and EC06 (EC.RBKC.02).

Outline Component

Outline proposals cover the extent of the Earls Court Site, excluding the Detailed Component. The Outline Component sets a robust Strategic Framework for development, but leaves room for flexibility so as not to overly constrain the delivery of future Development Plots. The Outline Component reserves all matters for future planning submissions known as applications for Reserved Matters Approval (RMAs).

Detailed Component

In contrast, the Detailed Components provide design certainty through detailed drawings that comply with the overarching principles established by the Control Documents. This has the added benefit of showcasing how the principles laid out in the Control Documents can be delivered successfully.

For approval (the Control Documents)* For approval For information For information

DRAWINGS Design and Access Statement Vol. 1

Design and Access Statement Vol.2 and Vol.3

*Future RMAs will need to demonstrate compliance with the Control Documents.

Flowchart showing the structure of the Hybrid Planning Applications

1.8 The Planning Applications

This Design and Access Statement (DAS) explains the design evolution behind the LBHF Detailed Component of the application.

The purpose of this DAS is to describe the careful design development in response to the masterplan strategies and ambition. It also demonstrates that the design-led approach has been adopted, the London Plan Design policies are satisfied and Sustainable Development and Good Growth are achieved.

This DAS should be read in conjunction with the Detailed Component planning documents for WB03, WB04, and WB05, and the Outline component documents, which includes the Design and Access Statement, Design Code and Parameter Plans.

The DAS is arranged into the following chapters which cover assessment, process, explanation and description of the proposals as follows:

Chapter 1: Introduction

Chapter 2: A Vision

for Earls Court

Chapter 3: Site Context and Analysis

Chapter 4: Design Evolution and Engagement

Chapter 5: Strategic Design Response

Chapter 6: Plot Proposals

Chapter 7: Technical Strategies

Chapter 8: Conclusion

Chapter 9: Appendices

Explains the context and purpose of the planning application, the role of the DAS, and presents the team behind the application.

Explains the vision for the Earls Court Site, establishing the opportunity, the core priorities and placemaking principles.

Assesses the attributes of the physical, social, economic and site context which have guided the design proposals.

Describes the development journey of the masterplan and the collaborative process undergone through consultation at various stages. It also captures the iterative design process for the individual plots.

Explains how the Detailed Component principles have been informed by the strategic context and masterplan framework.

Describes and illustrates plot-specific design proposals in response to the masterplan Character Areas. Detailed design responses are provided for each of WB03, WB04, WB05 and the landscape proposals.

Provides technical supporting material, expanding on themes such as movement and access, fire safety and overheating.

Summarises the design process, placemaking approaches and the design proposals set out through this document.

Offers additional information including accommodation schedules, residential plan layouts and Urban Greening Factor.

1.9 Planning Policy Framework | National

Achieving sustainable development

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (most recently updated in 2023) establishes the government’s planning policies for England.

The National Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) is an extensive online resource of detailed policy guidance provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Along with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), the PPG sets out how the government envisages the day to day working of the planning system in England to operate.

At the heart of the NPPF is the presumption in favour of sustainable development, achieved through meeting the three ‘overarching aims’ set out in paragraph 8 of the NPPF.

• An economic objective – to help build a strong, responsive and competitive economy, by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places and at the right time to support growth, innovation and improved productivity; and by identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure.

• A social objective – to support strong, vibrant and healthy communities, by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations; and by fostering welldesigned, beautiful and safe places, with accessible services and open spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communities’ health, social and cultural well-being.

• An environmental objective – to protect and enhance our natural, built and historic environment; including making effective use of land, improving biodiversity, using natural resources prudently, minimising waste and pollution, and mitigating and adapting to climate change, including moving to a low carbon economy.

National Planning Policy Framework - Key sections

Section 2

Paragraph 10

Section 5

(Delivering a sufficient supply of homes)

Section 6

(Building a strong, competitive economy)

Section 8

(Promoting healthy and safe communities)

Section 11

(Making effective use of land)

At the heart of the Framework is a presumption in favour of sustainable development which means ‘approving development proposals that accord with an up-to-date development plan without delay’.

Sets out the objective of “significantly boosting the supply of homes”, including different sizes, types and tenures for different groups including those requiring affordable housing.

Supports economic growth through the investment, expansion and adaptation of businesses.

Planning policies and decisions should aim to achieve healthy, inclusive and safe places and beautiful buildings.

Requires decisions to promote an effective use of land in meeting the need for homes and other uses, while safeguarding and improving the environment and ensuring safe and healthy living conditions. Paragraph 123 requires as much use as possible of previously-developed or ‘brownfield’ land.

Section 12

(Achieving well-designed and beautiful places)

Section 16 (Conserving and enhancing the historic environment)

Sets out that the creation of high quality, beautiful and sustainable buildings and places is fundamental to what the planning and development process should achieve.

Where a development proposal will lead to less than substantial harm to the significance of a designated heritage asset, this harm should be weighed against the public benefits of the proposal including, where appropriate, securing its optimum viable use.

1.9 Planning Policy Framework | Regional

Delivering ‘Good Growth’

The London Plan 2021 is the Spatial Development Strategy for Greater London. It sets out a framework for how London will develop over the next 20-25 years and the Mayor’s vision for Good Growth.

The London Plan defines good growth as ‘growth that is socially and economically inclusive and environmentally sustainable’ which ‘underpins the whole of the London Plan and each policy.’ Furthermore it ‘is the way in which sustainable development in London is to be achieved’.

The London Plan’s ‘Chapter 1: Planning London’s Future - Good Growth’ objectives are set out in the following policies:

Key Policies that have informed the proposals are:

Policy GG2 – sets out that to create successful sustainable mixed-use places that make the best use of land, those involved in planning and development must apply a design–led approach to determine the optimum development capacity of sites.

The Site is located within the wider Earl’s Court and West Kensington Opportunity Area. Policy GG2 requires that those involved in planning and development must enable the development of brownfield land, particularly in Opportunity Areas.

Policy GG4 – states that to create a housing market that works better for all Londoners, those involved in planning and development must (Part A) ensure that more homes are delivered.

Policy GG5 – sets out that to conserve and enhance London’s global economic competitiveness and ensure economic success is shared amongst all Londoners, those involved in planning and development must (Part B) seek to ensure that London’s economy diversifies and that the benefits of economic success are shared more equitably across London and (Part C) plan for sufficient employment and industrial space in the right locations to support economic development and regeneration.

1.9 Planning Policy Framework | Regional

Design, characterisation and growth

Chapter 3 (Design) of the London Plan sets out how Good Growth is delivered through good design.

Policy D1 (London’s form, character and capacity for growth) sets out:

• The importance of understanding the characteristics, qualities and value of different places within the plan area to develop an understanding of different areas’ capacity for growth.

Policy D2 (Infrastructure requirements for sustainable densities) sets out that the density of development proposals should:

• Consider, and be linked to, the provision of future planned levels of infrastructure rather than existing levels.

• Be proportionate to the site’s connectivity and accessibility by walking, cycling, and public transport to jobs and services (including both PTAL and access to local services).

Policy D3 (Optimising site capacity through the design-led approach) sets out that:

• Development must make the best use of land by following a design-led approach that optimises the capacity of sites, including sites within Opportunity Areas and subject to site allocations, such as at Earl’s Court.

• Higher density developments should generally be promoted in locations that are well connected to jobs, services, infrastructure and amenities by public transport, walking and cycling.

• Requires consideration of design options to determine the most appropriate form of development that responds to a site’s context and capacity for growth, and existing and planned supporting infrastructure capacity.

Policy D4 (Delivering good design) sets out that:

• Masterplans and Design Codes can be used to help bring forward development and ensure it delivers high quality design and place-making. It requires Design and Access Statements to be submitted with development proposals to demonstrate that the proposal meets the design requirements of the London Plan.

Policy D5 (Inclusive design) sets out that:

• Development proposals should achieve the highest standards of accessible and inclusive design.

The GLA’s Characterisation and Growth Strategy, London Plan Guidance (LPG) was adopted in June 2023. This guidance supports the objectives identified in Policy D1 and sets out the first step to a character-based, design-led approach to planning for development, and managing how a place changes over time.

The LPG sets out requirements for assessing an area’s characteristics and the steps for using this information to establish the capacity for growth to ensure sites are developed to an optimum capacity that is responsive to its context and infrastructure.

Stage one: Character survey and analysis

Stage two: Character evaluation

This involves the collation and analysis of character elements listed in Policy D1, part A, through engagement with local communities. This information and data should be used to identify and define the character types, Character Areas and tall building definitions within the plan area.

This involves the evaluation and appraisal of local character to understand its sensitivity to change.

Stage three: Growth strategy

In consultation with local communities, and through the evaluation of character at stage two, the level of change and capacity for growth should be determined for different areas. Area-wide design visions, policies and codes should be developed, and locations identified where tall buildings may be appropriate.

1.9 Planning Policy Framework | Regional

The ‘Design-led approach’

Good Growth across London requires development to optimise site capacity, rather than maximising density’ (Optimising Site Capacity: a Design-led Approach LPG 2023).

• London Plan Policy D3 sets out that `All development must make the best use of land by following a design-led approach that optimises the capacity of sites, including site allocations’.

• The Optimising Site Capacity: A Design-led Approach LPG was adopted in 2023. This sets out how the design-led approach, set out in Policy D3 of the London Plan, should be used to determine the most appropriate form of development on a site.

• ‘This means responding to the existing character and distinctiveness of the surrounding context and balancing the capacity for growth, need for increased housing supply, and key factors such as access by walking, cycling and public transport, alongside an improved quality of life for Londoners’ (Optimising Site Capacity: A Design-Led Approach LPG).

• Optimising Site Capacity: A Design-Led Approach LPG sets out the five stages that form the design-led approach.

This Design and Access Statement sets out that the Earls Court Development has been informed by the design-led approach ‘Stages of Assessment’ identified by the LPG. Five stages to the

Stage 1: Site analysis

A site’s design must be based on the findings of a thorough site analysis and an area’s characterisation assessment and growth strategy (see the Characterisation and Growth Strategy LPG), This should be used to inform the site design vision.

Stage 2: Design vision

Stage 3: Draft site-based design parameters

The design of a site should be based on a clear, site-specific design vision for how the site will be developed. This should be developed in collaboration with local communities, and accord with the areawide vision and design aspirations.

The five stages to the design-led approach

Stage 1: Site analysis

• Chapter 3 provides an analysis of the Site and its surrounding context. It reflects findings from boroughwide characterisation assessments, as well as a more detailed analysis of the Site’s opportunities and constraints.

• Chapter 3 analysis sets out the`Capacity for Growth’ at the Site and has informed the Earls Court Development vision, including the proposed approach to scale and character.

Stage 2: Design vision

• Chapter 2 sets out the ECDC vision, which has been informed by the Site analysis set out in Chapter 3.

Stage 4: Testing site capacity

A draft layout and set of draft parameters should be produced for the site, reflecting the design vision. This should be based on good design principles and analysis completed during stage one.

• Chapter 4 identifies the extensive community and stakeholder engagement, collaboration and design evolution undertaken to refine and ensure the appropriateness of the vision.

Stage 3: Draft site-based design parameters

A site’s indicative site capacity must be based on the draft layout and parameters developed in Stage 3. An indicative site capacity calculator has been included to assist in this process (although alternatives can be used).

Stage 5: Finalise site-based design code

Once a final site layout has been determined, the site-based design parameters should be finalised. When undertaken by the local authority, these should be detailed in the Local Plan documents and become a site’s high-level Design Code, which should be used to assess future planning applications.

• Chapter 4 and 5 set out the design evolution of the proposals, framing principles that both reflect the vision and can provide the framework to bring it to life.

Stage 4: Testing site capacity

• Chapter 4 sets out the rigorous testing of the Site’s capacity, including 3D modelling that has been undertaken based on the draft layout and parameters developed in Stage 3.

Stage 5: Finalise site-based Design Code

• Chapters 5 and 6 sets out the Strategic Framework and Detailed Component proposals that comply with the now finalised sitewide based Control Documents.

1.9 Planning Policy Framework | Local

Meeting local need in LBHF and RBKC

The Development Plans identify the Site’s potential to contribute a strategic quantum of homes and jobs for London.

LBHF Local Plan 2018

The LBHF Local Plan identifies the wider Earl’s Court and West Kensington Opportunity Area (which the Site forms part of) as having the ability to deliver:

• 6,500 homes.

• 5,000 jobs.

• A rich mix of land uses, including housing, employment, hotels, leisure and associated facilities, retail and cultural facilities.

• Social, physical, environmental and transport infrastructure to support the needs of the area as a whole.

• Green corridors and public open spaces, including a centrally located local park of at least two hectares.

• Strategic Policy FRA (Fulham Regeneration Area) includes the Site and notes that ‘There is a substantial opportunity for regeneration within the Fulham Regeneration Area (FRA) and for the development of strategic sites to benefit the wider community’. The wider Regeneration Area is identified to deliver 7,000 additional homes and 9,000 new jobs.

• Local Plan Policy H01 (Housing Supply) sets out that the council will work with partner organisations and landowners to exceed the London Plan housing targets.

• Local Plan Policy H04 (Housing quality and density) states ‘the council will expect all housing development to respect the local setting and context, provide a high quality residential environment, be well designed internally and externally, be energy efficient and (subject to the size of scheme) provide a good range of housing types and sizes’.

• The Policy goes on to note in respect of housing density that ‘High density housing with limited car parking can help ensure housing output is optimised and may be appropriate in locations with high levels of public transport accessibility (PTAL 4-6) provided it is compatible with the local context and the principles of good design and is satisfactory in all other respects. Acceptable housing density will be dependent primarily on an assessment of these factors, taking account of London Plan policies and subject to public transport and highway impact and capacity’.

• Local Plan Policy H09 (Student Accommodation) notes that ‘The council recognises the London-wide need for student accommodation, and to assist in meeting this need it will support applications for student accommodation as part of mixed use development schemes within the White City and Earls Court and West Kensington Opportunity Areas’.

• Local Plan Policy DC1 (Built Environment) requires ‘All development within the borough, should create a high quality urban environment that respects and enhances its townscape context and heritage assets. There should be an approach to accessible and inclusive urban design that demonstrates how good design, quality public realm, landscaping, heritage assets and land use can be integrated to help regenerate places’.

LBHF Planning Supplementary Guidance 2018

The Planning Guidance Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) was adopted on 28th February 2018. This SPD supports the policies of the Local Plan by providing more information and guidance to supplement policies.

► For more information on local planning policy in relation to the Site refer to the Planning Statement (EC.PA.04).

1.9 Planning Policy Framework | Local

Plan-led approach to tall buildings

As set out in the London Plan (Policy D9), tall buildings can form part of a plan-led approach to facilitating development opportunities and managing future growth, contributing to new homes and economic growth.

Earl’s Court and West Kensington Opportunity Area

Other Opportunity Areas (adopted boundaries)

Emerging Opportunity Area boundaries

Opportunity Area boundary yet to be defined

RBKC and LBHF boroughs

of London Opportunity Areas

This particularly includes the following:

• Tall buildings can make optimal use of the capacity of sites that are well-connected by public transport and have good access to services and amenities.

• Tall buildings can help people navigate through the city by providing reference points and emphasising the hierarchy of a place such as its main centres of activity, and important street junctions and transport interchanges.

• Tall buildings that are of exemplary architectural quality, in the right place, can make a positive contribution to London’s cityscape, and many tall buildings have become a valued part of London’s identity.

The London Plan sets out that ‘Tall buildings are generally those that are substantially taller than their surroundings and cause a significant change to the skyline. Boroughs should define what is a ‘tall building’ for specific localities, however this definition should not be less than 6 storeys or 18 metres measured from ground to the floor level of the uppermost storey (The GLA threshold for referral under the Mayor of London Act 2028 is 30 metres). The LBHF Tall Buildings Background Paper (2016) sets out that tall buildings are ‘those that are substantially taller than their neighbours and/or which significantly change the skyline’. The RBKC NLPR confirms that a tall building is defined as 30 metres or more at the subject Site.

London Plan Policy D9 (Part B – Locations) sets out that:

1) Boroughs should determine if there are locations where tall buildings may be an appropriate form of development, subject to meeting the other requirements of the Plan. This process should include engagement with neighbouring boroughs that may be affected by tall building developments in identified locations.

2) Any such locations and appropriate tall building heights should be identified on maps in Development Plans.

3) Tall buildings should only be developed in locations that are identified as suitable in Development Plans.

Both the existing and emerging Development Plans for the Site (LBHF Local Plan Policy DC3 and RBKC NLPR Policies CD7 and SA2) set out that the principle of tall buildings in this location are acceptable.

This Design and Access Statement will demonstrate, in respect of the approach to tall buildings, that the Earls Court Development has adopted the design-led approach as required by London Plan Policy D3, the Optimising Site Capacity LPG (2023) and is informed by the Characterisation and Growth LPG (2023).

Suitable locations for tall buildings identified in the RBKC New Local Plan Review (identifying SA2 Earls Court Exhibition Centre Site allocation as a suitable location)

Fulham Regeneration Area identified in the LBHF Local Plan

Map

1.10 LBHF Detailed Component

Overview

LBHF Detailed Component (Plots

WB03, WB04, WB05)

The first detailed plots in LBHF have been selected to be delivered as part of Phase 1 of the masterplan. They will provide a rich mix of housing tenures and Ground Floor uses, activating the western edge of the Table Park along Empress Place Boulevard and southern edge of Aisgill Gardens.

The buildings will help establish the overall design quality set out in the Outline Control Documents whilst providing detailed design rationale for the tallest landmark buildings in the Earls Court Development.

The three detailed plots (WB03, WB04, and WB05) form a cluster of four buildings with residential amenities, retail, food and beverage and community spaces on the lower levels. All are carefully designed to respond to the different Character Areas of the Illustrative Masterplan. The podium gardens, roofs, terraces, and the WB05 courtyard together create a continuously inhabited landscape that visually extends into the buildings.

2 The Vision for Earls Court

2.1 A Global Legacy

For 150 years Earls Court has been known as a global showcase for innovation, entertainment and excitement. A place known for wonder. A source of entertainment, employment and excitement, the Earls Court Exhibition Centres were alive with activity.

It started when a cabbage patch was transformed into the America Fair, a grand exhibition that brought the Wild West to West London. In the following decades the Exhibition Centres welcomed thousands to global exhibitions and fairs, held seminal rock concerts and global events, and twice played host to events for the Olympic Games.

2.2 How the Vision Has Developed

The vision has been informed by the requirements of the Planning Policy Framework, alongside a detailed character assessment and growth strategy for the Site, following the approach set out by the Characterisation and Growth LPG (2023) and as demonstrated in Chapter 3 of this DAS.

Through early engagement, an understanding of what the Earls Court Site and its history meant to people was established. The days of Buffalo Bill and the Great Wheel at the World Fair Exhibitions, and Pink Floyd at the Exhibition Centres have passed but the legacy and memories of those times live on.

Through a series of collaborative workshops with local residents, community organisations and amenity groups, alongside round-tables with arts, cultural and stakeholder groups—hundreds of people have shared their stories, recollections of the past, thoughts of the present and hopes for the future.

Photographs from masterplan workshops

2.2 How the Vision Has Developed

The overwhelming feedback was clear — that Earls Court had been a place of excitement, spontaneity and diversity. The myriad of shows and concerts at the Exhibition Centres brought a buzz to the area that is greatly missed. As important were the skills and training opportunities and the economic impact which the Exhibition Centres had on the local area.

For younger people, for whom the Exhibition Centres had not been part of their past, the conversations focused on what the Site could become in future.

One word came up again and again – wonder.

Community listening: Wonder emerges Responses gathered during the February and March 2022 masterplan workshops. Words have been scaled to be indicative of the level of importance given at the events.

2.3 The Vision:

To Bring the Wonder

Reinstating the wonder Earls Court was known for will reflect its rich cultural heritage and the sense of excitement which so many experienced.

The vision to bring the wonder back is based on four priorities which emerged through early public consultation during 2021. These set out the ambition and helped shape the emerging masterplan approach.

2.4 The Four Place Pillars of Earls Court

Setting the standard for future urban development, Earls Court will re-emerge as London’s place to discover wonder.

During consultation, the question ‘why would you come here’ was repeatedly asked. This led to the evolution of four place pillars which will create the identity for Earls Court. These formed a core part of the consultation material since early 2023 and underpin a unique proposition for the future development.

The vision evolved into a masterplan based around four place pillars:

Nature

A celebration of nature and its ability to connect and revive

Culture

A cultural ecosystem for the future of talent

showcase for climate and clean innovation and skills

An inspiring neighbourhood designed for all stages of life

2.4 The Four Place Pillars of Earls Court

A celebration of nature’s ability to connect and revive

Nature presents untold benefits to the health and wellbeing of ourselves and our planet. Amplifying its presence and fostering better connections with nature is our golden thread - creating diverse and generous spaces to play, meet, relax and for sanctuary, whatever the season.

c. 20 acres of public realm and green space for all to enjoy

Over 1,000 new trees will be planted throughout the Site

Connecting biodiversity east-west and north-south for planting and wildlife

c. 2.75 acres of new play space for all ages

Climate resilient planting for all seasons in landscapes and buildings

Reusing water to irrigate, interact and cool

Accessible landscapes to navigate the 8 metre level change

View of the Cascades linking the Table Park, Empress Place, Aisgill Gardens and Lillie Sidings

2.4 The Four Place Pillars of Earls Court

A showcase for climate and clean innovation and skills

A new destination offering the scale, location and connectivity to create a home for a green economy, accelerating opportunities in a smart campus environment that supports start ups, scale ups and multi nationals to collaborate and tackle humanity’s challenges.

Co-working space enabling start up and scale up businesses A sustainable development improving air quality and water management on the site

2.4 The Four Place Pillars of Earls Court

A cultural ecosystem for the future of talent

Earls Court is synonymous with the power of culture, creativity and performance with a magnificent heritage of spectacle dating back to the 19th Century. The spirit of delight and discovery is re-emerging as the site once again is proudly stitched back into London’s cultural map.

10 acres of outdoor space which can be transformed and used for seasonal events

3 main cultural venues, around which culture and creatives can cluster

2.4 The Four Place Pillars of Earls Court

An inspiring neighbourhood designed for all stages of life.

The future of city living, creating a new urban fabric, a place where people want to visit but also stay and grow, whether to live or work. Reflecting the brilliance of London, Earls Court will be inclusive and accessible, allowing families, communities, businesses and social connections to take root and thrive.

c. 4,000 new homes

Up to 2 childcare facilities

Lively streets with local amenities for residents

Targeting 35% affordable homes across all tenures A new Community Hub and 8,000 sq ft of additional community and healthcare facilities An 850m long active boulevard (the length of Regent Street, from Piccadilly Circus to Oxford Circus)

Homes for sale, for rent, for older people, for students and for post-graduates

c. 100 retail, dining and leisure spaces

Zero carbon, low cost energy for all homes

Lillie Sidings Square will form the heart of the neighbourhood to the north of the development

2.5 LBHF Detailed Component

Detailed Component response to ECDC design principles

The design principles were established to inform the development of the first buildings and ensure delivery on the commitment to design excellence.

The principles ensure that the Design Team are enabled to achieve ECDC’s aim of designing a solution for the site which is a global exemplar of sustainable development. The design principles ensure that the proposals have personality, are accessible and create a blueprint for future generations. The Detailed Component response is set out as follows.

A New West Side Story

To celebrate the heritage of a place that has always embraced the opportunity to be different and made a strategic contribution to the future of this great city through innovation and entertainment; creating a new destination which puts Earls Court confidently back on the map and changes perceptions of West London.

Be Good Ancestors

Constantly thinking beyond today, working collaboratively to leave a better piece of city for existing and future communities, delivering the ambition to create the heritage of the future through exemplary design and sustainability.

An Earls Court for Everyone

The opportunity, privilege and responsibility of designing this new neighbourhood, one with people at its heart. A neighbourhood that brings people together, where they feel welcome, safe and included, a sense that this is truly for everyone.

Beautiful buildings

462 homes and 696 student bedrooms submitted in detail for planning in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham.

A New West Side Story

Destination play for all ages

Integrated and dedicated play spaces will be provided in Aisgill Gardens and in the Table Park for all to enjoy.

Creating West London Streets

Empress Place Boulevard becomes the bustling boulevard with new shops, cafes, restaurants and leisure uses.

2.5 LBHF Detailed Component

Detailed Component response to ECDC design principles

Showcasing biodiversity, water and natural landscape

Using lush and varied planting.

Sustainable materials

Prioritising low embodied carbon materials and construction methods.

Timelessness and longevity

Creating the heritage of the future through exemplary design.

Be Good Ancestors

High quality homes for today and the future

All homes will optimise views and daylight whilst minimising overheating and energy use.

Low cost, low carbon energy network

All buildings will be served by one of the UK’s largest zero operational carbon ambient loops.

2.5 LBHF Detailed Component

Detailed Component response to ECDC design principles

Shops along Empress Place Boulevard

Set within a beautiful environment designed around pedestrians, the boulevard will serve local needs.

Homes for all generations

Delivering homes to rent and buy for every stage of life.

An Earls Court for Everyone

The bustling boulevard

When complete, it will be the length of Regent Street with shops, restaurants, cafes and culture alongside entrances to homes.

A new Community Hub on Aisgill Gardens

Following public feedback, a permanent home will be provided for the existing Community Hub with a cafe, flexible spaces, a grow garden and horticultural kitchen.

The Sustainable Development Charter

ECDC is committed to delivering an exemplar development at Earls Court, a blueprint for future living, creating a resilient masterplan, considering the future, through sustainability and exceptional design. This means delivering innovative buildings and spaces, enhancing the environment, producing economic benefits for the widest number of people, and creating significant social and economic value for the local area. The development aspires to have a positive sustainable impact not just within the Proposed Development but beyond the boundaries of the Site.

The focus on sustainability has run through and informed all aspects of the development proposals and processes. From dayone to in use, across ECDC’s own internal operations to temporary uses, and the way in which the team works with all stakeholders –from suppliers and contractors, to tenants, occupiers, partners and neighbours. These are ECDC’s principles for future living: to be people-centric and planet-conscious.

The Sustainable Development Charter (SDC), ‘Principles for Future Living’ sets out goals and objectives for three focus areas: social value, economic inclusion and environmental wellbeing. The goals underpin the vision and key priorities. Each goal has a clear set of metrics and targets that will allow measurement of performance and support continuous improvement, all with the aim of driving the best sustainable outcomes for all.

The purpose of the Charter is to:

• Show how ECDC intends to build a sustainable Earls Court from temporary activities through development and during occupancy.

• Provide the basis for the way ECDC will measure and report on progress.

• As a result, establish the means to improve performance yearon-year for the good of the Earls Court community.

• Provide a mechanism by which those who live, work, and visit Earls Court can assess the extent to which ECDC has delivered.

It is not intended to be a ‘fixed‘ statement, but a Charter that will adapt and develop over time to suit the shifting programme of the development, and to better suit the changing needs of the communities and stakeholders.

PRINCIPLES FOR FUTURE LIVING

The Sustainable Development Charter, ‘Principles for Future Living’

A Sustainability Charter for Earls Court

2.6 The Sustainable Development Charter

Social Value

The generation of social value is, and will continue to be, a core driver in everything ECDC does. In the context of Earls Court, social value is defined as ‘the importance that people (and society) place on changes to their lives caused by the actions and activities of ECDC.’ The social value created will be measured and reported on a regular basis. This measurement will be governed by the 11 OECD Dimensions of Wellbeing, and the guidelines set out for Social Return on Investment.

Economic Inclusion

ECDC’s mission is to deliver the very highest standards of economic inclusivity, to involve and benefit the widest number of people and local communities in and around Earls Court who are directly and indirectly affected by the project throughout its lifetime. Economic inclusion will be achieved when the widest range of people benefit from the advantages created by the development. This commitment will apply during design and construction as well as in the longer-term; through postoccupation and operation.

Environmental Wellbeing

ECDC’s aim is clear – to ensure impacts are climate positive, to respect and live within collective environmental limits, now and for tomorrow. One of the goals is to go beyond net zero carbon: simply put, to remove more carbon emissions from the atmosphere over the lifetime of the development than are emitted during the design, construction and operation of the scheme.

To ensure this is verifiable, ECDC will measure progress against independent and internationally recognised environmental assessment methodologies to evidence and validate the outcome. For a first step ECDC has signed up to the UN Race to Zero campaign, aligned with Science Based Targets to guide and validate this ambition.

► For more information on the sustainability strategy refer to Sustainability Strategy (EC.PA.21).

► For more information on sustainability within the Illustrative Masterplan refer to Design and Access Statement Volume 1: Outline Component / Spatial Strategies / Sustainability (EC.PA.08).

► For more information on the socials values of the project refer to Social Value Statement (EC.PA.45).

The

follows:

Maximise appropriate economic growth in the local area

Provide access to economic opportunities for all Create an affordable community

3 Site Context and Analysis

3.1 Local Context

West London context

The Earls Court Development needs to respond to the issues of today, celebrating the wonder of the Site’s history whilst leading the way for future change.

This section assesses the Site in the local context under the following themes:

• Evolving density clusters

• The strategic location

• The emerging context

► For more information on the West London context refer to the Design and Access Statement Volume 1 (EC.PA.08).

Earl’s Court station

West Brompton station West Kensington station

Brompton Cemetery

Empress State Building

Lillie Bridge Depot

West Kensington and Gibbs Green Estates

Philbeach Gardens

Eardley Crescent North End Road

West Cromwell Road (A4)

Lillie Square

Seagrave Road

Empress Place

Lillie Road

Holland Park

Hyde Park

White City Olympia Warwick Road

Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC)

London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham (LBHF)

Aerial photo looking north over the Site

3.1 Local Context

Evolving density clusters around London

Development at Earls Court is situated within the broader landscape of new development emerging across London’s Opportunity Areas. The Site does not fall within any strategic views defined by the London View Management Framework (LVMF).

Policy GG2 and Policy D3 of the London Plan encourage the optimisation of Site capacity through a design-led approach, and Policy D9 recognises that tall buildings can form part of a plan-led approach to facilitating regeneration opportunities and managing future growth

The Earls Court Development is a key opportunity to deliver on these aspirations while being informed by a number of comparable schemes that have emerged across the city.

The well-established tall building clusters in the City of London and the area around London Bridge are examples of where buildings have shaped London’s identifiable skyline.

New height clusters, such as those in Vauxhall, Nine Elms, and Battersea, have emerged within the context of low-scale buildings, creating a contrast to the surrounding context, except where they scale down to protect the prominence of Battersea Power Station.

These principles can also be found in West London, with the emergence of high-density, tall building developments adjacent to low-rise residential neighbourhoods at White City and Chelsea Waterfront.

The Earls Court Development can optimise the use of this brownfield Site in line with strategic policies including GG2 and D3 of the London

City of London

Nine Elms

The Earls Court Development Site

View Corridors

Plan.

Earls Court 147m

Chelsea Waterfront

Old Oak and Park Royal

3.1 Local Context

A strategic location in West London

The Earls Court Development Site plays a key role as one of the emerging schemes along the West London Railway Line corridor.

Court Development Site

Olympia Shepherd’s Bush White City

Imperial Wharf

Chelsea Waterfront

Brompton Cemetery

Eel Brook Common

Holland Park

Wormwood Scrubs

Hyde Park

Earls

Local Context

Emerging context

New developments around the Earls Court Development Site demonstrate various approaches to density optimisation in well connected brownfield sites. They establish precedents for the integration of contemporary building typologies within the local area and highlight the range and scale of transformation already under way.

Opportunity Areas and centrally located brownfield sites along the West London Railway Line respond to the GLA’s Good Growth Principles, making best use of available land by delivering sustainable new homes and employment in high-density developments. This forms London’s next wave of growth, introducing contemporary typologies to the local context.

A spine of dense residential development is emerging along the West London Railway Line corridor, characterised by contemporary proposals, each which respond to the scale and character of their local context. These developments present an opportunity for the Earls Court Development Site to be a coherent addition to this growth by optimising density with complementary building typologies which are informed by their immediate context.

2. 100 West Cromwell Road © John McAslan + Partners

1. Olympia redevelopment © Pell Frischmann

3.

3.2 Site History

An exceptional history

The Earls Court Site has always been a unique, complex and fascinating part of London. Throughout history, it has been at the forefront of economic and societal change.

Earls Court has evolved over the centuries as the growth of London expanded to the west.

From rural farmland and horticultural gardens, to the arrival of 19th century railway and underground lines, the Site became a showground for exhibitions, spectacle and innovation.

As the transport network expanded, residential areas developed around the Site. Despite this growth, the Site has been under a single ownership with a unified vision for the last 150 years, which has contributed to the enduring legacy and sense of wonder at Earls Court.

The following pages describe key stages in the evolution of the Site, from the medieval period to the demolition of the Exhibition Centres.

► For more information on the Site history refer to the Design and Access Statement Volume 1 (EC.PA.08).

The Chocolate Confectionery Exhibition at Earls Court Exhibition Centre, c.1950 © Architects’ Journal

3.2 Site History

A cultural pioneer in the context of Imperial Britain

Temporary structures such as the Great Wheel and a manmade lake were erected to host events and showcase some of the most pioneering inventions and achievements of the time. Arenas, grandstands, pleasure gardens, theatres and warehouses established the Site as a destination for discovery and delight.

► For more information on the Site history refer to the Design and Access Statement Volume 1 (EC.PA.08).

Eastern bandstand and façade of the Illinois building at the Chicago Exhibition, c.1893

The man-made lake in front of the Illinois building at the Chicago Exhibition, c.1893

3.2 Site History

The Exhibition Centres 1935-2015

The 20th century Exhibition Centres staged unforgettable events at a global scale and cemented the legacy remembered today.

Following a period of decline in the early 20th century, Earls Court re-emerged as a cultural destination through the construction of the permanent Exhibition Centres. Its reputation as an entertainment and innovation hub grew, attracting visitors from far and wide.

In 1935, following wartime decline, the Earls Court Exhibition Grounds were sold and in 1937, a new state-of-the-art Exhibition Centre was erected, with an ambition to rival the nearby Olympia Exhibition Hall. The architect, Howard C. Crane, maximised the triangular site with the biggest column-free indoor space in Europe. The space occupied over 40,000 sqm of space spread across two levels. Shortly after its opening, the Exhibition Centre hosted the Chocolate and Confectionery Exhibition.

The Exhibition Centre, known as Earls Court One, soon became known as one of London and the UK’s top exhibition venues. A large internal pool, 60m long and 30m wide, with a hydraulicpowered retractable floor, allowed the space to be used in a myriad ways, from boat exhibitions to performances.

Exhibitions showcasing innovation

Earls Court went on to host international exhibitions, showcasing innovations in technology, industry, and the arts. For many years it played host to the British Motor Show, where iconic cars were officially unveiled to the public, as well as the London Boat Show.

The venue became renowned for displaying new products, machinery and services across various industries, showcasing new ways of living and working to Londoners.

The Earls Court Boat Show, 1973. This ran annually from 1960 until 2003, and again in 2007 and 2008

British International Motor Show, which ran from 1937 to 1976

Earls Court Motor Exhibition, c. 1950s

The Ideal Home Show at Earls Court, 2011. The internal pool was used as a feature within this exhibition

A complex, threedimensional puzzle

Existing infrastructure and buildings together with sensitive edge conditions inform the potential development of the current Site.

Brompton Cemetery

Empress State Building

Lillie Bridge Depot

West Kensington and Gibbs Green Estates

Philbeach Gardens

North End Road

Lillie Road

Warwick Road

Aerial view looking south over the Site

Nevern Square

West Cromwell Road (A4)

The Train Shed

The Table structure

Bishops Park

Earl’s Court station

West Brompton station

West Kensington station RBKC LBHF

3.3 Masterplan Site Context

Local Centres

Analysis: The Site sits within walking distance of two vibrant local town centres, Earls Court Road to the east, and North End Road to the southwest.

Opportunity: The masterplan identifies an opportunity to open up new east-west and north-south connections that facilitate access to surrounding local and district centres.

Local town centres and high streets

Local town centres and high streets

Social and Community Infrastructure

Analysis: Analysis suggests the existing provision of schools is adequate in the local area, with more demand for secondary school places. However, there is demand for Early Years Centres.

Opportunity: The masterplan identifies an opportunity to complement the local social infrastructure offer in line with Policy S1 of the London Plan and the Development Plan to meet the needs of new and existing communities.

Retail and Culture

Analysis: North End Road, Fulham Broadway, and Earls Court Road all provide access to local shops, cafes, and restaurants within a short distance. At a wider scale, the site also benefits from links to Hammersmith Town Centre, Shepherd’s Bush, Chelsea, and Kensington High Street.

Opportunity: There is an opportunity to complement the local cultural offer in line with Good Growth objectives and London Plan Policy HC5.

High streets and town centres

Cinemas

Libraries

Archives and societies

Museums and public galleries

Commercial galleries

Music venues

Theatres and dance venues

Cultural venues and retail corridors

Recording studios

Rehearsal (theatre, dance, music)

Office-based music offices

Small music venues

Small theatres/theatre pubs

Set design and props

Creative workspaces

Maker and manufacturing spaces

Outdoor cultural and sports

Built Form in the Local Area

Analysis: Much of the existing Site is surrounded by a fine grain of Victorian housing, with terrace houses and mews forming a distinct streetscape. There are also post-war mid-century housing estates that offer a contrasting character.

Opportunity: Earls Court can reflect the diversity of characters found in the local area.

Historic pre-Victorian buildings

Traditional Victorian terraces

Victorian mansion blocks

Victorian landmark buildings

New developments (post-2000)

Post-war landmark buildings

Typical high street terraces of mixed age and character

Art Deco curved brick buildings

Post-war and low-rise development

Post-war tower typologies

Late 20th century blocks

3.3 Masterplan Site Context

Public Transport

Analysis: The majority of the masterplan Site has a 6a PTAL rating, demonstrating an optimal level of public transport accessibility throughout a large proportion of the development. The LBHF Detailed Component is within the 6a area.

Cycle Infrastructure

Analysis: The TfL-designated cycle route Quietway 15 provides connections to the east. Additional routes, using the Cycle Superhighway (CS8) and the National Cycle Route 4 (NCR4), provide established east-west connections within 15 minutes to the south of the site.

Opportunity: The site can extend, connect, and improve the local pedestrian and cycling networks.

Play Provision

Analysis: The playgrounds at Normand Park and Holland Park are between 10 and 15 minutes away, and facilities nearer the site are smaller and cater to fewer age groups, typically younger children.

Opportunity: The site can supplement the local play offer and bring play closer to nearby communities for all ages.

Opportunity: High connectivity allows site optimisation in line with Good Growth objectives and the London Plan. Playgrounds and sports grounds and pitches

Parks and Open Space

Analysis: Brompton Cemetery, Normand Park, and Holland Park are key parks and open spaces within walking distance of the masterplan site. The West London Railway Line embankments are an important north-south biodiversity corridor.

Opportunity: There is an opportunity to address the shortfall in the diversity of local open space that caters for everyone.

3.3 Ma sterplan Site Context

Below Ground Constraints

The masterplan site is crossed by the District, Piccadilly, and West London Lines. Network Rail and TfL were consulted to determine the constraints of buildings next to their assets. The masterplan development has discussed requirements for offsets, construction logistics, access positions, and loading. These items do not directly affect the LBHF Detailed Component.

Above Ground Constraints

The masterplan site has several sensitive edges. The boundary to the Empress State Building is a sensitive edge to the LBHF Detailed Component, requiring specific security measures (beyond the scope of this application). Site access is limited to a few locations, each with its own constraints. Within the site, there are several access points for TfL and Network Rail that need to be maintained.

Environmental Constraints

The site is subject to noise pollution from the Heathrow flight path. These constraints have been studied as part of the design development, and designs incorporate mitigation measures to reduce the impact of noise. The site is also within the Environment Agency Flood Zone 3. Please see the flood risk assessment for more information

Proximity to neighbouring properties

requiring

Noise and air pollution from A40/West Cromwell Road and railways through Site

path direction

within Environment Agency Flood Zone 3

sources of noise and air pollution Air pollution - areas affected by NO2 levels higher than

Prevailing wind direction and channelling

Existing trees

Environmental considerations

Earl’s Court station

West Brompton station

West Kensington station

Brompton Cemetery

Empress State Building

Lillie Bridge Depot

West Kensington and Gibbs Green Estates

Philbeach Gardens

Eardley Crescent

North End Road

Seagrave Road

Lillie Road

Holland Park

Warwick Road

Hammersmith

Queen’s Club

Earls Court Road

Aerial view looking north over the Site

Plot Context

Built form in the local area

The Site is surrounded by a variety of built form typologies and streetscape characters that reflect the rich architectural tapestry of West London.

The adjacent context includes:

1. A fine grain of Victorian housing that forms the predominant building typology, including traditional homes and elaborate mansion blocks. The closest example is Empress Place, a cohesive collection of late Victorian terraced houses to the south of the plot.

2. Post-war low- and medium-rise residential estates, such as the West Kensington and Gibbs Green Estates to the west.

3. The Empress State Building, a tall building that challenges the typologies and scale of the surrounding area, and establishes the opportunity for height.

4. Art Deco curved brick residential blocks, such as Barons Keep.

Other local characteristics include Georgian townhouses, Victorian sports grounds and events halls.

This diverse mix of styles, periods, and typologies lends a unique quality to the Site’s context and offers many material and built form references informing the proposals.

► Refer to Design and Access Statement Volume 1: Outline Component/ Appendix (EC.PA.08).

West Kensington and Gibbs Green Estates, with Empress State Building in the background

Queens Club Gardens, Victorian mansion blocks.

Barons Keep, art deco housing.

3.4 Plot Context

Local heritage context

The LBHF Detailed Component does not border any conservation areas directly. However, the design needs to be considered in the context of key heritage assets within the surrounding area.

The following heritage considerations are of particular significance:

The Earls Court Development should enhance and utilise the heritage assets and architectural features that contribute towards the local character, in line with Policy D3 and HC1 of the London Plan.

► Refer to Environmental Statement (EC.PA.12).

Nevern Square

Philbeach

Philbeach Earl’s Court Square

Courtfield Earl’s Court Village Brompton Cemetery

Sedlescombe Road Baron’s Court

Edwardes Square/ Scarsdale & Abingdon

Chesson

2. West Kensington Underground station opened in 1874 as part of what is now the District line, the first underground railway line in the world. The station was constructed in the Victorian era and still retains many of its original features.

1. Built in 1886, Olympia Grand is a Grade II Listed Victorian event hall. The space was held under single ownership along with the Earls Court Exhibition Centres.

4. The Queens Club was built in 1886 and was the first multipurpose sports complex in the world.

3. Built in 1873 and designed by Newman and Billing, St. Andrews Church was one of the first substantial buildings in the area, constructed before the urbanisation of its local context.

5. Queens Club Gardens is a block of 33 Victorian Mansions. Built in 1892 and designed by William Gibbs, the complex is centred around two tennis courts and communal gardens.

3.4 Plot Context

Townscape views

A wide range of views have been identified at varying distances and locations around the Site to inform the townscape impacts of the Development.

Townscape views have been selected in consultation with officers and wider stakeholders to assess the visual townscape and heritage impacts of the Development.

The Townscape and Visual Impact Assessment considers the LBHF Detailed Component in the context of the wider masterplan. Many view locations have informed both the evolution of the massing and the refinement of the design.

Some key townscape views that have particularly influenced the massing and layout of the Proposed Development are described on subsequent pages. In order of appearance, these are from Brompton Cemetery (7-8-9), the Queen’s Club (50), Ivatt Place (49), Collingham Place (17), and Penywern Road (29).

The design response to these views is presented in Chapter 5 of this DAS.

► Refer to Environmental Statement (EC.PA.12).

► Refer to Section 4. Design Evolution & Engagement.

The approach to scale and massing at the Site will need to take account of potential

3.4 Plot Context

Key townscape views

Views 07 to 09 Brompton Cemetery

In this dynamic view along the central axis of the Cemetery, the bell tower with its cupola frames the perspective looking north. Development proposals will need to maintain the prominence of the cupola by locating taller elements closer to the Empress State Building and stepping heights down towards the east. Buildings to the east and west of the cupola will appear peripheral to these axial views.

View 50 Queens Club

This view consists of a residential datum that rises to the south with a taller apartment building and the Empress State Building beyond. The spire of St Andrews Fulham Fields Church is prominent in this view and the clear legibility of its spire on the skyline should be preserved.

Cupola of bell tower

Central axis

Empress State Building

Dynamic view of Brompton Cemetery, looking north towards the cupola

Spire of St Andrews Fulham Fields Church is obscured in this image by the temporary tennis structure

Approximate location of St Andrews Fulham Fields Church spire

Empress State Building

View 50 - The Queens Club

3.4 Plot Context

Key townscape views

Mid-range views when approaching the site from east and west

The below is a selection of views from the Site’s surrounding residential streets to the east and the west. They show the Empress State Building rising above the neighbouring built datum, acting as a key building for navigation and wayfinding in the area.

View 49 - Ivatt Place

View 29 - Penywern Road, south pavement

View 17 - Collingham Place

3.4 Plot Context

Key townscape views from the river Thames

The Site’s visibility and townscape contribution were assessed from key access points to LBHF from the south of the river Thames.

View 31 Hammersmith Bridge

View A21 Putney Bridge

with

Development of this scale on Earls Court Site would not impact London View Management Framework views

The London View Management Framework(LMVF) are important views across the capital. These views are defined in the LMVF SPG. In summary, the LMVF views are “…. important views across the capital, from parks and other public spaces that take in important buildings, to urban landscapes that help define London. The London Plan protects these and provides the basis for more detailed guidance on each view.” The Site does not have any strategic viewing corridors crossing it.

The narrow viewing corridor of LVMF View from King Henry’s Mound, Richmond (Assessment Point 9A.1), passes to the south of Earls Court.

At this scale there would be no impact on the skyline of Whitehall Court in the River Prospect from Blackfriars Bridge (Assessment Point 14A.1).

KINGHENRY’SMOUND

In line

London Plan Policy HC4, the Site does not have any strategic viewing corridors crossing it.

Map of LVMF viewing corridors across West and Central London

The Earls Court Development Site

LVMF View Corridors

King Henry’s Mound, Richmond

3.4 Plot Context

The panoramic River Prospect view upstream from Blackfriars Bridge has informed maximum building heights

The panoramic River Prospect view upstream from Blackfriars Bridge at Assessment Point 14A.1 has been used to assess the potential impact of tall development on the Earls Court Site.

The view from this Assessment Point does not include a Protected Vista or a Protected Silhouette that would preclude the visibility of new development in any part of the view. Testing has been undertaken during the design development to establish if the Proposed Development is visible behind Whitehall Court from this view, and be assessed accordingly. 238 Blackfriars Bridge runs in a north south orientation. Designed by Joseph cubitt and h. carr it was opened in 1869 and widened on the west side in 1907-10. It is now the widest river bridge in central London. To the west, buildings in Westminster rise beyond Temple Gardens. To the north and east, the view is becoming dominated by the new development of Blackfriars Thameslink Station and the top of the dome of St Paul’s cathedral is only just visible. To the southwest there are views to the South Bank.

N.B for key to symbols refer to image 1

Panorama from assessment Point 14a.1 Blackfriars Bridge: upstream – at the centre of the bridge

Location of Assessment Point on Blackfriars Bridge, looking west towards the Site

Panorama from Assessment Point 14A.1 Blackfriars Bridge: upstream – at the centre of the bridge

3.5 The Plot Site

The LBHF Detailed Component is located to the southwest of the Earls Court Site, adjoining the north and eastern boundaries of the Empress State Building, west of the Table structure.

The Plot site consists of 9,995sqm of brownfield land. The following elements are examined in greater detail on the subsequent pages:

• Site of the former Earls Court 2 Exhibition Centre, demolished between 2015 and 2017.

• The Table structure spanning the West London Railway Line, with an extensive network of railway infrastructure beneath.

• Lillie Bridge Depot towards the north of the Site, an operational facility used by London Underground Limited.

• Gibbs Green and West Kensington Estates, with a mixture of town-houses and apartment blocks.

• The modernist Empress State Building from the 1960’s.

• Bus Facility, a bus stop and a layover, including staff welfare facilities.

• Empress Place, an existing terraced street perpendicular to Lillie Road shop frontages.

Earl’s Court station

Brompton station

West Kensington station

Site of Earls Court Exhibition Centre Clear Channel Building Lillie Bridge Depot

9 Beaumont Avenue

WB03 WB04 WB05 Empress State Building West Kensington Estates

Site of Earls Court 2 Exhibition Centre

The Table structure

3.5 The Plot Site

LBHF Detailed Component existing site

The LBHF Detailed Component site is located on the former site of Earls Court 2 Exhibition Centre and is now part-vacant and part-activated through temporary uses.

The large structural deck (the ‘Table structure’) over the West London Railway Line remains from the demolition of Exhibition Hall Two in 2015. It is an encapsulated steel structure supporting a concrete slab and sits up to 8m higher than ground level.

The majority of the ground is crushed concrete, which was created and levelled through the demolition process.

Bird-eye view of the north-west side of the site.

Bird-eye view from Earl’s Court station.

View looking north showing the western side of The Table structure.

View looking east showing the Empress State Building.

3.5 The Plot Site

Site sections

3.5 The Plot Site

Empress Place and Lillie Road

In the 1890s, Empress Place was the main entrance to the Exhibition Grounds.

Empress Place features a cohesive collection of late Victorian terraced houses, characterised by stucco façades and decorative elements typical of the period. The southern edge of the masterplan Site comprises 3-4 storey commercial and residential terraced buildings fronting Empress Place and Lillie Road.

To the west of Empress Place is a bus turning and waiting facility accessed from Lillie Road, with a bus layover area and a small standalone structure with welfare facilities for bus drivers.

The south of the masterplan Site is bounded by Lillie Road, a varied street in terms of typology and scale.

The sole access to Empress Place is from Lillie Road (1-2). Lillie Road is a primary connection between Fulham and South Kensington for vehicles and pedestrians. A range of small-scale shops, pubs and hotels line this road. Buildings of various uses and ages have resulted in a diverse streetscape with differing heights and architectural language.

Retail frontage along Lillie Road and into Empress Place View looking east along Lillie Road

3.5 The Plot Site

Boundary conditionsThe Estates

The boundary between West Kensington and Gibbs Green Estates (the Estates) provides an opportunity to stitch the new proposals in with the existing neighbourhood.

The Gibbs Green and West Kensington Estates are located to the north-west and west of the Plot site respectively.

The Estates comprise a mix of typologies, from low-rise townhouses to ten-storey apartment blocks. The houses have pitched roofs, white painted timber front and dark brown brick flanks. The apartment blocks have a repetitive floorplate, flat roofs and predominantly brown brick cladding. A brick wall forms the boundary between western boundary of the masterplan site and the homes to the north of Aisgill Avenue

The Empress State Building borders the West Kensington Estate and the LBHF Detailed Component, with a considerably greater height than the existing residential context.

3.5 The Plot Site

Lillie Bridge Depot, the Community Hub, and the MUGA

To the north of the LBHF Detailed Component site is the Lillie Bridge Depot (1). There is an existing route for a long vehicle to serve this TfL Depot, running through the Plot site. The design discreetly needs to allow for the continued, but infrequent use of the long vehicle access route, the need for which will cease on redevelopment of the Lillie Bridge Depot site.

The Earls Court Community Hub (2), marked in blue, repurposes a former marketing suite. The Community Hub is accessed through a gate in the brick boundary wall on Aisgill Avenue. It hosts a variety of activities for the local residents, including arts and crafts, fitness classes, therapies and social events. The gardens are well-used and facilitate gardening workshops.

There is an existing MUGA on Aisgill Avenue (3). It has an irregular triangular shape and is underutilised by the residents. This gated sports area is located within the Outline Application site. Its eastern boundary is formed by a brick wall. The LBHF Detailed Component site is set back from this sports area, which leaves the opportunity to create a rectilinear sports pitch in the future.

The Earls Court Community Hub Lillie Bridge Depot

Lillie Bridge Depot

Earls Court Community Hub and Grow Gardens The existing MUGA and brick wall

View looking south over the Lillie Bridge Depot

3.5 The Plot Site

The Empress State Building (ESB)

The LBHF Detailed Component western boundary is partly shared with the Empress State Building. The 30-storey ESB dominates the local skyline, providing a marker for navigation. It was completed in 1962 and is named after the Empress Hall, which was formerly located on the site.

In 2003, the ESB was completely renovated and 3 storeys were added, bringing it to its current height and offering views across London. Over the years, the ESB has become its own local landmark in West London.

From 2025, the building will house the new Counter Terrorism Operations Centre. Through consultation with the Mayors Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC), the boundary between the LBHF Detailed Component site and the ESB was agreed to be a walled boundary.

The ESB viewed from Warwick Road

The ESB viewed from the Site

The former Empress Hall, after which the ESB is named. 1937 © Historic England

The ESB viewed from Lillie Bridge Depot.

The Plot Site

Site topography

The existing site levels are consistent with the adjoining levels of West Kensington Estate and Empress Place at ~+4.0m AOD.

The topography to the west of the West London Railway Line, where the Plot site is located, is fairly flat. The site levels vary only slightly between +3.90 and +4.10 AOD and are a continuation of the levels to the southwest of the site.

To the east, the Table structure bridges the West London Railway Line rising to +12.3m AOD, more than 8m above the existing ground level. The railway line creates a drastic level change between the west and east of the masterplan site, allowing the opportunity to propose a new topography.

AOD

AOD

AOD

to +5.0m AOD +5.0m to +6.0m AOD

+6.0m to +7.0m AOD

+7.0m to +8.0m AOD

+8.0m to +9.0m AOD

+9.0m to +10.0m AOD

+10.0m to +11.0m AOD

+11.0m to +12.0m AOD No data

3.6 Plot Site Analysis

Constraints and opportunities

summary

Infrastructure

Rail infrastructure creates significant site constraints across the masterplan Site. The West London Railway Line bisects the Site adjacent to the eastern edge of the Plot site. An access point to Network Rail infrastructure will need to be retained and enabled. In the long term, access will be facilitated through the proposed WB03/04 podium.

Long vehicular access from Lillie Road to the Lillie Bridge Depot (LBD) needs to be provided through the LBHF Detailed Component Service Access Road. The design will allow for the continued, but infrequent, use of the long vehicle access route, the need for which will cease on redevelopment of the LBD site.

Levels

The West London Railway Line, and the Table structure oversailing it, create considerable level changes. The Table structure rises up to +12.3m AOD, whilst the levels at the approach from Empress Place and the approach from Aisgill Avenue are set at +4.0m AOD.

The levels will transition via gentle slopes established in the Illustrative Masterplan, providing a new ground level at +8.0m AOD on Empress Place Boulevard.

Empress State Building shared boundary

Development along the shared boundary with the Empress State Building will be designed in consultation with the Mayor’s Office for Policing and Crime (MOPAC), who own the building.

The area of the Plot alongside this boundary will mainly be used for service access and deliveries at Lower Ground Floor.

LBHF Detailed Component Boundary

Outline Component plots

The Table structure

London Underground / Overground lines

Shared Boundary with the Empress State Building

Network Rail access point

Long vehicle access to Lillie Bridge Depot (LBD) Connection to neighbouring plot

3.6 Plot Site Analysis

Environmental considerations

Existing air quality, noise, sunlight, overshadowing, wind and flood risk conditions have informed the Plot design response.

• The A4 and West London Railway Line are major sources of air pollution. The vacant Site allows the spread of pollution and contributes to dust in the air. There is a significant opportunity to enhance air quality through the orientation of buildings and public spaces.

• The Empress State Building overshadows the Site considerably from late morning onwards. Wind channelling also occurs around the Empress State Building, resulting in higher winds and down draughts in this location.

• The Site partially falls within Environment Agency Flood Zone 3, creating a risk of localised flooding and surface water discharges into the sewer network. An integrated water management strategy based upon surface infiltration will minimise discharge to the sewer network and reduce the risk of localised flooding.

• Due to the surrounding railways, the proximity to the A4 and the Site’s location on the Heathrow flight path, background noise pollution is present throughout. This will be considered in the design of the fabric and services of the buildings, in order to achieve a calm internal environment.

► Refer to Environmental Statement (EC.PA.12)

South-westerly prevailing winds

Wind channelling around ESB

The Table structure

Afternoon shadowing from the ESB

Avoiding single aspect north facing units

3.7 Future Context

Adjacencies to Outline Components

The LBHF Detailed Component is one of the first detailed proposals within the Earls Court Development

The plots within the Outline Components have been arranged to maximise views and daylight. The Table Park and Aisgill Gardens provide notable public open spaces which afford open views and daylight to the WB03, WB04, and WB05 plots.

3.8 Conclusion

The extensive analysis of the Plot context established a clear understanding of the constraints and opportunities. This process has informed the vision for the wider masterplan and the LBHF Detailed Component.

The following objectives were established during this process.

Strategically, to deliver on the ambitions of the London Plan and to contribute to the strategic quantum of homes needed through the LBHF Development proposals. At masterplan level, to open up the brownfield site for the first time in 150 years, reinstating its legacy of wonder, and delivering significant benefits for the local communities.

At site level, to contribute to the local character area by responding to the constraints and opportunities with a strong emphasis on nature and sustainability throughout the design.

• Optimising the use of brownfield land by exploring the potential to intensify its use for additional homes, workspaces, infrastructure and community uses. (London Plan GG2)

• Following design-led approaches to unlock and maximise the Site’s potential through considerate use of scale, connectivity and density. Moreover, the site will embrace the local context and will aim for high sustainability standards. (London Plan D3)

• By adopting a considerate approach to development, all tall buildings on site will take into account key LVMF views, reinforce spatial hierarchy and implement an exemplary standard of architectural quality and materials. (London Plan D9)

• Creating new routes to improve permeability of the site and enhance existing ones.

• Enhancing the landscape and nature within the site.

• Supporting the ambitions of the Masterplan through the provision of a mix of uses.

• Sculpting London’s skyline through the addition of considerate tall buildings.

• Creating a sense of place and enhancing the existing neighbourhood through considerate architecture.

• Responding thoughtfully to character areas, scale and considering the environmental impacts of the proposed buildings in relation to the immediate context, as well as the wider local area.

• Harnessing level changes to deliver a varied public realm.

• Creating engaging frontages along the Plot site boundary.

• Employing good design principles to deliver urban greening and biodiversity.

• Tackling air pollution and flood risk through sustainable building practices.

4 Design Evolution & Engagement

4.1

Masterplan Design Evolution

The journey to the vision

The Illustrative Masterplan and Strategic Framework proposals have evolved in tandem with stakeholder engagement and the refinement of priorities defined for the Site. The vision for Earls Court embeds the aspirations expressed over the course of the design process.

Priorities

Four ‘priorities’ were developed as part of the original Site response, brief, and preliminary consultation.

They helped shape and guide early design studies, and develop an understanding of the opportunity and uniqueness of the place.

Masterplan Guiding Principles

Place Pillars

Vision

Through consultation with the public, Local Authorities, and statutory bodies, ECDC formulated a vision statement, ‘To bring the wonder back to Earls Court’

Eight masterplan ‘guiding principles’ emerged from the engagement process and captured the Design Team’s response to the many conversations and shared aspirations for the site.

Four ‘place pillars’ form the culmination of the engagement and design development process.

8 guiding principles underpin this ambition Fundamental spatial moves and aspirations driving the design process

They underpin the vision and set the ambitions for the place ECDC wants to create.

1. Create an exceptional place that maximises benefits for all 8 guiding principles underpin this ambition

Fundamental spatial moves and aspirations driving the design process

Nature

Fundamental

1. Open up the former Exhibition Centres Site for the first time in 150 years - giving back to local communities.

2. A showground of worldclass ingenuity - celebrating its legacy and history.

A celebration of nature and its ability to connect and revive

2. Amplify nature, our emotional hero, our golden thread 8 guiding principles underpin this ambition

3.

Innovation

A showcase for climate and clean innovation and skills

8 guiding principles underpin this ambition

Fundamental spatial moves and aspirations driving the design process

4. A resilient Strategic Framework that can adapt to

guiding principles underpin this ambition Fundamental spatial moves and aspirations driving the design process

3. Create a better piece of city - a blueprint for future generations.

4. Addressing the climate emergency - an ambition to go beyond net zero.

Culture

A cultural ecosystem for the future of talent

5. The most connected place, open and accessible, helping to make city life more equitable

6. A continued heritage of world-class ingenuity for Earls Court, London and the UK

7. Welcome and surprise, bringing back the Earls Court wonder

8. Creating a sense of place from day one, living our values

Neighbourhood

An inspiring neighbourhood designed for all stages of life

4.1 Masterplan Design Evolution

Overview of design evolution stages

The design evolution of the masterplan can be summarised in three stages. This timeline captures the sequence of design milestones and engagement events that have shaped the evolving proposals.

Stage 1: Framing priorities

Stage 1 was focused on the Site and context analysis, investigating retention, options testing, and the development of the brief. Principles that underpin the project were developed iteratively through engagement events and community masterplanning workshops, as well as through pre-application meetings with the Local Authorities and statutory bodies. These led to the formulation of the vision, masterplan guiding principles, and key priorities for the Site.

Stage 2: Design development

Stage 2 formalised the principles of the masterplan into a concept layout that was shared with the public for the first time in Summer 2022. Engagement continued to feed into the emerging design. The Public Realm Inclusivity Panel was launched, and Conversation Corner opened to help shape the emerging designs. Plot architects were appointed for the Phase 1 detail designs and a more evolved masterplan, including proposed Character Areas, was presented to the public in February 2023.

Stage 3: Finalising the masterplan

In Stage 3, the Character Areas were refined and Plot designs were integrated into the wider Illustrative Masterplan. These were shown again to the public in November 2023, and March 2024. In March 2024 the way in which the designs embedded the Design Principles was clearly set out. More detailed pre-application meetings and regular Design Review Panels took place during this time.

4.1 Masterplan Design Evolution

The journey in numbers

From 2019 to now, ECDC and the Design Team have undertaken an ambitious process of engagement to shape the Earls Court Development. These are some key figures relating to the people, groups and authorities we spoke to.

116

pre-application meetings with LBHF, RBKC, the GLA and TfL

2,562

Design Review Panels, including LBHF, RBKC, and the GLA

76%

of people surveyed said they were ‘happy’ or ‘satisfied’ with the latest version of the masterplan shown days of exhibitions people signed up for email updates on the proposals

young people directly involved in educational programmes 722

Statutory consultees

c. 200 16 + 12 50+

Site tours for members of the public and local groups

2,707

comments received from over 1,518 unique survey respondents

1,917

people visited Conversation Corner and pop-up exhibitions

25

Public Realm Inclusivity Panel and Safety Panel meetings

27

community masterplan and focused resident workshops

4.1 Masterplan Design Evolution

Summary

This chapter demonstrates the extensive design iteration process that has taken place for the LBHF Detailed Component, building upon the work undertaken as part of the masterplan, and responding to public and stakeholder engagement and the requirements of the planning policy framework.

The evolution of the LBHF Detailed Component design has continued to follow the ‘Design-led approach’ outlined in masterplan DAS and as required by the Optimising Site Capacity: A Design-led Approach LPG (2023).

The masterplan design process began in March 2020 and continued up to the planning submission in July 2024. The Detailed Component teams worked alongside the masterplan Design Team from October 2022 and were invited to contribute ideas towards the masterplan design development.

Masterplan stages Engagement stages

Detailed Component stages

4.2 LBHF Detailed Component Design Evolution

Summary

The LBHF Detailed Component team began working with the masterplan team from October 2022 collaborating on designs for the Detailed Plots. Through a period of plot-specific engagement and design development, the LBHF Detailed Component team prepared designs which were presented at the November 2023 and March 2024 public engagement exhibitions, concluding with the planning submission in July 2024.

Pre-application engagement with LBHF and the GLA

Design Review Panel Sessions (LRP/DRP/QRP)

4.3 Detailed Component Stage 0 & 1

Consultation

Public engagement feedback

During Stages 0 - 1, public engagement focused on the masterplan design, with the key activities being consultation exhibitions and workshops for the first conceptual layout for the Site. The Public Realm Inclusivity Panel (PRIP) was also launched.

The LBHF Detailed Component team joined the masterplan Design Team and began working to test the masterplan principles for the plots informed by feedback from on-going consultation.

Consultation on initial Framework

June 2022 - October 2022

The first public consultation exhibition of the Strategic Framework was held in Conversation Corner, initially located in a retail unit on Lillie Road and staffed by ECDC and the Design Team. The exhibition allowed the public to view the emerging conceptual layout and review how priorities from the initial engagement were addressed. ECDC also ran pop-up events to further engage with the community. In June and July 2022, ECDC held 32 events, resulting in 754 conversations and distributing 1,500 copies of exhibition materials to the public.

Community masterplan workshops

June 2022 - December 2022

The workshops focused on specific themes with guest speakers to provoke more in-depth conversations. Community masterplan workshops continued to feed into emerging designs. Key outcomes included:

• Discussion on how the history of the Site could influence a new cultural offering.

• Desire for a refined cultural strategy that evoked wonder and integrated cultural uses.

• A discussion on green space.

• Approach to height clusters.

• Excitement at the prospect of something happening on the Site.

Meetings with groups and societies

Ongoing throughout 2022

ECDC and the Design Team regularly met groups representing local residents such as the Earl’s Court Society, the Fulham Society, the Earl’s Court Area Action Group, the Hammersmith Society and the Kensington Society to share the latest proposals, receive feedback directly and answer questions. These meetings continue and ECDC is committed to engaging with these stakeholders.

Public

Realm Inclusivity Panel (PRIP)

July 2022 onwards | 4 November 2022 | 19 January 2023

Workshops with various local groups in early 2022 highlighted the desire for high-quality public spaces on the Site. ECDC decided to bring these voices together to shape their design.

In July 2022, an open invitation was made for applicants to join the Public Realm Inclusivity Panel (PRIP). This community-led panel includes a diverse group of local people with varied lived experiences, requirements, and support needs.

The PRIP worked closely with the Design Team. The group met monthly and was supported by ZCD Architects. The PRIP co-created the brief and spatial principles for the public realm through collaborative discussion, model-making and design exercises. PRIP panel members expressed the need for a public realm that is:

• An everyday place and an exciting destination.

• Inclusive, fully accessible and works well for people with disabilities, young people, older people and carers.

The Earls Court Community Hub Consultation meeting

24 November 2022

Engagement facilitated by the Community Hub team has informed the design of the new Community Hub. Summary of input received:

• A Community Hall (in Outline) is an important space to allow for a variety of uses.

• Desire for a community cafe.

• Arts and crafts is a popular activity which helps to improve peoples well-being. The current art space is limited.

• Bookable and flexible small rooms are important to sustain a continuous revenue.

Design Team response:

• A community cafe was proposed at the base of WB05.

• A horticultural kitchen was proposed adjacent to the grow gardens to allow for meal preparation and sharing.

• The proposal provided a large art space with views out to the nature.

• The new Community Hub provided smaller rooms with integrated storage to allow for a flexible use of space.

4.3 Detailed Component Stage 0 & 1

Consultation

Planning and stakeholder engagement feedback

The masterplan team continued to engage with both Local Authorities and the GLA. The Detailed Component teams were also introduced to LBHF and the GLA planning officers and focused on conversations about early aspirations for the Detailed Plots.

LBHF Pre-application meetings November 2022 / December 2022

The pre-application meetings continued to focus on the masterplan and discussed the distribution of heights and open spaces and, alongside aspirations for world-class culture and innovation looking at London and European placemaking examples.

This led to the development of the ‘creative boulevard’, which links commercial innovation clusters at Empress Place and West Kensington with a legible north-south route and a continuous active Ground Floor.

LBHF RBKC GLA Plot architect introduction

12 December 2022

An initial meeting with the GLA, RBKC and LBHF planning officers took place to introduce the LBHF Detailed Component architects and provide an overview of early aspirations for the buildings.

GLA Pre-application meeting

11 January 2023

This meeting established broad support for the Illustrative Masterplan landscape-led approach and cultural strategy. The GLA invited further information about the integration of townscape, heritage, and microclimate considerations to substantiate the massing strategy.

Leadership meetings 10 January 2023

The LBHF leadership team reviewed emerging proposals including a blend of London and European-inspired streetscapes, inclusive spaces and exemplary sustainable high rise buildings. The leadership encouraged uses that complement existing innovation clusters in the borough and alignment with LBHF’s Industrial Strategy.

LBHF Detailed Component Preapplication meeting

17 January 2023

This meeting between the LBHF Planning officer team and the LBHF Detailed Component architects reviewed initial thoughts and aspirations for the Detailed Plots.

The initial concept proposal of three pairs of buildings was presented. A podium continued across all the plots at this stage.

Discussions focused on the orientation, massing and arrangement of the buildings as well as the density of the proposal. Following the meeting, the LBHF Detailed Component team contributed to the masterplan density reduction studies.

4.3 Detailed Component Stage 0 & 1

Consultation

Iterative design development: massing

Shortly after being selected, the LBHF Detailed Component Design Team began collaborating with the masterplan Design Team on the design development of the Detailed Plots. Below is a summary of how the designs evolved in response to consultation and engagement feedback.

Initial concept design: Extrusions and pairs

The concept proposed three pairs of buildings with a distinct character according to their location within the Detailed Plots. The proposals presented legible townscape clusters with architectural variety between them. The plans were paired as simple square, pin-wheel triangular and dumb-bell forms. The buildings were extrusions of these plan forms and shared a two-storey podium base. The buildings along Empress Place Boulevard varied in height, ranging from 35 to 45 storeys.

Early Stage 1 design: Stepped form, diagonal orientation

The building plans evolved from simple to more articulated stepped forms. This design enabled a smooth transition between the horizontality of the base and the verticality of the taller elements, resulting in memorable stepped silhouettes. Green amenity was provided in terraces at each of the massing steps.

The heights of the four buildings facing Empress Place Boulevard were reduced to between 30 and 35 storeys.

Evolving Stage 1 design: Orthogonal orientation

Ongoing discussions with the public, the boroughs and the GLA led the Masterplan and LBHF Detailed Component teams to revisit the building massing and heights. For the LBHF Detailed Component this led to:

• A reduction from five to four buildings providing more daylight to the public realm.

• Introduction of a greater variety of building height, and a single distinct landmark 42-storey building.

• The rotation of the buildings to face directly onto Empress Place Boulevard creating a defined street edge.

Detailed Component Stage 0 & 1

Consultation

Iterative design development: streetscape

In response to consultation, the Illustrative Masterplan defined Empress Place Boulevard as a new London Street, with the podium of WB03 and WB04 and the edge of the Table providing frontages along both sides.

As part of the evolution of the varied streetscape of Empress Place Boulevard, the LBHF Detailed Component Design Team explored:

• The character and feel of Empress Place Boulevard.

• The street frontages, activation and relationship to the edge of the Table.

• The relationship between the podium and the buildings above.

• Options for addressing the level change between Table Park and Empress Place Boulevard.

Exploration of podium and Table Park edge expression

Exploration of the Empress Place Boulevard character

Exploration of podium and Table Park edge expression

Exploration of the rotated buildings and Table Park edge expression

Exploration of the relationship of the Table Park to Empress Place Boulevard

A courtyard option within the WB03 / WB04 podium

1. Buildings landing onto the ground with pocket spaces between.

2. Exploring relief spaces in landscapecourtyards or greenery cascading down from Table Park.

3. Two-sided street edge formed, and single podium expression with buildings landing on top.

4.4 Detailed Component Stage 2 & 2a Consultation

Public engagement feedback

Consultation on draft Illustrative Masterplan and Strategic Framework

February - March 2023

The emerging Illustrative Masterplan was shown in more detail within a larger Conversation Corner exhibition space created at the former Metropolitan Police Heritage Centre on Lillie Road. Feedback included:

• With 70% stating they were ‘happy’ or ‘satisfied’ with the principles of the masterplan.

• Many were glad to see progress on the Site.

• Prioritising provision of open green spaces and acknowledgment the local area lacks publicly accessible green space.

• Desire for high quality design with general support for emerging proposals.

• Building heights were often a concern, but many respondents supported the proposed balance of heights, affordable housing and green space.

Consultation on updated Illustrative Masterplan and Detailed Plots

November - December 2023

The consultation exhibition showed the updated Illustrative Masterplan, presenting five key design moves (the ‘big moves’) developed in response to previous public and Local Authority feedback. Information regarding Character Areas, Ground Floor uses, and initial designs for the Detailed Plots was also provided. Feedback included:

• 614 respondents.

• Support for play spaces and cafes.

• Support for more amenity space rather than workspace.

• Desire for bold design and creative use of materiality.

• Desire for more defensible space in front of buildings.

Consultation on Phase 1 and Detailed Plots

March - April 2024

Responding to requests for more detail on Phase 1 designs, as well as additional detail on how the Design Code reflects the Illustrative Masterplan, the exhibition was revised and reopened in March 2024. A series of neighbouring area based workshops were held with local residents invited by post to attend. Questions and concerns expressed were addressed directly by the Design Teams, with input resulting in design changes such as further articulation of the taller buildings with in the LBHF plots.

Community detail workshops

April 2024 - May 2024

In Spring 2024, two more community workshops took place, with a focus on the Phase 1 proposals where the Design Teams presented the latest masterplan exhibition information and showed some of the proposed materials that would be used on the buildings.

Three key consultation exhibitions took place in this period presenting the emerging illustrative Masterplan, the Character Areas and the Detailed Plot designs. Feedback validated the masterplan’s response to previous engagement and informed the evolution of the Plot designs.

Empress Place Boulevard - Feb 2023

Detailed Component community workshop

4.4

Detailed Component Stage 2 & 2a

Consultation

Response to November 2023 public engagement feedback

The design proposals were developed to address some of the key feedback received in the November public consultation events, seeking to retain and enhance elements which were positively received and to address some of the concerns raised by members of the public at the events. Some of the key themes of the Detailed Plot engagement are set out below:

Positive

• “Yes, like the height graduation.”

• “Like the height graduation. Glad green spaces being developed early on.”

• “Supportive of variation in design /articulation across the buildings.”

Design Team response:

• The expression of the buildings as a family with common features, and distinctive characters was explored.

• The variety of height was enhanced across WB03, WB04 and WB05, with the differentiation further accentuated.

Positive, but with comments

• “The focus on Ground Floor activity is great. The buildings are quite foreign for this area though. I worry the area will feel very corporate.”

• “Good start but needs more trees, greenery

Design Team response:

• The podium connecting WB05 T1 and T2 was removed, with buildings landing on the ground. This created a more residential feel to the frontage onto Aisgill Gardens.

• A courtyard was introduced in WB05 to provide the opportunity for large trees in the ground, urban greening and playspace. Areas for planting at height were introduced through WB04 resident’s terraces and the planted podium roof.

Neutral

• “The more you can use plants to soften the building materials, the better.”

• “Fine as far as its goes. A lot more to be developed in the design of each building.”

• “Ensure they have fascias so they last when the

rain drips off, reduces damp and staining.”

Negative

• “I still think the development is too dense and the buildings too high for the area.”

• “Too much glass & steel, use of London stocks within the lower-level construction would make it feel more London. “

• “This is just high-rise concrete with no consideration whatsoever for the identity of the and shading and less hard open surfaces.”

Design Team response:

• Developed the extent of the landscape designs to include the WB05 courtyard, as well as podium and roof terraces.

• Undertook significant development of architectural character and façade articulation.

Design Team response:

• The height of WB05 was reduced from the height shown in the public consultation.

• Design development focused on the relationship between the WB03/04 horizontal podium form and how the vertical buildings meet the ground, for the humanscale experience.

December 2022 image of WB05 two -storey Podium

April 2024 image shows WB05 buildings landing on the ground, with the new Community Hub at the base of T1 and the future Community Hall (in Outline) as a standalone pavilion.

4.4 Detailed Component Stage 2 & 2a Consultation

Stakeholder engagement feedback

More frequent meetings were held during this stage with key statutory and planning stakeholders focusing on the LBHF Detailed Component.

The masterplan team also continued to liaise with the wider range of stakeholders as part of the development of the Strategic Framework.

Historic England’s London Advisory Committee (LAC)

19 September 2023

Three pre-application meetings with Historic England took place between June and November 2023, including a presentation to the LAC in September. Key feedback included:

• Supported the quantum reduction and the removal of a tall building in favour of a single landmark building.

• Requested further exploration to reduce the height of this building amid concerns about the levels of impact.

• Noted some buildings were coalescing in key townscape views, prompting a need to further refine the massing.

Design Team Response:

• The maximum height of WB04 as the tallest building was capped to respond to the kinetic view from Blackfrairs Bridge.

• The massing kept evolving to respond to townscape views. Particular attention was paid to the slenderness of WB03 and WB04 and evolution of the building tops.

• The buildings were conceived as a family of forms with individual expressions.

GLA

pre-application

meeting

8 November 2023

A meeting was held with the GLA to review both the emerging masterplan and LBHF Detailed Component designs. Key feedback included:

• Commended the strategic rotation of the tallest elements to face the Table Park, noting that it enhances the interaction between the buildings and the public space.

• Supported the provision of 100% habitable dual aspect layouts for all 2 and 3-bedroom homes.

• Supported the design’s aspiration to create generous, well proportioned amenity space.

• Appreciated the visual interest and character brought about by the distinctive building typologies and noted that they contribute to a cohesive townscape.

Design Team Response:

• Noted that tall buildings will need to be justified taking into account the qualitative criteria for tall buildings in the London Plan.

LBHF Inclusive Design Review Panels

(IDRPs) 11 July 2023 | January 2024

The IDRPs praised the team’s efforts to integrate inclusivity into the design and requested more information on public realm design and building interfaces. Key points raised included:

• Acknowledged the involvement of an Inclusive Access Consultant.

• Requested further detailed design of ramps and lifts to handle level changes around the site.

• Encouraged the provision of more resting places throughout the proposals.

• Requested better consideration of the needs of the visually impaired, including the use of materials to demarcate routes.

• Raised queries regarding movement and access in the first phase.

Design Team Response:

• In response to these items two further review panels took place to demonstrate the finalised proposals of the masterplan and the Detailed Components.

4.4 Detailed Component Stage 2 & 2a

Consultation

Planning engagement feedback

LBHF participated in pre-application workshops across three half days with the Design Team. These workshops allowed officers to review iterative massing model testing in a live VuCity environment and provide feedback to shape the design evolution.

LBHF pre-application meeting 31 October 2023

The purpose of this meeting was to present the emerging proposals for the LBHF Detailed Component. The discussion centred around the approach to layout and massing principles.

Comments received on WB03:

• The officers welcomed the celebration of the communal spaces and requested refinement to the form to create a more slender building.

Comments received on WB04:

• Questioned whether the roof terraces could be publicly accessible.

• Discussed the proposed approach to massing articulation through stepping terraces and whether the terraces will be appreciated from the ground level.

Design Team response:

• WB03: The building form was refined to increase slenderness.

• WB04: Public access to a residential building would require an additional two stair cores and two additional lifts to comply with fire regulations. This would materially impact the slenderness of the building. ECDC explored more feasible opportunities for public access elsewhere across the masterplan.

• WB04: The approach to massing continued to be tested, exploring alternatives to the stepped terrace concept.

LBHF pre-application workshop 9 November 2023

Discussions continued to focus on the developing approach to layout and massing.

Comments received on WB04:

• The green terraces concept needs to be deliverable.

• Ways of simplifying the façade expression were discussed. The horizontal banding was thought to hinder the reading of the vertical expression.

• Approaches to the articulation on the western part of the building were discussed. Further studies were requested to refine the western elevation.

Comments received on WB05:

• Requested additional details regarding the uses proposed within the community spaces.

Comments received on the WB03/04 Podium:

• The location of residential entrances to be further refined. Officers questioned if the horizontal podium needed to be broken down to reflect each building.

• Suggested that the buildings should land independently from the podium, and not be expressed as sitting on top of the podium.

Design Team Response:

• WB04: The massing was reduced on the western elevation. Greening has been focused on the podium and terraces which are open to the air.

• WB05: Both residential entrances were accessed through a shared courtyard garden which in turn, is accessed directly off Aisgill Gardens.

• WB05: the brief for the community spaces has been developed from analysis of existing successful schemes in London. This has been further refined through consultation with users of the existing Community Hub.

• WB03/04 Podium: All residential buildings now land on the ground with entrances accentuated to increase their visibility and legibility from Empress Place Boulevard and the Table Park.

• The proposed Community Hall (in Outline) was moved to sit separately from the new Community Hub in the base of WB05, to allow privacy and flexibility and to allow aspect and ventilation on all sides.

4.4 Detailed Component Stage 2 & 2a Consultation

LBHF pre-application workshop 17 November 2023

The meeting focused on the design development of buildings, specifically the refinement of the uppermost levels of WB03 and WB04, the integration of balconies and terraces as green features, and the scale and expression of the podium. The Community Hall (in Outline) and materiality of WB05 were also discussed.

Comments received on WB05:

• LBHF supported a stand-alone Community Hall separated from the WB05-T2 building by Aisgill Gardens Mews. The separated buildings better address Aisgill Avenue and create a more positive relationship with the Estates.

• The boundary landscape condition is important and needs to be considered sensitively.

• Noted the approach to detailing and materiality should to compliment the design of WB03 and WB04.

• LBHF supported the design direction and noted that WB05-T2 reads more successfully with the building landing at ground level.

Comments received on WB03:

• It was noted that the new options are more coherent – the diamond plan is arguably more slender, but the interface with the podium should be addressed.

• The townscape view from the south was discussed and the form of the bull-nose design was noted to be prominent.

Comments received on WB04:

• It was suggested the uppermost levels need more symmetry in plan and elevation to achieve an elegant tapered top.

Design Team response:

• WB05: Continued to test the brief for the new Community Hub and develop the form of the Community Hall (in Outline) to frame the edge of a new rectilinear MUGA (dependent on third party agreements).

• WB05: Brick colours and metalwork finishes were refined for greater alignment with the WB03 and WB04 palettes.

• WB03: Bull nose articulation was refined based on views from the south.

LBHF pre-application workshop 1 December 2023

The meeting focused on the design evolution and refinement of the proposals following the comments made in the previous pre-application meeting and broadened the discussion on the WB03/04 podium expression.

Comments received on WB04:

• LBHF noted a significant improvement in the latest iteration. Discussed exploring the expression of the top of the building, and the form of the uppermost full floorplate level when seen in key views.

• LBHF requested further testing to determine whether a directional or fully symmetrical building top option was preferred. Emphasised the top of the building should be prominent in the views.

Comments received on the WB03/04 Podium:

• The officers welcomed the emerging response and supported the balance created between a consistent street frontage and the erosion of the podium allowing the buildings to land on the ground. It was agreed the articulation of the podium needed to be sufficient to make a positive statement.

Four ‘Place Pillars’ were shaped by the engagement process, and served as an anchor for the Earls Court masterplan vision.

Design Team response:

• WB04: A significant gesture at the top and base replaced the terraces stepping through the body of the building.

• WB04: The team further tested the massing and articulation of the top of the building on the skyline in relation to townscape views. After testing several iterations, a symmetrical top emerged as the preferred direction.

• WB03/04 Podium: The evolution of the podium articulation continued, ensuring the creation of a consistent frontage to Empress Place Boulevard and strengthening the relationship between the podium and the Cascades.

February 2023 - June 2024

4.4 Detailed Component Stage 2 & 2a Consultation

Stakeholder engagement feedback

Meetings were held during this stage with key statutory and planning stakeholders about the LBHF Detailed Component.

The masterplan team also continued to liaise with the wider range of stakeholders as part of the development of the Strategic Framework.

GLA London Review Panel 4 December 2023

A meeting was held with the GLA’s London Review Panel to assess the LBHF Detailed Component. Key feedback included:

• Requested to further detail on the approach to materiality.

• Supported the variety of typologies, describing it as a “monolithic mosaic” of urban blocks forming streets with ample detail and variation.

• Supported the ‘Habitable dual aspect’ interpretation of the London Plan policy, which removes non-habitable rooms from the measurement.

• Questioned the design approach of WB04, suggesting that it may include too many ‘articulation ingredients’.

• Noted that the interface between the buildings and the podium should be developed further.

• WB03 to relook at the transition to the top of the building to align more with the design approach to WB04 building top.

Design Team response:

• The habitable dual aspect strategy was extended throughout all homes in WB04 and WB05.

• WB04: The façade expression was simplified to include stronger elements architectural precast, metal and glass. The interface between the podium and the entrance was refined.

LBHF Design Review Panel 13 December 2023

The panel welcomed the reduction in density and the evolution of the masterplan. The site-wide heights strategy and the location of the tallest building were thought to be a good approach. Key feedback included:

• The top of WB03 needs more presence.

• Discussed the WB03/04 podium should create a setting for the buildings and punctuate the ground plane.

• Noted that the top of WB04 feels out of balance. Integrity at the top could read through to the bottom. WB04 is all about the building top. It must be a glowing beacon from all sides with no dark spots.

• Noted the plant on the rooftop of WB05 is a challenge.

• The MUGA is important.

• Discussed further work on the back-of-house, servicing and drop-off with attention to creating a front-of-house feel to the service route.

Design Team response:

• The WB03/04 podium massing and façade onto the Service Access Route was developed to allow the road to be as open to the sky as possible, and articulate the building entrances.

• WB03: The building height was increased by one storey, and the shoulder height was reduced by one storey, giving a better balance between the building top and body.

HSE Fire Safety Pre-app meeting 4 April 2024

A meeting was held with the HSE to review the fire safety strategy for the LBHF Detailed Component. Key feedback included:

• The HSE endorsed the approach to fire safety.

• The provision of two staircases in the LBHF Detailed Component was well received.

• The site-wide fire service access strategy was commended for allowing proper fire appliance access.

Design Team response:

The Design Team continued to develop the details of the scheme, safeguarding the agreed fire strategy.

4.4 Detailed Component Stage 2 & 2a

Consultation

Response to March 2024 public engagement feedback

The design proposals were developed to address some of the key feedback received in the March public consultation events, seeking to retain and enhance elements which were positively received and to address some of the concerns raised by members of the public. Highlighted below are some of the key themes raised following engagement on the detailed design proposals and how they have been addressed.

Positive

• “Love the art deco inspiration. Great way to differentiate from other new build areas like Elephant and Castle, Kings Cross etc. ”

• “Rooftop gardens on lower levels are great!”

• “Generally appear to be good designs and layouts.”

Design Team response:

• The team continued to refine the design taking inspiration from Art Deco motifs of the soaring verticals and soft curves.

• A detailed review of layouts was undertaken with inclusive design and access consultants to optimise the designs and demonstrate compliance/betterment against planning policy.

Positive, but with comments

• “Organic feeling, friendly, modern, soft rounded edges, welcoming; however, the last building was a bit grey/boring.”

• “Broadly good/attractive designs, however, the buildings need more symmetry, more shading and less hard open surfaces.”

Design Team response:

• The soft rounded edges were further developed across all the buildings, through the podium and the building entrances.

• Cascading pavilion forms that navigate the Cascade level change, were further refined to increase the organic feel.

Community Consultation preferences

Neutral

• “Maximising solar PV generation wherever possible, including on any carports, covered walkways, etc.”

• “Are you making the best use of all roof spaces, eg, solar panels.”

Negative

Design Team response:

• Roofscapes of the buildings underwent detailed development work. The sitewide energy strategy for the Masterplan relies on a large amount of rooftop plant for air source heat pumps (ASHPs) which connect to an ambient loop. To achieve this, the ASHPs were located across WB05 T1 and T2.

• The tops of WB03 and WB04 accommodate Building Maintenance Units (BMUs) and smoke ventilation plant. The introduction of PV was not possible, the space was not available.

571 people gave their opinion on what they would like to see in the new Community Hub. The most popular preferences were for a cafe, educational facilities and a flexible hall space.

571 provided their preferences

• “The scale of everything seems very large at the moment. It’d be good to have some smaller/ cosier feeling areas.. think Pavilion Road in Chelsea.”

Design Team response:

• A mews street was created between the new Community Hub and the Community Hall (in Outline).

• The new Community Hub and WB05 T2 presented a more domestic scale and character to the street.

• The new Community Hub was designed to allow for maximum flexibility.

4.4 Detailed Component Stage 2 & 2a

Consultation

Planning engagement feedback

Planning engagement intensified through the spring of 2024, with the continued input from the borough helping to positively shape the detailed design proposals. The feedback on the upper levels and base of WB04 helped shape the final design concept, which unifies the building’s form and materials.

LBHF detailed pre-application meeting

5 March 2024

This meeting focused on the ground experience, and the façade treatment across the LBHF Detailed Component. Key feedback received:

• Supported the developed proposals, noting that the scheme had resolved many of the issues discussed to date.

• WB05 buildings should celebrate landing on the ground through a different treatment.

• Supported the four-storey entrance to WB04, and its relationship to the top of the building.

LBHF detailed pre-application meeting

3 May 2024

The session focused on the design development changes of WB04 and the form and expression of the uppermost levels. The moves made to the massing were received well. Specific comments included:

• Noted the waterfall concept development, which meets the desire for a strong concept that unifies the building form and materials.

• Supported the more elegant tapering form to the upper levels of the building.

Leadership meetings

12 February - 13 May 2024

Throughout this period, a series of meetings were held with the LBHF leadership team to discuss the evolving proposals. The meetings centred around key themes such as layout, scale and massing, architectural expression and design quality, as well as the overall narrative of the LBHF Detailed Component and its relationship with the Illustrative Masterplan. The engagement with LBHF’s leadership helped shape the evolving designs of the proposals.

• Supported the waterfall concept unifying the massing across the different elements of the building. Noted that the building’s top articulation should read as one element above level 33.

• Requested symmetry between east and west elevations of WB04.

• Supported the increased visibility of the residential entrance with the podium becoming more secondary.

• Supported the building articulation through metal rods of various scales and reflectivity.

Design Team response:

• WB05: Expression of Ground Floor further developed, with the introduction of an accent colour. The balconies were updated to relate more to WB03 and WB04.

• WB04: In spring of 2024, the scheme evolved to incorporate a symmetrical response to both the east and west. This was in response to reviewing the townscape views.

Evolution of the stepping form to provide equality between East and West and create a slender profile.

4.4 Detailed Component Stage 2 & 2a Consultation

Stakeholder engagement feedback

response

- demonstrating

Stakeholder engagement continued to finalise the proposals during this period. Final reviews were held with the LBHF Design Review Panel, the GLA’s London Review Panel, and the LBHF Inclusive DRP through May and June 2024. These reviews presented the consolidated designs in response to previous feedback.

LBHF Design Review Panel

28th May 2024

The updated design proposals were presented.

The LBHF DRP concluded with the summary from the Chair:

• Supportive of the direction of development of the scheme.

• Commended the articulation of Empress Place Boulevard and the spaces that it creates.

• Commended the relationship between the podium and the Cascades and the extension of the podium out to the west.

• Noted that buildings are very well articulated - polite neighbours to each other and in strong dialogue.

• Questioned whether the Service Access Road could be softened further with greenery.

• Supported the WB05 buildings composition.

• Supported the colour choice across the base of the buildings.

• Supported the way that WB05 T1/T2 lands on the ground differently from the rest of the buildings.

• Suggested screening to the rooftop plant of WB05.

GLA London Review Panel 12 June 2024

A meeting was held with the GLA’s London Review Panel to respond to the December review and share the LBHF Detailed Component finalised proposal. The panel were unanimously supportive and complimentary of all the buildings. Key feedback noted:

• The panel welcomed the extent of public engagement.

• Endorsed the collaborative approach between the 8 architectural practices.

• Commended the masterplanning process and supportive of the updated design proposals.

• Noted that care and attention to detail was evident in the evolution of the final design proposals.

• Discussed WB03 and WB04 –and noted bringing buildings to the ground is successful.

• Acknowledged that the podium treatment is continuous and successful.

• Stated that rationalisation of buildings is positive and that the buildings seem to be bolder and simpler as a result.

• Supported the idea of the separate Community Hall (in Outline), and the real opportunity for it to work as a standalone use.

LBHF Inclusive DRPs

May 2024 | 18 June 2024

The finalised proposals of the Illustrative Masterplan and the LBHF Detailed Component were shared with the LBHF Inclusive DRP, to demonstrate how previous comments had been addressed. Further specific detailed comments were raised, and noted here:

• Requested public lifts to be more visible in the masterplan for ease of wayfinding.

• Noted that delivery service should be tailored to accessible homes.

• Discussed the approach to signage and how wayfinding should be improved if that signage is usable and visible to everyone in all weathers.

• Noted that where there are non-demarcated routes and shared surfaces, there needed to be signs detailing speed guidance for e-scooters, electric bikes, etc.

• Reviewed blue badge vehicular access and movement alongside the turning circle layouts.

4.4 Detailed Component Stage 2 & 2a Consultation

Iterative design development

The design proposals were developed to address some key feedback received in the public consultation events and stakeholder engagement feedback.

Pre Stage 2: Exploration of form and composition

At the beginning of stage 2, in response to the reduction in the number of buildings forming the LBHF Detailed Component, the team explored the form of each building and the composition as a whole.

With WB04 defined as the urban landmark for the masterplan, its form needed to be considered in the round. The change of tenure of WB03 to student accommodation also informed the changes in form of WB03.

A two-storey podium linked the WB05 buildings, accompanied by a green roof terrace and a mews space. A standalone Community Hall (in Outline) was proposed at the point of arrival from Aisgill Avenue.

Each building’s form was tested in relation to daylight/sunlight on surrounding properties and in the wider masterplan.

Green terraces were set back to terminate the uppermost levels of WB03 and WB04, and further terraces step around the WB04 form.

Mid Stage 2: Building articulation

The plan of WB03 evolved from a rectilinear shape to a stretched diamond layout/form. A distinct bull-nose expression was introduced for the shared kitchen and dining area, accentuating the verticality of the building and celebrating the panoramic views.

The stepping terraces of WB04 were removed to enhance the building’s vertical expression. Design exploration of the uppermost levels of buildings WB03 and WB04 sought to improve slenderness, resulting in more articulated buildings.

Explorations of the podium design focused on addressing Empress Place Boulevard. The result was a horizontally articulated form with a consistent frontage punctuated by vertically expressed residential entrances.

The design of WB05 evolved from a wavy to a stepped form to maximise dual aspect within the homes. The height of WB05-T1 was reduced to allow for a more gradual transition towards Aisgill Avenue.

Final Stage 2: Final Evolution of the proposal

Further explorations of the façade design and materiality of WB04 resulted in the development of the Cascading Waterfall concept. The Cascading Waterfall is created by curved glass panels and semi-reflective metal tubes which run across the façade, unifying the body of the building and flowing down to the Cascades. The uppermost levels of the building were revised to have symmetrical stepping in response to long views from LBHF and RBKC.

The transition in massing at the uppermost levels of WB03 was exaggerated to create a positive dialogue with the uppermost levels of WB04.

The WB05 design evolved to allow for the buildings to land on the ground, providing clarity of built forms. The final proposal includes a central resident’s courtyard that is framed by the two WB05 residential buildings. A new Community Hub is proposed within the Ground Floor of WB05-T2 and an opportunity is reserved for a future standalone Community Hall and associated outdoor mews space (in Outline).

4.5 Design Development

A spotlight on evolving the design

The final massing proposal is a result of extensive testing using physical models.

A series of physical design models were created at various stages of the design process. The models were used to test the relative merits of the form and mass of each building, the overall composition, and the relationship to the Illustrative Masterplan. The form and stepping of the tops of the buildings was tested extensively across each building.

Digital modelling allowed the emerging buildings to be tested for daylight/sunlight, wind and townscape impacts. Townscape views were reviewed with the planning officers, and the massing was iteratively refined following these reviews.

Physical models at a 1:50 scale were developed to explore the envelope expression. Models were also used as part of Public Consultation.

Testing the top of WB03

Early Site model

Iterative design of the WB03 student accommodation building

Iterative massing development of WB04

1:50 Façade model test for WB04

Range of models and samples of all three buildings created for Public Consultation

Design Development

Technical testing of emerging proposals

The LBHF Detailed Component design evolved through an iterative process of technical assessments. Feedback and design amendments in response to several environmental constraints, to assess the optimum balance of height distribution, public and private external amenity, and residential quality.

In early 2023, two building forms were explored for WB03 based on either a symmetrical form or a curved option. Following daylight/ sunlight testing across the masterplan, the curved option was shown to have a larger impact on the neighbouring properties. As a result of this iterative testing, the symmetrical option was adopted as the preferred approach.

Daylight/sunlight analysis was undertaken to ensure that neighbouring residents were not adversely impacted by the LBHF Detailed Component. Extensive studies informed the ideal height and massing for WB05. This refined the location of buildings, the stepped massing and the form of rooftop plant. The Design Team developed the massing to fit within a no impact mould, to ensure visible sky and adequate daylight is retained to neighbouring residents.

Iterative microclimate testing of the private amenity in WB04, resulted in the adoption of internalised amenity space for homes most affected by the prevailing wind. This is described in detail in chapter 6.

October 2023: Iterative massive options testing.

November 2023: WB05 sun exposure testing. Following the testing results, the accommodation on the southern edge of WB05 was removed to allow sunlight into the residential courtyard.

Lowest

Lowest

4.5 Design Development

A spotlight on the design evolution of WB03

The design for WB03 has evolved through iterative testing in response to consultation feedback.

In October 2023, an updated design was developed based on a stretched diamond plan featuring prominent bullnose massing for the shared kitchen/dining area. While the overall form was well received, feedback indicated the need for refinement in the upper levels and suggested reconsidering the angular concave element.

In November 2023, after further testing, the concave element was removed from the top levels, and options were explored for the bullnose form.

In December 2023, feedback from the LBHF Design Review Panel recommended exploring a more gradual transition of mass at the top of the building.

In January 2024, an orthogonal version of the top of the building was considered, but the preference was to retain the curved option.

Finally, in April-May 2024, a revised design for the top of the building, featuring a more gradual transition of mass, was presented and subsequently adopted as the basis of the application.

Design Development

A spotlight on design iterations WB04

The form of the buildings was developed from an early stage to maximise dual aspect homes to deliver the best residential quality. Natural ventilation, ample daylight, and a variety of views are provided throughout the building form.

In July 2023, the design sought to introduce green stepping terraces throughout the building and maximise the provision of high-quality external private amenities.

In September 2023, the number of steps in the building form was reduced, along with introducing a symmetrical response to the south and north. The feedback suggested a need for a stronger emphasis on the building’s verticality.

In October 2023, the stepping terraces were removed to reinforce the slender vertical expression. The façade expression was considered too gridded, with the top of the building disjointed from the body and the base.

In December 2023, a review of the townscape views highlighted the importance of the top of the building in both local and distant views. Further design studies were undertaken to enhance the slenderness of the building.

In May 2024, a symmetrical response to the east and west was introduced to address long views from both LBHF and RBKC. Additionally, a strong unifying concept of a cascading waterfall flowing from the top to the base and the Cascades was introduced.

The scale and expression of the entrance developed considerably through the consultation process.

Multiple iterations of the entrance expression and how the building interfaces with both the podium and Empress Place Boulevard were tested.

The articulation of the podium and its relationship to the Cascades was commended by the LBHF DRP.

Design Development

A spotlight on design

iterations of WB05 and the new Community Hub

The design options considered the quality of homes, placement of the new Community Hub and the relationship with the neighbouring context.

In August 2023, the residential plan form of the building was rectilinear with 50% of units being dual aspect.

In September-November 2023, plan options were explored to maximise habitable dual aspect homes. The typical floor plan was refined with 100% habitable dual aspect, offering high quality homes to its residents.

The connection between the new Community Hub and the dwellings was also tested extensively. The Design Team explored a Community Hall (in Outline) connected to the WB05-T2 residential building.

In May 2024, the design was refined to allow buildings to land on the ground, and provide clarity to the built forms. This improved daylight, increased active frontage and allowed the Community Hall (in Outline) to be used separately.

4.6 Design Evolution Summary

Comprehensive engagement informed each iteration of the design proposals. A wide range of topics were reviewed by a number of stakeholders which allowed the designs to iterate and evolve into a robust response to feedback.

The masterplan team introduced the Cascades to celebrate the level changes across the Site. The Plot Team developed the courtyard garden design of WB05 and the podium and terraces of WB03 and WB04.

• The cascading pavilions were designed to celebrate the terraced landscape of the Cascades.

• Aisgill Gardens Mews was introduced between the new Community Hub and the Community Hall (in Outline), and the courtyard playspace was created between WB05 T1 and T2.

• Responding to the PRIP’s priority for a designated sports play zone, WB05 was set back from the triangular MUGA to safeguard the opportunity to create a rectilinear MUGA (as defined in the Outline Component).

• The Service Access Road design was developed with secondary WB03 and WB04 entrance lobbies fronting onto it, ensuring a safe and welcoming arrival experience from both sides of the building.

• The Plot Team continued to develop the Ground Floor uses to ensure that the range of uses is appropriate and to maximise levels of active frontage.

• Retail, food and beverage, flexible commercial uses were introduced along Empress Place Boulevard whilst allowing the uses to change over time as the Site is established.

• Community engagement shaped the brief for the new Community Hub. A cafe, a horticultural kitchen, an art room and flexible rooms were incorporated. Integrated storage allows for flexible use of the rooms.

• The new Community Hub was designed to allow maximum flexibility so that the space can be adapted to meet the users’ needs.

The approach to daylight and overheating within the homes was a particular focus in evolving the designs. The stakeholder and public engagement feedback continued to support the sustainability goals of the Illustrative Masterplan.

• 100% of homes achieve habitable dual aspect. This enables good passive ventilation.

• Numerous rounds of daylight, overheating and thermal performance testing were conducted to address the overheating and daylighting requirements.

• Circular design strategies and design for disassembly were developed, with prefabricated façade panels being considered for WB03 and WB04.

• The WB03/04 podium incorporated plant space for the ambient loop, while the rooftops of WB05 accommodated heat pumps to facilitate delivery of the site-wide energy strategy.

Feedback from consultation events, planning, stakeholder and technical reviews shaped the development of the building heights and massing strategy.

• The WB05 buildings stepped down in height and were orientated to stitch into the local context.

• The scale and expression of the tops of WB03 and WB04 buildings changed considerably following feedback from the LBHF planning team, stakeholder engagement and the consideration of the townscape views.

• The resolution of the podium and the landing of the buildings evolved iteratively, assisted by feedback from the Design Review Panels.

• The focus on the WB04 building as the landmark tall building within the masterplan resulted in a more refined concept for the façade.

Proposed massing - a family of forms with the distinct creation of a single landmark building.

5 Strategic Design

The Strategic Framework

A Strategic Framework that embeds the vision for the Earls Court Site

Consultation and engagement established a clear set of priorities for the Design Team to respond to. This informed the urban design framework for the Site which embed the place pillars of nature, innovation, culture and neighbourhood.

This chapter describes the spatial layers that create a flexible spatial framework, able to adapt to future needs and deliver an exemplary new piece of city over time. It then goes on to explain how the Detailed Component principles have been informed by the Strategic Framework.

The place pillars deliver the priorities established in consultation...

Open up the former Exhibition Centres Site for the first time in 150 years - giving back to local communities.

...to

create an embedded place through spatial layers...

Create a better piece of city - a blueprint for future generations.

The spatial layers address the complexity of the Site and reflect the diverse local character, transforming a brownfield site dominated by infrastructure into an inclusive, sustainable and rich mosaic of spaces and activities. These key moves are described further in this chapter and include:

• Turning constraints into opportunities

• Opening up the Site

• Stitching the Site into its context

A showground of world-class ingenuity - celebrating its legacy and history.

Addressing the climate emergency - an ambition to go beyond net zero.

• A destination landscape

• A varied public realm network

• Flexible Development Zones

• Embedding the place pillars

• A stepped approach to heights

• A layered approach to scale

• A range of typologies and architectural variety

• Seven Character Areas

...and underpinned by the approach to sustainability.

The project’s approach to sustainability is set out in the Earls Court Sustainable Development Charter (SDC). Goals from this document will be referenced throughout this chapter, demonstrating how each spatial move embeds sustainability.

The Strategic Framework

Key considerations for the Strategic Framework

Earls Court is brownfield land, centrally located within Zone 1 and exceptionally well connected by the existing public transport network. These attributes position the Site as an appropriate place for significant growth in new homes, employment opportunities and lifestyle activities.

This is supported by the London Plan’s Good Growth objectives GG1-GG6 and Policy D3 (Optimising site capacity through a design led approach). Policy D9 (Tall Buildings) recognises the role tall buildings can play in the optimisation of sites and has guided the approach to distribution of massing and height.

The Local Plans in both boroughs identify the Site as a location to deliver significant numbers of homes and jobs as part of the Earl’s Court and West Kensington Opportunity Area.

Optimising development capacity within the Earl’s Court and West Kensington Opportunity Area

• The Site sits within the Opportunity Area designation, setting a clear brief for the delivery of homes and jobs.

• A process of design-led site optimisation has arrived at a scheme that makes the best use of the land to deliver homes, economic growth and the framework for a strong and inclusive community.

Delivering a mix of uses to create a vibrant and resilient place

Making the most of proximity to public transport

• Three TfL stations border the Site, providing exceptional connectivity.

• London Plan Policy D3 promotes higher density developments in locations that are well connected to jobs, services, infrastructure and amenities by public transport, walking and cycling.

Addressing the climate emergency

• Sustainability was established as a priority from the outset, and every move within the Strategic Framework is underpinned by a commitment to deliver long term economic, social and environmental sustainability.

• The relevant goals from the project’s Sustainable Development Charter are embedded throughout the Strategic Framework chapter.

A sensitive response to heritage and townscape considerations Driven by environmental analysis

• Earls Court will be a place for everyone, where all generations and abilities will have access to homes, jobs, amenities, culture and leisure activities.

• As a microcosm of London, the balance of uses will bring the place to life throughout the week, day and night.

• The Site has no London View Management Framework (LVMF) constraints and has been recognised in both borough’s Local Plans as an appropriate location for tall buildings.

• Aligned with London Plan Policy D9, the local and wider context has been carefully analysed to sensitively craft the skyline of the development, establishing and locating height where it is appropriate.

• Achieving optimal conditions appropriate to the intended uses with respect to wind, daylight, sunlight and thermal comfort has driven the locations and form of buildings and public open spaces within the Strategic Framework.

• This process has been iterative and continuous throughout design development.

Neighbourhood Culture Innovation Nature

5.1 The Strategic Framework

The Strategic Framework underpins the Parameter Plans and Design Code documents. It establishes a series of spatial layers that embed the aspirations established through the engagement process. Careful consideration of sustainability and the place pillars results in a robust masterplan.

The Strategic Framework is...

...using the circular economy to turn constraints into opportunities.

...creating the place by curating a mix of uses ensuring it is lively and vibrant throughout the day, night and week.

...connecting the local area by opening up and stitching in.

...a contextual response that is sensitive to townscape and heritage considerations with a range of building typologies.

...landscapeled, providing accessible public open spaces for people to enjoy and connect with nature.

...made up of seven Character Areas that draw from the existing local context to form one coherent neighbourhood.

5.2 Four Place Pillars

A celebration of nature and its ability to connect and revive

Responding to the masterplan vision

The LBHF Detailed Component responds to the four place pillars that underpin the masterplan as follows:

A showcase for climate and clean innovation and skills

A design rooted in nature:

• Providing generous shared amenities across the plots, podium gardens, a courtyard, green terraces, and balconies.

• Together, they promote rich ecosystems and wellbeing, improving the quality of life for new and existing communities.

• Amplifying and connecting with the landscaped public spaces around them.

A cultural ecosystem for the future of talent

A sustainability-focused design:

• Efficient building forms allow future flexibility.

• Generous social spaces and private amenities.

• 100% habitable dual aspect residential homes and shared student areas.

• Rainwater harvesting, storage, and recycling.

• Connection to the site-wide ambient loop to deliver zero carbon energy to homes.

• Commitment to Home Quality Mark (HQM) 4* and aspiration to HQM 5*.

An active ground experience:

• The cultural venues at Earls Court are enhanced by a supporting network of active ground level uses along Empress Place Boulevard.

• Restaurants, cafes, and flexible spaces designed for socialising support the ecosystem of cultural anchors as places to visit before and after events.

An inspiring neighbourhood designed for all stages of life

Designed for diversity:

• The buildings offer opportunities for multi-generational living by providing student accommodation and different home types, from solo living to family homes.

• A range of amenities and offerings are provided at the base of the buildings and within the wider masterplan for the local residents and visitors.

• Community and leisure facilities designed to serve the residents and diverse local community.

5.3 Detailed Component Strategic Response

Response to policy

The Detailed Component design builds upon the masterplan Strategic Framework which has evolved through a design-led approach. The proposed built form of the Detailed Component, including specific scale and massing, has been developed by positively addressing the qualitative requirements of the London Plan and the LBHF Local Plan.

The following pages are structured around three themes used by these policy documents to assess the proposed development:

Location

On a wider scale, the Hybrid Application Site is allocated as a development site by the London Plan as well as the LBHF Local Plan. Moreover, the LBHF Detailed Component is in an optimal location for tall buildings as defined in both frameworks. The impact of the proposed tall buildings has been determined through a designled assessment which takes into consideration the impact and quality they will have on the immediate and wider context.

Impact

The impact on the heritage and townscape views has been at the forefront of the proposals from concept stage. Multiple rounds of technical assessments and consultations were employed to determine the impact of the design on the local environment (including daylight and microclimate impact) as well as the visual impact of the buildings’ heights.

Quality

Both the London Plan and the LBHF Local Plan set out principles for high-quality design. The following pages detail the various principles applied to the tall buildings across the LBHF Detailed Component site.

Detailed Component Strategic Response

London Plan and LBHF

Local Policy

The design addresses scale and massing in tall buildings in line with policies D3, D9 of the London Plan as well as DC3 in the LBHF local plan.

Ensuring positive form, layout, experience, quality and character through design-led approach

The London Plan

Ensuring positive form, layout, experience,

Making the

and character by creating successful, sustainable, mixed-use places.

Spatial

Connected area

prioritising

pedestrian and cycle access Active frontages through a range of flexible uses

and accessible residential entrances

Detailed Component Principles

Buildings landing on the ground through vertical continuity Taller buildings clustered around Empress State Building Steps down in height to meet sensitive edges

Built Form & Design

Buildings mass articulated in plan and elevation to create slender forms

Base-middletop distinction to address the different scales of the city

Townscape and heritage views assessed through consultation

Distinctive building tops to create a positive contribution to the skyline

Material quality and architectural language inspired by the West London context

GG2:

best

Optimising site capacity Policy D9: Tall Buildings

DC3: Tall Buildings

Earl’s Court and West Kensington Opportunity Area Policy CC2: Ensuring Sustainable Design and Construction LBHF Local Plan

5.3 Detailed Component Strategic Response

Response to Masterplan Strategic Framework

This chapter describes the key spatial and formal principles adopted by the LBHF Detailed Component in response to the Strategic Framework. These ensure it is flexible, adaptable to future needs, and resilient to deliver a new piece of the city over time.

The design of the LBHF Detailed Component was developed through an engagement process with the masterplan Strategic Framework, establishing shared aspirations. The spatial principles highlighted on this page were developed to address the specific context conditions and brief across WB03, WB04 and WB05.

The result is a lively, diverse and welcoming group of buildings embedded in the existing and emerging context. The lower levels of these buildings create a varied streetscape in response to the two Character Areas: Empress Place and Aisgill Gardens. The Detailed Component proposals embrace the level changes and landscape-led public spaces as an opportunity for an exciting destination, reinforcing the connection to nature.

► Turning constraints into opportunities

Opportunity for height around the Empress State Building and multi-level Ground Floor to respond to the level changes of the Site around the Table structure.

► Creating a lively and vibrant place

► For more information on the Strategic Framework refer to the Design and Access Statement Volume 1 (EC.PA.08).

Nurturing an inclusive place through a varied offer of commercial, community and retail spilling out into the landscape, with residential entrances forming part of a varied and lively streetscape.

► Opening up and stitching in

Framing the two main new routes of the Site southnorth and east-west and stitching into the adjoining existing and future neighbourhoods.

► A contextual response

Stepping in the massing to manage the transition between the neighbouring buildings. Generous distances between buildings to achieve good levels of sunlight on the public realm and preserve daylight to neighbouring properties.

► Landscape-led

Amplifying nature at different levels and fostering a healthy lifestyle through landscaped private and shared amenity spaces.

► A neighbourhood with individual identities

Forming a family of buildings with distinctive personalities by responding to the masterplan Character Areas and defining commonalities in the buildings’ architectural language.

5.4 Spatial principles

Turning constraints into opportunities

The retained structures and existing buildings around the plot Site are embraced as opportunities to create a unique place.

Height around Empress State Building (“ESB”)

The ESB is the tallest existing building in the area, already distinguished and noted by the local community. Its position and height provide an opportunity to cluster tall buildings around it.

An active London street parallel to the railway infrastructure

The Table structure provides an opportunity to create a double-storey podium with active frontages to the pedestrianised Empress Place Boulevard, informed by the datum of the Empress Place Victorian houses.

Service access facing the ESB boundary

The ESB boundary condition (at level +4.0m AOD) provides an opportunity for vehicular service access to the Lower Ground Floor of the proposals, separated from the pedestrian and cyclists main routes (at level +8.0m AOD).

SDC Goal - Circular Resource Use

Integrating existing structures into the design to provide them with a new purpose that complements the proposals.

5.4 Spatial Principles

Opening

up the site

The LBHF Detailed Component contributes to the generation of a fully connected place that stitches into the existing context.

New routes into and across the site from eastwest and north-south were identified as a priority during the consultation process. The two new routes open up the site, providing unrestricted public access for the first time in 150 years.

The people-first public realm approach prioritises active modes of travel and connects the site to the wider local street and public transport networks. Most of the public realm is vehiclefree, creating a place that is safe and accessible.

Service access is provided parallel with the ESB boundary to the west and south of the site, with access through the entrance to the bus layover. A security gate will restrict access into the WB02 plot and onwards into plots WB03, 04, 05 and 06.

The design promotes pedestrian and cycle movement in the public realm, encouraging

Aisgill Gardens

The Cascades

Brompton Station

Lillie Sidings Square

5.4 Spatial Principles

A varied streetscape and a lively Ground Floor experience

The proposals will help to bring the site back to life through commercial and community uses, which will draw visitors into the place and activate the Ground Floor.

Historically, the Exhibition Centres sustained an ecosystem of venues and businesses in the local area. The proposals will promote a new local economy and a vibrant urban experience through the mixed-use offer of the Ground Floor.

Empress Place Boulevard

Conceived as a lively London Street, it will have active frontages on two sides formed through a mixture of cafes, restaurants, shops and flexible retail and commercial units. The street is also punctuated by WB03 and WB04 residential entrances.

The Cascades

Flexible commercial uses such as cafes and restaurants are located at the north edge of the podium follow the cascading topography and provide an active frontage when approaching from Lillie Sidings Square.

Aisgill Gardens

A flexible commercial unit and a new Community Hub open onto the Gardens. The residential entrance to WB05, located between the buildings, is providing visual continuity between the gardens and the landscaped courtyard space.

Aisgill Gardens

The Cascades

Lillie Sidings Square

5.5 Environmental drivers

Environmental and townscape response

The proposals have been developed in response to the existing environmental conditions, addressing the buildings’ impact on the surrounding context and assessing the visual impact from different distances.

SDC Goal - Celebrating and enhancing our natural environment

The proposals seek to preserve the environment of the surrounding context and improve the environment of the Site by integrating nature into the buildings.

5.5 Environmental drivers

Embedding a response to water

The proposals have been informed by the masterplan’s approach to water and nature-based solutions, which has evolved in response to the Site’s history and the sustainability aspirations.

Hidden Lost River

The watercourse of Counters Creek became a defining element on the Earls Court Site, forming the boundary between the boroughs of Kensington & Chelsea and Hammersmith & Fulham and later becoming the route of the West London Railway Line.

Water and climate change

Water and climate change are inextricably linked. Climate change affects the world’s water, from unpredictable rainfall patterns to shrinking ice sheets, rising sea levels, floods, and droughts.

Water in the City

With population growth, urbanisation, and economic development, the demand for freshwater in urban areas is increasing throughout Europe (European Environmental Agency: https://www.eea.europa.eu/articles/water-in-thecity).

SDC Goal - Celebrating and enhancing our natural environment

Nature-based solutions can improve air quality, reduce wind speeds, foster comfortable amenity, reduce the heat island effect, enhance biodiversity and improve well-being.

The Cascades in the Illustrative Masterplan: Interactive landscaped play for all

Counters Creek. Kensington Canal by William Cowen (1791 - 1864)

Illinois building - The man-made lake. The Chicago Exhibition (c.1893)

Sketch diagram of the water and nature narrative for the plot in the context of the masterplan.

Scale & Massing

A stepped approach to heights

The massing has been developed as a response to the existing Site’s context and the surrounding typologies and urban fabric.

The scale of the massing is generally lower and more sensitive around the Site’s perimeter, and steps up towards the centre of the Earls Court masterplan:

• WB05 mid-rise residential buildings relate to the scale of the West Kensington and Gibbs Green Estates.

• WB03 mediates the transition in height along Empress Place Boulevard and responds to the height of the Empress State Building (ESB).

• The stepped approach to massing culminates in the tallest building, WB04, which will assist with navigation into and through the site.

Base - middle - top

The base-middle-top organisation contributes to the layered approach to scale:

• The base frames the public realm with a predominant horizontal expression.

• The middle forms the extruded body of the buildings, that negotiates between the top and ground through a series of slender vertical forms.

• The tops reduce the mass of the buildings to offer an elegant silhouette to the cluster, as seen from a distance.

EmpressPlaceBoulevard

The Cascades Aisgill

WB04 WB03

Empress State Building (ESB)

Table Park

Aisgill Avenue

Scale & Massing

Base: stitching in

The base of the buildings frame and enhance key masterplan public spaces to integrate with the wider area and invite people in.

There are three connected public spaces that are framed by the LBHF Detailed Component: Aisgill Gardens to the north-west, the Cascades to the north, and Empress Place Boulevard to the east.

Empress Place Boulevard

Conceived as a vehicle free landscaped space, it serves as the main pedestrian and cycle connection from Lillie Road. The WB03 and WB04 podium frame the space with active frontages, preserving the two-storey datum of the Empress Place terraced houses.

The Cascades

The Cascades are a terraced landscape that celebrate the level change with water features at the confluence of the pedestrian and cycle routes. The northern edge of the WB04 podium complements the level changes with cascading pavilions that offer cultural and food and beverage uses.

Aisgill Gardens

Aisgill Gardens is a generous community-focused space. It is an inviting place for existing residents of the neighbouring estate, activated by new community and flexible retail uses at the Ground Floor of WB05.

EmpressPlaceBoulevard

Massing diagram highlighting the lower levels of the buildings in relation to the Plot’s neighbouring buildings and landscape areas

Empress Place Boulevard frontages

The Cascades frontages

Aisgill Gardens frontages

Empress State Building frontages

Residential entrances

SDC Goal - A wonderful place to live, work and visit

Active frontages and entrances play a key role in creating an attractive public realm experience for residents and visitors. The design integrates the base of the buildings with the surrounding context to invite people in.

The function of the base should be to frame the public realm and streetscape, articulate entrances, and help create an attractive and lively public realm which provides a safe, inclusive, interesting, and comfortable pedestrian experience.

Aisgill Avenue

The Cascades

Aisgill Gardens

Empress State Building (ESB) plot

Table Park

Scale & Massing

Middle: optimal building forms designed from the inside out.

The building forms are driven by the design quality aspirations for the individual buildings, considering their impact on the immediate context.

The following design principles have been key in shaping the buildings’ massing:

Outside-In

• Orientating the buildings to be parallel to each other enables sunlight to reach homes and the public realm.

• Compelling massing forms considered from views on all sides.

• Symmetrical forms with rounded corners to complement the form of the ESB.

• Accentuation of the vertical geometry to create elegant buildings.

Inside-Out

• Efficient massing forms tailored to the specific uses in each building.

• Articulated floor plates to maximise habitable dual aspect homes.

• Private amenity to all homes located in corners with ample views and good daylight.

• Internalised amenity where required to mitigate wind.

• Shared living areas for students located in bull-nose of WB03 to make the most of the ample views.

The buildings are designed to provide high quality residential and student accommodation, with good levels of daylight and sunlight, ventilation, amenity, and views to the surrounding landscaped public spaces.

The middle of a building has an important effect on how much sky is visible from surrounding streets and buildings, as well as on wind flow, privacy and the amount of sunlight and shadowing there is in the public realm and surrounding properties.

London Plan - Policy D9

Massing diagram highlighting the middle levels of the buildings and response to environmental conditions.

The Cascades Aisgill Gardens

Empress State Building (ESB) plot

Table Park

Aisgill Avenue

Scale & Massing

Top: a positive contribution to the skyline

The stepping forms and the material quality of the building tops create a compelling composition on the skyline.

The building tops are designed to follow the below design principles:

• Steps in the massing of each building to help transition in scale from lower to taller buildings.

• Incremental reduction of the massing to control the daylight and sunlight impact on neighbouring homes.

• Architectural expression distinguished to reflect the buildings’ prominence at height.

• Characterful tops to aid orientation and wayfinding, with WB04 providing a landmark within the Site and the wider area.

• Lighter materiality sympathetic with the ESB’s expressive top floors to create a family of tall buildings.

• Forms articulated from all sides to be seen from different long-distance views. Townscape and heritage views have been assessed through consultation process. KEY Buildings rooftops (gradient from lower to higher) Sunlight to properties in Aisgill Avenue Building tops distinctive façade expression

London Plan - Policy

Tall buildings that are of exemplary architectural quality, in the right place, can make a positive contribution to London’s cityscape.

Massing diagram highlighting the steps and distinctive expression of the building tops.

Right: Concept sketch of the building tops.

The Cascades

Aisgill Gardens

Empress State Building (ESB) plot

Table Park

Aisgill Avenue

5.6 Scale & Massing

Key townscape views

Key townscape views identified through consultation with officers and wider stakeholders have influenced the massing and layout of the LBHF Detailed Component.

View 07-09 Brompton Cemetery

This kinetic view along the central axis of the Brompton Cemetery shows the proposals rising above the tree line to the West, peripherally to the axial views. The height and scale of the buildings are incrementally managed, with the taller elements clustered around the existing Empress Place Building.

The Development proposals have evolved to address London Plan Policies D4, Part C of Policy D9, HC3 and LBHF Local Plan Policy DC3. There is no impact upon LVMF views in accordance with London Plan Policy HC4.

View 50 Queens Club

This view shows how height and scale are clustered around the existing taller buildings: the ESB and the apartment building to the right of the view. The residential datum is still the predominant line of the view and the spire of St Andrew’s Fulham Fields church remains prominent in this view (obscured in this image by a temporary tennis structure).

5.6 Scale & Massing

Key townscape views

View 31 Hammersmith Bridge

This view along the Thames Path near Hammersmith Bridge shows the proposals rising above some of the existing buildings on the horizon. Most taller buildings in the masterplan follow the datum of the ESB, forming a cluster of taller buildings around it. WB04 is distinguished in height, materiality and geometry to provide a new urban landmark.

View A21 Putney Bridge

This view shows how the proposals remain mostly within the tree line when approaching LBHF from Putney Bridge. WB04 is only visible through the trees’ branches and its presence does not compete with the All Saints church tower.

5.6 Scale & Massing

Townscape and visual impact assessment

The scale and massing of the LBHF Detailed Component has been informed by iterative visual impact testing and analysis throughout the design development process.

The following are key design principles that mitigate the impact of the proposals in mid-range views and make a positive contribution to the skyline:

• Gradual increments of height from the edges to the centre of the masterplan

• Slender elegant building forms

• Distinctive and articulated building tops

• Complimentary material quality between buildings and their context

View 49 - Ivatt Place

View 29 - Penywern Road, south pavement

View 17 - Collingham Place

Quality

Inside-out design

Developing the plans and the layered façades to achieve residential quality and energy efficiency.

The Earls Court Development aspires to set a new standard in sustainable urban living, aligning with the GLA’s Net Zero Carbon requirements, and surpassing existing environmental policy benchmarks.

The buildings are designed with a fabric-first approach, in line with Passivhaus principles. Both the cross-ventilation facilitated by the layout arrangement, and the controlled solar gain through the façade depth, contribute to reduce overheating. The high u-value and air tightness achieved by the fabric is a further move that seeks to minimise operational carbon.

These multiple aspects allow varying daylight and sunlight to be experienced across the apartments, students’ shared living areas and amenity spaces. 100% habitable dual aspect homes are achieved across the buildings, to improve daylight, ventilation and aspect, delivering high-quality living for all residents.

The buildings have efficient forms with compact cores and short corridors. The service areas within the homes (bathrooms and storage) are located in the depth of the plan to preserve the best levels of daylight and sunlight to the habitable rooms.

Repetitive floorplates to provide good form factor. Steps in the buildings’ massing are limited to the top floors

habitable dual aspect to all residential homes and shared living areas in the student accommodation

Integral external shading provided to limited areas on WB05. Façade layering to provide shading in WB03 and WB04.

Robust and elegant façades will be easily maintained, reducing service costs to residents.

cupboards connected to ambient loop to deliver low carbon energy to homes

SDC Goal - Beyond net zero

Energy efficient buildings from conception are possible through the design quality of the habitable dual aspect plans and the layered façade.

C4.1 New homes should be dual aspect C4.2 The location of the main living and eating spaces, and the main private outside space, should be optimised to make the most of the best views and the orientation.

5.8 Landscape

A celebration of nature

The landscape-led masterplan qualities are embedded and enhanced through the LBHF Detailed Component landscape proposals.

One of the four place pillars of the Earls Court Masterplan is ‘a celebration of nature and its ability to connect and revive’. The design of the landscape proposals seeks to underpin this ambition by embedding nature in different forms and instances into the proposed buildings. It ensures the design is coherent with and amplifies the wider vision.

The proposals will provide amenity spaces for residents of all generations and be capable of hosting small gatherings. The landscape is designed to be accessible and to promote healthy lifestyles.

The new generous landscaped areas will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area but also support local biodiversity, maximise microclimatic comfort, and mitigate the effects of air pollution. The location of these spaces will complement the masterplan’s new green open spaces, providing visual continuity between the two and promoting a new ecology for this urban area. These benefits are designed to improve the quality of life for the residents and the environment.

► Refer to section 6.6 Landscape for more detail

podium

Shared amenity terraces Non-accessible green roofs Private terraces with landscape

Public terrace

Residential courtyard

Doorstep play-space (0-4 years)

SDC Goal - Healthy living

Green spaces will inspire activities that nurture wellbeing. There will be access to play and leisure activities for all ages.

Celebrating and enhancing our natural environment

The podium gardens, the courtyard and the various terraces will be places for the residents to enjoy and connect with nature.

5.9 A Sustainable Response

For people and planet

A sustainable neighbourhood that maximises benefits for people and the planet, with a firm commitment to a renewable energy network.

The Earls Court masterplan has set out an exemplary array of sustainability ambitions that the LBHF Detailed Component aspires to achieve. The shared aim is to deliver innovative buildings and spaces that help to enhance the environment for the new and existing community, encouraging wellbeing, multi-generational social interaction and enabling economic benefits to the local area.

Environmental wellbeing

The qualities and moves described on this page are in line with the Sustainable Design Charter (SDC) for achieving environmental wellbeing.

overview, with the proposals to deliver the SDC highlighted.

Amplifying Nature

Nature is integrated into the buildings at different levels, helping to improve ecology and increase biodiversity, deliver cleaner air, mitigate urban heat island effect, attenuate water and promote healthy living.

Healthy Living

A healthy lifestyle is fostered by connecting with nature, integrating play areas and multi-generational social spaces, providing generous homes with private amenity space and promoting an active lifestyle by prioritising pedestrians and cyclists.

Delivering Cleaner Air

Prioritising green infrastructure and landscaping, helping to reduce pollution with a carlite development and essential vehicular routes carefully segregated from pedestrians and cyclists to minimise conflict and harmful emissions.

Water Neutral

Rainwater harvesting, storage, and, where appropriate, grey water recycling enable a waterneutral new neighbourhood with no potable water used for irrigation.

Circular Economy

Buildings are carefully designed to minimise embodied carbon. Efficient building forms are designed to be flexible where possible and have a long design life. New materials will be carefully selected to minimise waste and enable reuse.

Beyond Net Zero

Low-temperature ambient loop network will deliver a zero carbon energy-efficient solution, coupled with renewable generation, to help deliver a development that is future-proofed to go beyond net zero carbon.

6 Plot Proposals

6.1 LBHF Detailed Component

The previous chapter set out the LBHF Detailed Component response to the masterplan Strategic Framework. The following chapter provides detail on the uses, quantum, scale, massing, design and appearance of the proposed buildings.

The LBHF Detail Component spans two Character Areas; Empress Place and Aisgill Gardens. A third Character Area, The Table is located at the centre of the Site, and facilitates the level change from Empress Place to Aisgill Gardens through the Cascade.

The following sections are divided into 6 parts starting with the summary of LBHF Detailed Component and the plot-wide ground experience, followed by the three building plots, and concluding with a section on the landscape proposals.

LBHF Detailed Component Character Areas

WB05

WB04

WB03

6.1 LBHF Detailed Component

Empress Place Character Area

Empress Place is adjacent to West Brompton station, Empress Place is a key gateway to the Site and includes one of three innovation clusters, a cultural venue and a mix of new homes. The key principles established for the Character Areas by the Control Documents are as follows:

• Creating an innovation cluster with a new commercial address along Lillie Road.

• Extending a vehicle-free, landscaped boulevard with local character into the Site.

• Texturing old and new architectural elements to create a coherent and layered family of buildings.

• Placing a cultural venue anchoring Empress Place at The Table and animating the public realm.

• Framing the boulevard with residential buildings that step towards the centre of the Site.

The Detailed Components’ response to these design principles is set out on the image to the right.

► For more information on the Character Areas refer to the Design and Access Statement Volume 1 (EC.PA.08).

Corner turning - Empress Place Boulevard to the Cascades

podium food and beverage and leisure frontage

A vehicle-free, landscaped boulevard extending the local character into the Site.

6.1 LBHF Detailed Component

Response to Empress Place Character Area

The two-storey podium facing Empress Place Boulevard and the Table Park is a continuation of the existing Empress Place datum. The retail offering along Empress Place Boulevard is a series of lively experiences offering a range of uses at a variety of scales, all accessed from the pedestrianised Boulevard level.

• A large shop frames the corner of the podium to provide an inviting edge to the boulevard.

• Both the student and residential buildings land on the ground, breaking the podium into smaller sections.

• Three food and beverage units create a continuous active frontage between the WB03 and WB04 residential entrances.

• Central to the podium, a leisure use is accessed via an internal stair and lift. Food and beverage / flexible commercial uses continue around the prominent corner, adjacent to the Cascades.

Aisgill Gardens (+4.0m AOD)

Empress Place Boulevard WB03-04 Podium (+8.0m AOD)

WB02 (Outline)

Lillie Sidings

Cascading Pavilions (+8.0 to +4.0m AOD)

View of WB03 and WB04 podium along Empress Place Boulevard

6.1 LBHF Detailed Component

Aisgill Gardens Character Area

Aisgill Gardens is a community green that includes amenities for all ages and connects to the neighbouring Gibbs Green and West Kensington estates. It plays an important role as the primary arrival point from the west. The key principles established for the Character Areas by the Control Documents are as follows:

• Creating a community green stitching together the adjacent residential estates with the new community in an intimate, natural environment.

• Providing a destination play space with sensory landscapes and adventure play.

• Placing pathways for pedestrians and cyclists along the edges.

• Activating building frontages that spill out into the landscape.

• Providing a Pavilion with animated frontages and community uses.

• Creating a prominent location along the key north-south and east-west routes.

The Detailed Components’ response to these design principles is set out on the image to the right

► For more information on the Character Areas refer to the Design and Access Statement Volume 1 (EC.PA.08).

Aisgill Gardens Mews and future relationship with Community Hall (in Outline)

WB05 residential courtyard entrance

A new Community Hub providing animated frontages that spill into the landscape.

WB04

WB03

WB05 -T1

WB05 -T2

6.1 LBHF Detailed Component

Response to Aisgill Gardens Character Area

The Ground Floor of WB05 buildings and the Community Hall (Outline) create an active frontage to the community green of Aisgill Gardens.

The WB05 Ground Floor offers a flexible commercial space and a new Community Hub spilling into the landscape. A gated entrance located between WB05-T1 and WB05-T2 invites residents to enjoy the calm, green residential courtyard. The lower floors are expressed with a green accent colour, tying the buildings together.

In time, Aisgill Mews will connect the new Community Hub on the Ground Floor of WB05-T2 to a potential new Community Hall.

Ground floor accent colour

6.1 LBHF Detailed Component

The Table Character Area

The Table is the centrepiece of the Site and the public open space around which all the Character Areas converge. It unfolds as a sequence of Exhibition Gardens that enhance biodiversity and showcase a variety of planting characters and outdoor uses. The key principles established for the Character Areas by the Control Documents are as follows:

• Creating a destination public open space located at the confluence of key routes.

• Providing an urban park with a variety of natural landscaped spaces and gardens.

• Framing the edges of the public realm with active frontages.

• Adopting a permeable built form allowing access to light on The Table.

• Strategically locating a ‘Pivot’ building as a landmark and wayfinding aid.

• Embracing Site conditions and celebrating the level change through the landscape.

• Exploring opportunities to strengthen biodiversity links through the Site.

The Detailed Components’ response to these design principles is set out on the image to the right.

6.1 LBHF Detailed Component

Response to The Table Character Area

The WB04 podium massing is broken down into cascading pavilion structures which work in unison with the Cascades terraced landscape. They create a picturesque transition between Empress Place Boulevard and Aisgill Gardens.

The ground falls by four metres from Empress Place Boulevard to Aisgill Gardens, which is negotiated with gentle ramps. A series of cafes and restaurants pavilions form the active frontages, and terraces line this cascading landscape.

A public lift integrated into one of the cascading pavilions provides an alternative accessible connection between Aisgill Gardens and Empress Place Boulevard.

The cascading pavilions are a culmination of the WB04 waterfall expression, connecting the building with the landscape.

Cascading Pavilions provide the backdrop to the Cascades

6.1 LBHF Detailed Component

Shared design themes

WB03, WB04 and WB05; four distinct buildings linked by shared design themes.

Meets the ground well

Taller buildings are grounded in a common base that adapts in form and function to create a successful interface with the public realm.

Positive skyline addition

Material changes, building form and sculptured profiling create distinct and elegant additions to the skyline.

Base, middle and top

Legible buildings with a clear base, middle and top; defined by building form and material changes.

Material quality

Using quality materials that both respond to the local character, are appropriate for the building typologies and are sustainable.

Vertical proportions

Buildings which emphasise slenderness through their scale, massing and architectural design.

High quality homes

100% Habitable dual aspect homes with well proportioned, curved balconies.

Concept sketch showing a new family of buildings addressing Empress Place Boulevard, Aisgill Gardens and Table Park

6.1 LBHF Detailed Component

A variety of building typologies

The buildings respond to the Character Areas within which they sit, with smaller scale buildings on Aisgill Gardens stepping up to taller buildings on Empress Place Boulevard looking out over the Table Park.

The proposal is guided by the priorities of the LBHF Local Plan for tall buildings and the London Plan Policies D4 and D9. The LBHF Detailed Component principles are summarised below and detailed in section 5:

• An exemplar of environmental sustainability

• A varied streetscape and a lively Ground Floor experience

• A stepped approach to heights

• Optimal building forms for inside and out

• A positive contribution to the skyline

• A neighbourhood with individual identities

LBHF Detailed Component

Use and quantum

The scheme will provide a total of 462 homes across WB04 & WB05 and 696 student bedrooms in WB03.

WB04 is a 42-storey landmark building containing 278 homes with a mix of studios, 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes, of which 10% are M4(3) wheelchair adaptable. Commercial units and residents amenity spaces are contained within a two-storey podium, fronting Empress Place Boulevard and The Table Character Area.

WB05 will provide 184 homes distributed over two buildings; T1, an 16-storey building and T2, a 9-storey mansion block. A mix of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes of which 10% are M4(3) wheelchair adaptable. A new Community Hub and commercial floorspace is provided at lower levels set within the Aisgill Gardens Character Area.

WB03 comprises of a 34-storey building with 696 student bedrooms with a mix of studios and cluster flats, of which 10% are wheelchair accessible. A retail unit and student amenity spaces are located within a two-storey podium fronting Empress Place Boulevard.

LBHF Detailed Component

Flexible commercial, community and residential spaces

A vibrant Ground Floor experience at a pivot point of the masterplan

The two-storey WB03/WB04 podium along Empress Place Boulevard and the Ground Floor of WB05 to the southern edge of Aisgill Gardens, creates a welcoming active public frontage, animating the two principal routes though the masterplan.

Together, the ground levels of WB03, WB04 and WB05 offer flexible commercial, leisure and community spaces. This is accompanied by residential and student amenities activating the first floor level of the WB03/04 podium.

6.2 Ground Experience

This section sets out the journey through the Ground Floor experience across the LBHF

Detailed Component.

6.2 Ground Experience

WB03 podium

Along Empress Place Boulevard the mixed use podium of WB03 and WB04 is located, with commercial uses creating lively and active frontages, punctuated by the prominent main entrance to the student accommodation building. The podium, set at two-storeys, provides the human scale street frontage through a varied mixed of colours, materials, textures and strong geometric elements.

View of WB03 Podium retail frontage along Empress Place Boulevard

6.2 Ground Experience

WB03 student accommodation entrance

The design proposal features a clear and welcoming entrance that contributes to the animation of Empress Place Boulevard.

The podium recedes to emphasise the building as it comes to ground, revealing a bold and welcoming entrance to the student accommodation. A double-height recessed sequence with a stepped canopy soffit identifies the entrance in a clear and prominent manner, and references local historical precedents.

View of WB03 student accommodation entrance

6.2 Ground Experience

WB04 retail, food and beverage and leisure spaces

The central area of the podium, located between the WB03 and WB04 residential entrances, accommodates a varied retail and food and beverage offer on the Ground Floor and potential leisure use at First Floor level.

The façade expression is carried through from the retail façade to the south part of Empress Place Boulevard, creating a clear active frontage with spill-out areas. Shading is used throughout to create protected environment for people to dwell.

Right: view along Empress Place Boulevard onto the WB04 podium age

6.2 Ground Experience

WB04 residential entrance

A dramatic four-storey entrance to the landmark building in the masterplan.

The entrance is light and transparent, allowing passers-by to visually engage with the waterfall element inside the residential lobby. The vertical expression of the entrance grounds the building on Empress Place Boulevard, and is differentiated from the horizontal expression of the mixed uses around it.

View of WB04 residential building entrance

WB04 residential entrance

6.2 Ground Experience

Corner transition from Empress Place Boulevard to the Cascades

Turning the corner from Empress Place Boulevard to the Cascades, the podium articulates the change in character of the public realm.

An entrance is created at the corner and announced by breaking the horizontals of the podium with a taller glazed panel, as well as a break in the horizontal canopy. Beyond the corner, the cladding changes to express the falling water effect of the Cascades.

View looking south towards the WB04 podium turning the corner from the Cascades down Empress Place Boulevard

6.2 Ground Experience

WB04 Cascading Pavilions

The cascading pavilions respond to the natural and playful character of the Cascades.

The podium form changes to address the landscape, creating a series of pavilions recessed from one another which accommodate food and beverage and flexible commercial spaces on the Ground Floor, and residents’ amenities on the First Floor.

Each pavilion has at least two frontages, with the corners expressed through taller glazed panels and a break in the horizontal canopy. The cascading pavilions continue the WB04 waterfall concept all the way through to the Cascades.

View looking onto the cascading pavilions from the Cascades.

6.2 Ground Experience

Aisgill Gardens frontages and uses

The Ground Floor encourages permeability between the existing and proposed context.

The grow gardens and Aisgill Gardens Mews provide additional landscape areas, helping to activate the spaces around the new Community Hub. The grow gardens build on the success of the existing horticultural groups that have been established through the Community Hub. Acting as a considerate neighbour, the new Community Hub and flexible commercial space provide an active backdrop to Aisgill Gardens, encouraging access from Aisgill Avenue whilst stitching onto the existing context.

View of WB05 courtyard entrance from Aisgill Gardens

6.2 Ground Experience

Ground Experience

WB05 community uses

The new Community Hub builds on the success of the existing Community Hub.

The new Community Hub will be a facility for both the new and existing communities and seeks to stitch in to the local area, building off the success of the existing Community Hub by bringing people together. A cafe will activate Aisgill Gardens Mews, and will be able to serve the Community Hall for a range of events that could be hosted there. The horticultural kitchen will work in conjunction with the grow gardens and café, promoting education around healthy eating and sustainably sourced local produce. Creative rooms and a flexible space will activate Aisgill Gardens to the north, with each space having the ability to be sub-divided, ensuring the adaptability and longevity of the facility.

Ground Experience

The western elevation

The western elevation faces the Empress State Building and Service Access Road, creating a pedestrianfriendly environment that is largely open to the sky.

The podium façade has a strong horizontal expression, acting as a counter to the verticality of the residential buildings, providing a robust and timeless aesthetic. Servicing and deliveries for the LBHF Detailed Component is via the Service Access Road, whilst the Lower-Ground residential entrances open up onto a pedestrian route. Vertical fins are deployed as a shading device, as well as a tool to veil the air intake to various plant rooms.

WB03-04 Podium Service Access Road (+4.0m AOD)

WB01 / 02 (Outline)

Lillie Sidings (+4.0m AOD)

Lillie Road The Cascades (+8.0m AOD to +4.0m AOD)

South-Western Elevation

Perspective views of the Lower Ground Service Access Road. The white dashed line denotes the future Empress State Building boundary

Lift

6.2 Ground Experience

Service Access Road

Lower Ground Experience (+4m)

Retail servicing and refuse collection for WB03 and WB04, and WB05 is via the Service Access Road at the Lower Ground level. Refuse collection from WB05-T2 is via Aisgill Gardens.

The Service Access Road is both naturally ventilated and naturally lit, with the majority of it being open to the sky.

Entrances to the residential buildings are also provided at the Lower Ground level for blue badge users, and taxi drop off / collection. Further detail is provided in sections 6.3 - 6.5.

6.2 Ground Experience

LBHF Detailed Component Lower Ground Floor (+4.0m AOD)

The LBHF Detailed Component proposals serve to address the significant level changes across the western side of the Site, from Aisgill Gardens and the Service Access Road (+4.0m AOD), through to Empress Place Boulevard (+8.0m AOD) and the Table Park (+12.5m AOD).

• Lower Ground Floor (generally +4.0m AOD): is the main level of Aisgill Gardens and the WB05 courtyard garden from which both WB05 T1 and T2 are accessed.

• The Lower Ground Floor is also the main level for servicing the buildings and accommodates most of the required plant area.

6.2 Ground Experience

LBHF Detailed Component Ground Floor (+8.0m)

Empress Place Boulevard level

The shared WB03/04 podium occupies three levels - only two of which are visible from Empress Place Boulevard and Table Park. This split in levels allows for a two-front-door approach with blue badge, taxi drop off / collection and service access at +4.0m AOD and a people-first boulevard at +8.0m AOD.

• Ground Floor (generally +8.0m AOD): Active frontages on Empress Place Boulevard, accommodate retail, food and beverage and flexible commercial uses, together with the main residential lobbies and separate access to cycle stores.

• The cascading pavilions visually facilitate the level change from Empress Place Boulevard (+8.0m AOD) to Aisgill Gardens (+4.0m AOD). The Ground Floor levels of these pavilions align with the landscaped plateaus of the Cascades, to provide consistent level access into the buildings.

Ground Experience

LBHF Detailed Component First Floor (+12.9m)

Amenity level for WB03/04 and residential level for WB05

• First Floor (generally +12.9m AOD): Accessed through the residential and commercial cores, and accommodates most of the residents’ shared amenity and main flexible commercial space. Views towards the Table Park are provided from the podium garden.

• The typical floors of WB05 are seen here, with eight habitable dual aspect homes, set around a central core.

6.3 WB03

6.3.1 Summary of Plot Proposal

High quality student accommodation with excellent shared amenities

The WB03 building provides purpose built student accommodation of 696 bedrooms and associated amenities, with commercial space at Ground Floor.

The student accommodation compromises a mix of studio rooms and cluster flats with each cluster flat consisting of between six and seven en-suite student rooms and one shared kitchen/dining room. 35% of rooms are affordable and 10% are designed as wheelchair user dwellings.

Amenities at the top of the building include a shared kitchen / dining room on the 31st floor and two roof terraces on the 32nd floor with views to the east and west.

Amenities in the podium include amphitheatrestyle seating in the lobby, a lounge, study spaces, a courtyard, gym and studio, games rooms and an events kitchen/dining room which can be booked by the students.

Right view of WB03 from the Table Park

Principles

Response to masterplan Strategic Framework

The design is based on a set of key concepts that respond to the masterplan framework.

1. A destination landscape

Providing green space, both accessible for amenity, and inaccessible for biodiversity

2. A range of building typologies

Expressing the social parts of the building — the shared kitchen/dining spaces — as distinct elements and giving these spaces the most privileged position in the plan

3. Stitching the site into its context

Cranking the plan in at the sides to minimise overlooking and to optimise views out from student bedrooms

4. A stepped approach to heights

Stepping back the top of the building to create an elegant skyline

► A destination landscape

Provision of green space 1

► Stitching the site into its context

Optimising views and daylight 3

► A range of building typologies

Expression of shared social space 2

► A stepped approach to heights

Creating an elegant skyline 4

Skyline and silhouette

The top of the building features multiple set backs and two accessible terraces

The proposed design has been developed in order to meet a range of considerations

1. Creation of accessible roof terraces on the east and west sides of the building

2. Three other sets of biodiverse terraces that serve to step back the massing

3. An expressed top-of-building form, with a curved bullnose profile that is sympathetic to the profile of the shared kitchen/dining spaces.

4. Use of contrasting slate blue colour to express the top of the building as a continuation of the shared kitchen/dining spaces.

Below: Top of building view

Right: Top of building view

WB03

Scale and Mass

Overall composition

Part of a ‘family of forms’ with its own personality

The overall form is intended to be sympathetic to the adjacent WB04 (vertical planes, curved elements, stepped top), but also to have its own characteristics (expressed bull-nose; contrasting colour element; shadow gaps to express form).

Ground view of WB03 from Table Park

Aerial view of building cluster

6.3.4 General Arrangement

Programme distribution

The building features studio and cluster flat accommodation, with student amenities primarily located in the podium

1. The main entrance is on Empress Place Boulevard, where amphitheatre style steps lead up to student amenities at First Floor level.

2. A typical floor is comprised of studios with kitchenettes and cluster flats with shared cluster kitchens.

3. The upper storeys feature studio bedrooms, a shared living/dining space, shared roof terraces, and an events kitchen/dining room which can be booked by the students.

General Arrangement

Main lobby

The lobby is a generous and active double height space, featuring a curved timber clad feature wall. To the north side is the reception desk and route to the lift lobby. To the south are the amphitheatre steps and seats. There is also a deliveries room and accessible toilet.

WB03 6.3.4 General Arrangement

Amphitheatre style seating

The entrance features amphitheatre style seating that leads up to Level 1

It is vital that the lobby feels welcoming, relaxed, and a place where students feel comfortable to dwell. To realise this, a seating-stairs feature that leads from the lobby to the Level 1 amenity level has been introduced to this space. This will be a place to socialise primarily, but can also function as a place for informal lectures, and presentations, and for events.

View looking up towards level 1 showing amphitheatre seating

View looking towards the reception desk and showing the door to the lift lobby

Bottom of the amphitheatre seating with reception desk in the background

View looking down the amphitheatre seating showing the main lobby entrance

General Arrangement

Level 1 student amenities:

A mix of amenity spaces are configured around a central courtyard creating a visual amenity, and bringing additional natural light into the spaces.

Level 1 of the podium houses most of the student amenity programme. On the eastern side of Level 1, an informal lounge area with open plan study areas and places for students to socialise, looks out over Empress Place Boulevard and the Table Park. Further study rooms are located around a sunken courtyard garden creating an aura of calm. On the western side of Level 1, there is a student gym and studio, and to the north of the building core, there are a series of flexible games rooms.

(Note that the amenity configuration as shown is indicative and will ultimately be informed by the operator.)

6.3.4 General Arrangement

Level 1 student amenities:

Spaces enjoy views to the east and west and natural light from the courtyard

Amphitheatre: the amphitheatre and steps serve to link the lobby at ground level to the amenities at Level 1.

Student Lounge: the lounge includes a selfserve tea/coffee point, cafe style seating, armchairs and sofas for relaxation, and informal study areas. This area is flanked by windows to the park and to the courtyard.

Central Courtyard: this open-to-sky space brings light to the lounge, study areas and gym. It will have limited direct sunlight and so is intended as Japanese-style courtyard with shade-tolerant shrubs for visual focus rather than use by residents.

Study Rooms: there is a mix of individual and group study rooms. These are arranged along the north and south sides of the courtyard in order to provide a good amount of natural light.

Gym: the gymnasium and studio space are positioned to the west of the amenity floor and also have access to daylight from the courtyard. There are adjacent changing rooms and toilets.

Games Room: there are a series of games rooms within the footprint of the student building. These rooms are not intended to have natural daylight (reference image).

Arrangement

Cycle storage

Cycle storage is accessible from Empress Place Boulevard adjacent to the main entrance

The entrance to the cycle store is on Empress Place Boulevard to the north of the main student accommodation entrance, with the rear part of the building accommodating cycle storage, which is accessed via protected lobbies. As well as the main cycle parking at grade, additional cycle parking is located on an upper level containing 2-tier cycle stackers, and is accessible

up a short run of stairs with an adjacent cycle channel.

There are over 500 bicycle spaces. 80% of which are 2-tier cycle stackers 15% in standard Sheffield stands and 5% in accessible Sheffield stands.

6.3.4 General Arrangement

Typical floor plans

The typical floorplan is comprised of two types of student accommodation: studios and cluster flats. The studios have their own cooking facilities whilst the cluster flats are comprised of en-suite bedrooms with a shared kitchen. Levels 2 to 9 has 24 units per floor: 10 studios and 14 en-suite bedrooms. There are two stair cores, four lifts and a cleaner’s cupboard on each typical floor.

Studios: rooms with bathrooms, beds, wardrobes, a work desk and a kitchenette with hob, sink and refrigerator.

Cluster flats: six/seven en-suite bedrooms with a shared kitchen/dining space. The shared kitchen/ dining spaces are positioned at the nose of the plan with excellent views out to the east and west. The en-suite bedrooms have bathrooms, beds, wardrobes and a work desk.

Accessible bedrooms are located at the kink in the plan and benefit from additional area, two windows, and easy access to the lift core.

General Arrangement

Typical floor plans

To provide a variety of bedroom sizes and accessible units, there are small variations in the typical floor plan within the building.

General Arrangement

Typical cluster kitchen

Cluster kitchens are placed in the most privileged locations of the building with views to the east and west.

Each cluster of either six or seven en-suite bedrooms share a kitchen-dining-living room. These cluster kitchens have two kitchen runs with sink, hob, oven, and fridge. The rooms are positioned at the eastern and western ends of the building, and benefit from built-in bench seating under the feature windows from where the excellent views can be enjoyed.

General Arrangement

Upper level floor plans

The top floors of the building are dedicated to studios, as well as a private hire dining amenity space and access to two communal roof terraces.

Levels 29 to 30 have a range of studio types of varying size, some featuring two windows and a wider, shallower plan.

Level 31 also has studios of varying sizes, including larger premium studios, and a shared dining space accessible to all students. Where the building is set back, there are inaccessible green roof terraces at levels 29 and 31.

WB03

General Arrangement

Upper level floor plans

Level 32 is the highest occupied floor. It features four premium studios and two communal roof terraces. The perimeter of these terraces feature generous planting in purpose built planters, as well as feature built-in bench seating.

Situated at the eastern and western ends of the building, they afford dramatic views across the London cityscape. A high glazed screen helps mitigate the effect of wind; and a high railing addresses the risk of falling from height.

Level 32 showing roof terraces

Large studio Storage

Amenity: Private dining at level 31

The private hire dining space enjoys spectacular views over Table Park.

On Level 31, there is a shared kitchen-living-dining space that can be privately hired by all students. The dining room faces east and benefits from spectacular views over the Table Park and London skyline. The space features a kitchen, informal seating area, dining area, and can be hired by residents for group study sessions or for special occasions.

6.3.5

Quality of Accommodation

Typical studio

Studios are designed to maximise daylight to working areas and to provide a good quantum of storage space.

The typical studio provides a double bed, a generous sized desk, storage, a kitchenette and an en-suite bathroom. There are typically 10 studios per floor. The typical studio is 2021sqm, but there is a range of studio sizes from 17 to 28sqm.

Each room is ventilated by a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system with exposed concrete soffits for thermal mass and an openable window panel for purge venting and user comfort. Desks are positioned towards the window to maximise access to daylight. The kitchenette is positioned towards the window for access to daylight and for fire safety.

View towards window with desk to the right and kitchenette to the left Note: Final fitout specification subject to selected operator requirements

Quality of Accommodation

Typical studio

Attractive and functional layouts with good quality storage.

Storage is particularly important in student rooms. Typical student rooms include underdesk drawers on both sides and high-level storage, both open and closed. The kitchenette features a generous provision of space for cooking facilities. The wardrobe is adjacent to the kitchenette and has full-height hanging space and drawers.

Quality of Accommodation

Typical en-suite bedroom

En-suite bedrooms feature work desks adjacent to windows and good levels of storage.

The typical en-suite provides a double bed, a generous sized desk, storage, and an en-suite bathroom and is 13.7sqm. There are typically seven en-suite bedrooms per cluster flat and two cluster flats per floor. There is no kitchenette in the en-suite bedroom, but each bedroom has

access to a shared kitchen/dining space. As in the studios, each room is ventilated by a MVHR system with exposed concrete soffits for thermal mass, and an openable window panel for purge venting and user comfort. Desks are positioned towards the window to maximise access to daylight.

View towards window with desk to the right

Quality of Accommodation

Typical en-suite bedroom

Attractive and functional layouts with good quality storage.

The en-suite bedrooms in the cluster flats feature similar good quality storage to the studios. In addition to the full length wardrobe and under desk drawers, there are long runs of high level storage, with both enclosed and open shelf space.

Quality of Accommodation

Accessible room provision

In line with the London Plan 2021 as per the Practice Note, ‘Wheelchair Accessible and Adaptable Student Accommodation’, 10% of the bedrooms will be wheelchair accessible. This is in accordance with British Standard BS83002:2018 Design of an accessible and inclusive built environment.

The accessible bedrooms have been provided as both studio rooms and part of the cluster flats. The accessible rooms are located in the kink of the building so are larger than a typical studio, benefiting from two windows and located in close proximity to the lift core, minimising travel distances.

Accessible room en-suite

Accessible room studio

Accessible room en-suite

Quality of Accommodation

Accessible layouts

The following features are the minimum access provisions required by Building Regulations requirement M1 for sleeping accommodation, which the proposed rooms have been designed to. Further design development will continue to ensure full compliance with these standards:

Entrance doors - have a minimum clear opening width of 800mm and 300 mm nib on the leading edge.

Internal circulation - bedrooms allow wheelchair users to manoeuvre around and use the facilities in the room.

Internal doors - have a clear opening width of 800mm with a 300mm nib on the leading edge

Bed - bedrooms allow for a wheelchair user to manoeuvre at the side of a bed, then transfer independently to it.

Sanitary facilities - bedrooms have en-suite wheelchair-accessible shower facilities.

Kitchenette - at least a part of the working surface - that includes a sink and a hob - is at 850mm above the floor with a clear space beneath at least 700mm above the floor.

Additionally, the accessible rooms will provide a wheelchair storage and transfer spacewhere a wheelchair user could change from an outdoor wheelchair to an indoor wheelchair if preferred.

Perspective view of accessible studio

Note: Final fitout specification subject to selected operator requirements

WB03 6.3.6 Façade and Materials

References

Contemporary schemes referenced with articulated and sustainable façades

The materiality of the building is designed to evoke a timeless appearance. This strategy is informed with reference to contemporary schemes that have expressed pilasters and sun shades, and that emphasise a mineral expression of solidity.

Reference images for materials, colours and finishes

Gallery of Tegel Quartier, Max Dudler

Zikawei Library, DCA

Hegenheimerstrasse, Itten+Brechbuehl

Façade and Materials

Material samples: architectural pre-cast panels

The façade is clad with architectural pre-cast panels in two colours and finishes

In order to achieve this timeless look, an architectural pre-cast module including pilasters and the spandrel panel has been utilised. The bedrooms and studios feature a light stone colour. The cluster kitchens and the top of the building are in a contrasting slate blue colour.

Material samples: metal cladding

Metal cladding in two shades is used for fenestration and ventilation panels

The standard architectural pre-cast module has pre-installed windows and side panels. This fenestration is in a darker shade than the architectural pre-cast panel and has a satin finish. Against the beige architectural pre-cast panel, the aluminium fenestration is coloured a dark bronze. Against the blue architectural pre-cast panel, the aluminium fenestration is dark grey.

6.3.6

The building is considered as a composition of different façade types. At the lowest level is a double height lobby. Above the podium level there is a lower zone with window types that accentuate the vertical pilasters. The middle zone has the typical window type with architectural pre-cast sun shades and ribbed spandrels. At the top of the building there is a second zone of vertical emphasis. The top of the building features a stepped-in level, accessible roof terraces and curved lift overrun screening. 6.3 WB03

Façade and Materials

Elevation: division into zones

The mass of the building is expressed as a series of vertical zones

Set back floors with larger studio types

Middle zone with typical windows with sun-shades and ribbed spandrels in architectural pre-cast concrete

Lower zone with over-clad spandrels (similar to the high level zone)

Boulevard zone with double height lobby expression

Lift overrun, BMU screen and setback bedroom on upper levels

Upper level window types that accentuate the vertical with overclad spandrels

Isometric view of top of WB03 building

Elevation of top of WB03

Elevation of WB03

Façade and Materials

Bay study: typical window

Using deep reveals and solar shading to limit overheating

Most of the en-suite bedrooms and studios consist of a typical repeating façade bay. This is comprised of several elements as follows: pilasters in textured architectural pre-cast concrete; a sunshade and a ribbed architectural pre-cast spandrel panel; ribbed metal clad panels that flank the windows one of which is an openable panel for purge ventilation. The studios have ventilation louvres for the MVHR in the panel opposite the purge ventilation panel.

Architectural pre-cast concrete sunshade, light beige colour

Architectural pre-cast concrete ribbed panel, light beige colour

Ribbed openable ventilation panel, dark bronze colour

Architectural pre-cast concrete pilaster, light beige colour Fixed window

Detail elevation view of typical windows

Interior

Façade and Materials

Top of building and bull-nose materiality

The top of the building is a slate blue colour with a bull-nose form. The bull-nose form is an expression of the cluster kitchens and features a gently curved profile, recessed from the orthogonal bedroom façades. It is coloured in slate blue to further distinguish it from the bedrooms. The form is reflected in the accessible roof terraces and the top of building.

The top of the building also features a second window type that de-emphasises the sun shade, and instead emphasises the vertical elements. This type is also used at the base of the building.

6.4 WB04

6.4.1 Summary of Plot Proposal

WB04 Residential building

High quality homes with shared amenities, integrating nature at height

WB04 is the tallest building in the masterplan, a landmark for the site and West London. It is located at a pivotal point in the scheme, marking the end of Empress Place Boulevard from the south and the start of the cascading landscape towards Aisgill Gardens to the west and Lillie Sidings Square to the north.

The building comprises 278 homes and totals 36,355 sqm GIA (including residential, nonresidential, and ancillary uses). The residential levels accommodate a mixture of home typologies from smaller studios to larger 3-beds. The homes are of high-quality design, provided with habitable dual aspect layouts, and benefit from either external or internal private amenity according to environmental conditions.

The residents’ shared amenities are provided primarily at Level 1 with additional spaces provided at level 39. At Level 1, a mixture of social spaces such as a lounge, working areas and gym, are provided which benefit from direct access onto a landscaped terrace and grow gardens, with views over the Cascades. At Level 2, the residents will have access to a generous biodiverse landscaped podium garden that overlooks and compliments the Table Park. At levels 39 and 40, a double-height conservatory and private dining area with two terraces bring activation, visibility, and nature to the very top of the building.

Right: Perspective view of WB04 from the north-west, looking across the Cascades

Principles

Design concept

The proposals have been informed by the masterplan’s approach to water and nature-based solutions, which has evolved in response to the Site’s history and the sustainability aspirations.

Chapter 5 introduces the water and nature approach within the LBHF Detailed Component. Water is fundamental to the success of the landscape-led masterplan. The Earls Court Development recognises nature-based solutions can improve air quality, reduce wind speeds, foster comfortable amenity, reduce the heat island effect, enhance biodiversity and improve well-being.

The new landmark building is embeds the concept of water with the form and façades celebrating the expression of cascading water. The role water plays is intertwined with all the sustainable and natural benefits of the development.

Sketch diagram of the water and nature concept for WB04

Concept diagram

The residents’ conservatory: making social connections in nature

Podium gardens finding meaningful moments of tranquillity

Distinctive façade expression: waterfall motif reinforcement

6.4 WB04 6.4.2 Principles

Design concept

The Petal Plan

The new homes were designed from both inside out, and outside in. Designing from the inside out drove the plan to learn from the different characteristics of petal, allowing it to optimise its performance and appearance.

The Petal Plan’s organic form not only allows for 100% habitable dual aspect for all homes regardless of their size and orientation, but also for varying daylight and sunlight to be perceived from across each room – a unique experience of high-quality vertical living.

The Petal Plan geometry helps to simultaneously articulate unity across the floorplate and individuality of each element - achieving both the feeling of community and a sense of solitude

The Petal Plan results in a vertically articulated form, contributing towards a strong sense of slenderness and symmetry when it comes to addressing the immediate and long-distanced context.

concept sketch

The Cascading Waterfall

The Cascading Waterfall concept links and celebrates the significance of the top of the building, a new beacon for the West London skyline, with the bottom of the building, the generous residential entrance from Empress Place Boulevard. The reference to water is created through the formal and material expression, with glazed bays and reflective metal tubes. The landscaped terraces around them emphasise the reference to nature in these key areas. The inner bundles’ expression connects these two areas vertically, carrying through the curved forms and reflective tubes.

Elegantly lit at night, by day the façade reflects the colours of the sky in harmony with its environment. This façade expression emphasises the distinctive building form derived from the Petal Plan and the slender vertical elevations.

The Petal Plan concept sketch

Right: Integrating nature from top to ground, concept sketch.

Waterfall

6.4 WB04

6.4.3 Scale

and Mass

A landmark building embedded in its context

Negotiating the varied scales of an evolving neighbourhood

WB04 is located within the masterplan at a crucial intersection between the east-west and the north-south routes. This pivotal location means that the building design needs to negotiate and anchor different transitions in scale and character.

The image to the top right shows the transition from the neighbouring low-rise West Kensington Estate and Community Hall (Outline), to the midrise of WB05 T2 and T1 to WB04. The steps in the massing and the gradual change from heavier to lighter materiality of WB04 help this transition.

The image to bottom right shows the vertical expression of the buildings, landing on Empress Place Boulevard to mark the entrances of WB03 and WB04. The horizontal expression of the mixed-use podium that provides the streetscape datum to the landscaped boulevard.

Above: Diagram of the landmark within the Illustrative Masterplan

Right (top): Elevational view from left to right

Right (bottom): View of southern approach from Empress Place Boulevard

A new beacon for West London’s skyline

A landmark building within the Earls Court Development

WB04 has a striking silhouette that is expressed equally to the east and the west.

Its visual impact has been assessed from different viewpoints, being mindful of the most sensitive views, but also consciously expressing the building as a landmark. This will be the tallest building in the masterplan and in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham.

The colour tone of the building reflects the ever changing sky condition, and the appearance changes as day turns to night. The top of the building, and the inner bundles are unified in expression, and include semi-reflective tubes and lighting across the façades.

Massing articulation

Conceptual development of a distinctive building form.

Through the development of the design, WB04’s form has been refined from the original masterplan parameter block into an elegant, slender, and articulated building form. The developed massing is articulated through the following key steps:

1. Eroding the block’s corners introduces opportunities for 100% habitable dual aspect homes.

2. Softly curved edges are used on all the corners to make a smooth transition between the

different faces. The Petal Plan extrusion is both the strength and the essence of the proposal.

3. Stepped terraces reduce the massing and shape the top of the building, giving a distinctive silhouette.

4. Balancing the base with a prominent fourstorey recessed entrance.

5. Cascading water-like expression to the revealed inner faces of the massing, flowing from top to bottom.

6. Rounded corners of the outer bundles are sculpted to create external or internal amenity space.

7. Smooth curved edges soften the top edge of each façade.

The proposed massing form and architectural expression are defined by their verticality, achieved through the continuity of the curved piers and the creation of slender bundles.

The main body of the building’s architectural expression is simple, repetitive, and carefully detailed. In contrast, the receding massing reveals a more expressive design for the upper levels, inner bundles, and entrance, with more reflective and lighter materials.

The softly curving edges terminate the top of each façade smoothly, easing the transition between the terraces and roofs, creating the illusion of the building disappearing into the sky.

Top of the building

Steps in the massing create a unique silhouette

The building’s top nine floors are gradually recessed, reducing the mass of the building to create an elegant silhouette on the skyline. The steps provide a mix of private terraces, green roofs, and shared terraces for the residents.

The massing steps follow the natural termination of each of the building’s vertical bundles, from outer to inner ones, revealing a delicately shaped volume in the centre. The revealed volume and the articulated steps make the top of the building distinguishable on the skyline, providing it with the character of an urban landmark.

The reduction in massing is reinforced by the façade materiality, which changes from stone-like solid materials to lighter, more transparent, and reflective materials.

► Refer to section 6.4.6 for further description of the materiality

View from south (view from north similair)

View from east (view from west similair)

Evolution of the stepping form to provide symmetry between east and west and create a slender profile.

View from the north-east corner (view from south-west similair)

6.4.4

Housing Quality

Residential entrance

A sculpted, layered entrance sequence introduced nature at Ground Floor.

The dramatic 4-storey waterfall expression marks the entrance to WB04, welcoming residents into a generous, warm and inviting double-height space.

The entrance space is a unique moment along the Empress Place Boulevard. The quality and movement of the façade not only highlights the prominence of the residential entrance, but also invites the public to look into the lobby and enjoy the lush planting and art installation as part of the Empress Place Boulevard environment. This experience contributes to the sense of wonder and optimism created in the masterplan.

The residents will transition from the busy environment of Empress Place Boulevard to a calm entrance lobby and onto their more intimate homes. Layers of nature and references to the waterfall are incorporated throughout the progression that starts on the street, continues through to the entrance hall, into the amenity and concludes in the private home.

The aim is to create a sense of arrival with a domestic and warm feel with nature as a key component of the welcoming experience. Inspiration has been taken from art deco buildings, to evoke the elegance and refinement of the entrances.

Top: A axonometric view of WB04 residential entrance Bottom: Eltham Palace entrance hall and gardens Inspiration images

Entrances: nature and light

Outside-in: the illusion of falling water

The water reference is incorporated into the internal wall that wraps around the core which could incorporate an art installation at both the Ground Floor and the Lower Ground Floor lobbies. The art installation and lush planting bring the illusion of the waterfall into the building, visible from outside through the transparent façades at Empress Place Boulevard (+8.0m AOD) and the Service Access Road (+4.0m AOD).

Ground Floor Entrance (+8.0m AOD)

Lower Ground Floor (+4.0m AOD)

Inside-out design

Residential experience: intimacy and generosity to create inviting homes

The building’s distinctive form is derived from the “petal plan”, designed with an inside-out approach to maximise habitable dual-aspect homes. The design ensures good levels of daylight and cross-ventilation, avoiding any single-aspect, north facing homes.

All homes are generously sized, often exceeding the Housing Design Standards (London Planning Guidance 2023). The allocation and design of the different home types have been thoroughly reviewed and benchmarked, and future flexibility has also been allowed. The approach to the internal layouts is consistent: living rooms are positioned in the outer façade to get the best daylight and views, balconies are positioned in the corner with panoramic views, balconies shade bedrooms, and services are allocated in the deep part of the plan.

Residents’ amenity

First Floor: Indicative layout

6.4.5 Layout and GA

The Petal Planmaximised dual aspect

100% habitable dual aspect homes based on an interpretation of the GLA’s LPG definition*

The building accommodates:

• 45% GLA dual aspect dwellings

• 55% Habitable Dual Aspect dwellings

• There are no full single-aspect dwellings

*Definition of dual aspect (Housing Design Standards LPG 2023):

“A dual aspect dwelling is one with opening windows on two external walls, which may be on opposite sides of a dwelling or on adjacent sides of a dwelling (...) The design of the dual aspect dwelling must enable passive/natural ventilation across the whole dwelling.”

“Dwellings that have opening windows on two adjacent sides can only be defined as dual aspect if the window opening/s are situated at least halfway down the depth of the dwelling.”

HABITABLE DUAL

1-beds and studios second aspect constitutes more than 50% of the depth of the dwelling’s habitable rooms (excluding bathrooms, storage and corridors)

2-beds and 3-beds second aspect constitutes at least 75% of the depth of the whole dwelling

Diagram of dual aspect criteria from the Housing Design Standards LPG

6.4.5 Layout and GA

The key benefits of the Petal Plan:

Maximises natural ventilation

The plan optimises passive design by prioritising natural ventilation. The position of the windows on adjacent sides offers opportunities for cross ventilation within the homes and, in several instances, within individual rooms.

Reduces overheating

Overheating is reduced through cross ventilation, the position of the balconies in front of bedrooms, and the protrusion of vertical piers and horizontal cornices around the windows.

Maximises daylight and views

The layout increases good access to daylight within homes, thereby reducing the operational energy. Living areas have access to the outer faces of the building with balconies to the side to achieve the highest levels of daylight and the best views in at least two directions.

Minimises operational carbon

Operational carbon is minimised by adopting a fabric-first approach and carefully planning apartment layouts and façade design.

6.4.5 Layout and GA

Typical layouts

The proposed development provides studios, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom homes. Homes are designed in line with the following key principles to deliver exceptional quality:

• 100% Habitable Dual Aspect as per described interpretation of the London Plan Guidance June 2023. This allows for cross ventilation, good levels of daylight, and optimal views.

• Circulation and non-habitable spaces are located in the depth of the plan.

• Balconies extend the living room. All balconies are located in the outer corners and benefit from a dual aspect.

Typical layouts for the residential dwellings shown here.

Layouts with larger outdoor amenity

A variety of 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom homes are provided at different locations in the building, where homes can benefit from larger outdoor private amenities. The incorporation of larger balconies and terraces allows potential for more greening and landscaping in the building, if provided by the residents.

3-bed with terrace

Ground Floor entrance and lobby

The main residential entrance to WB04 is a distinctive moment within the experience of Empress Place Boulevard. The main lobby offers lounge space and concierge services.

The ventilated corridor connects with the lift lobby, vertical circulation, and some support uses. Two fire escape stairs discharge separately onto the Empress Place Boulevard. The building is served by three passenger lifts, and one enlarged lift for moving in / building works. Each of the passenger lift also double up as fire fighting and evacuation lifts.

Layout and GA

Lower Ground Floor entrance and lobby

An alternative entrance is provided on the Lower Ground Floor, from the Service Access Road.

The Lower Ground Floor lobby is accessed by a pedestrian route along the Service Access Road. This lobby is smaller in scale and serves as a route to collect parcels from the delivery room and to access the blue-badge parking and taxi drop-off located adjacent to the entrance. This entrance is used for all deliveries (including supermarket and takeaway).

The waterfall feature is extended to the Lower Ground Floor lobby and is visible from the outside.

Residential cycle store

The residential cycle store is accessed from Empress Place Boulevard (+8.0m AOD). The cycle store is located on a mezzanine level with ramps leading up from the entrance. Overall, 472 cycle spaces are provided, with the following split, in accordance to the London Plan 2021:

2

Residential amenity

Level 1 of the podium accommodates residents’ amenities. The indicative layout includes a lounge space, various types of workspace (including open plan workspace and smaller meeting rooms), a residents’ gym, and access to a green residents’ terrace overlooking the Cascades.

The Flexible Social Space and Residents’ Lounge

The flexible social space located immediately above the entrance lobby, overlooking the Table Park and the waterfall lobby feature. Organised in a series of small-scale spaces of different characters, it provides residents with small meeting spaces, intimate workspaces, or a shortterm space to dwell.

The residents’ lounge has three views—towards the Table Park, Empress Place Boulevard and onto the Cascades. It is organised around a communal coffee bar and has direct access onto the residents’ terrace.

The Workspace and Gym

The residents’ workspace benefits from an open-plan arrangement as well as smaller meeting rooms and focus rooms. A folding partition divides the workspace area from the lounge space, allowing residents to use the two spaces separately or together. The workspace also has direct access to the communal terrace overlooking the Cascades.

The gym is located at the southwest elevation of the residents’ amenity and includes a more traditional open-plan gym space as well as a studio. It benefits from direct access to the residents’ terrace, where exercise can extend to the open air.

The Terrace and Grow Garden

Residents can access a landscaped podium with lawn, a grow garden, seating areas and potential water feature.

Layout and GA

Level 2

The interface with the podium landscape

Level 2 provides the podium garden level and contains the first floor of residential accommodation. The landscaped terrace comprises outdoor amenity for the residents, including a lawn, seating areas, a potential water feature, and play areas. Access to the external amenity is from the building’s west corner, from where paved paths guide the residents to the different areas. A second means of escape is provided at the western edge.

Some of the homes benefit from level access to the podium gardens from their private amenity. The homes facing Empress Place Boulevard on levels 2 and 3 have a unique façade design integrated into the building’s entrance expression.

► Refer to Section 6.6 Landscape

View from Empress Place Boulevard

6.4 WB04

6.4.5

Layout and GA

Levels 3 to 32

The typical plan of the building is based on a square of approximately 35x35m with two central axes. Symmetry has been fundamental to creating a building form that addresses all orientations without hierarchy.

Within the overarching symmetry, however, there is differentiation to accommodate a wide variety of flat types (including studios, 1-beds, 2-beds, and 3-beds) and to respond to different environmental conditions.

The plan accommodates nine homes per core at lower levels (L2-L15) and eight homes per core at mid levels (L16-L32). The building’s core is designed with four lifts and two staircases, one of which forms part of the fire-protected shaft. The lobby and corridors are mechanically ventilated.

The steps in the plan provide 100% habitable dual aspect homes. Private amenity areas are provided, as either external corner balconies or internalised areas with panoramic windows, where microclimatic testing showed that external balconies would be uncomfortable.

6.4 WB04

6.4.5

Layout and GA

Levels 33 to 38

Larger 3-bedroom homes are located in the top levels of the building, where the massing steps and extended private amenity terraces are provided.

Where homes do not have access to a private terrace or a balcony, an area of internalised amenity is incorporated within the home, as part of the living areas.

The core layout remains consistent across all residential levels. This approach allows for flexibility to accommodate future variations in the internal layouts, with no reduction of the building services or vertical transport provision.

6.4.5 Layout and GA

Elevation design

The following concepts have informed the design of the façades:

• Symmetry on the east-west and the northsouth axis to provide an egalitarian view of the landmark from the surrounding boroughs.

• Ground-middle-top differentiation to address the different scales of an urban environment.

• Ground: Horizontal expression at podium levels to integrate with the landscape levels and design.

• Middle: Vertical expression of the façade to accentuate the elegant design.

• Top: Reduction in massing at the top of the building to create a compelling silhouette.

• Curved corners to create a soft and elegant architectural language.

• Gradual change in the façade expression and materiality from outer to inner volumes, to reinforce the articulation of the massing and allude to the idea of the waterfall.

Concept diagram of the eastern elevation East elevation - Empress Place Boulevard

ratio - recent submission comparatives

6.4.5 Layout and GA

Slenderness ratio

Residential precedents comparative

During the design process it has been useful to compare the slenderness ratio with other tall buildings in the city. Relevant precedents informed the development of the building proportions with the maximum heights and widths established by the masterplan. The findings showed a range of slenderness ratios according to overall height:

• 20-30 floors = approximately 2.5-3 slenderness ratio

• 30-40 floors = approximately 3.5 slenderness ratio

• 40 floors + = approximately 4-6.5 slenderness ratio

The slenderness of WB04 compares favourably with these precedent examples.

6.4 WB04

6.4.5 Layout and GA

Slenderness ratio

Rationale for achieving slenderness

The table below positions WB04 in relation to the precedent buildings shown on the previous page. Most examples are based on a rectangular plan, with a significant difference between the slenderness of the short and long sides. The challenge has been to create slender proportions on a building based on a square plan. The Petal Plan presents slender aspects to all views.

Slenderness Ration comparative table

Height Slenderness Ratio

Slenderness has been achieved by eroding the corners of the square to create the Petal Plan. This creates narrow faces of the building, 15.8m faces are perceived, rather than the 35m square, with strong vertical proportions accentuated by the vertical expression of the façade. The top volume further emphasises the building’s slenderness from the east and west views.

6.4.5 Layout and GA

Private amenity

Integral to the design from inside and outside

Each home benefits from private amenity space in accordance with the GLA’s Housing Design Standards London Plan Guidance (2023). The spaces are located in the curved corners of the outer bundles, celebrating the open panoramic views.

Owing to the height, different faces and corners of the building have differing micro-climatic conditions. The design for the amenity spaces has been developed considering these conditions through iterative wind testing. Wherever a comfortable external amenity space could not be achieved, these spaces have been internalisedsee diagrams overleaf.

The resulting design allows for external balconies on the leeward side of the building and on lower and middle levels on the prevailing wind side. The amenity spaces are internalised at the upper levels on the prevailing wind side but remain in the same locations.

The transition between external balconies and internalised private amenity is integral to the façade design, so the distinction between internal and external amenities is subtle. 6.4

Summary of Private Amenity

Balcony 178

Internal 89

Terrace 6

Podium terrace 5

Total No. of homes 278

The lee of the building

Layout and GA

Integrated private amenity

Inside-out design conception

Balconies are an integral part of the design, both inside and outside. The balcony balustrades are designed to mitigate wind with a 30% opacity and a 1,300mm height. The design ensures that the balustrade is still sufficiently open to provide views from inside out and good daylight to balconies.

Where wind cannot be mitigated without affecting the quality of the balcony, the strategy has been to internalise the area of the private amenity, integrating it into the living room areas and providing a panoramic window to the corner. In the case of the studios, due to their compact nature and location, internalising the amenity has benefited the design by providing additional area and flexibility of use.

View towards

Balconies with 1300mm high & 30% solid balustrade

WB04

Layout and GA

Terraces

Generous terraces provide a ribbon of biodiversity and amenity space at different heights. The stepped terraces create a distinguished building form that gives identity to the building as an urban landmark. They also offer unique landscaped private and shared amenities that bring nature at height, with views towards the London skyline to the east, and the setting sun over Hammersmith and Fulham to the west.

Shared terraces are designed with seating areas and planters that are integral to the architecture. A combination of planting and the balustrades to the terraces mitigates wind. These open terraces are permissible for greening in the fire regulations, given there is no accommodation directly above them.

► Refer to section 6.6 for further description of the terraces’ landscape.

Reference images

Landscaped terraces. PARKROYAL on Pickering / WOHA.

Patrick Bingham-Hall

Seating areas and planters. Madison Avenue Plaza, NYC / SCAPE Studio.

terrace. Visual looking east with indicative fitout.

Podium gardens

Layout and GA

Level 39 residential amenity

A sustainable beacon with 360 degree views

The highest accessible floor for residents in the building provides two double-height amenity spaces connected by viewing platforms around the core. The temperate green landscaped conservatory is designed as part of the amenity offer for residents, and when considered with the terraces and lounge space, it provides 360-degree views across London. It will also be a recognisable feature in long-distant views.

The top of the building, with its terraces and conservatory, emphasises the plot vision to bring nature at height in different forms.

Reference images

Seating areas with city views citizenM Tower of London, London

Terraces with city views Canaletto, City Road, London.

Sturdy

Above: Concept sketch

Right: view from the Conservatory towards central London

Layout and GA

Accessibility

Internal circulation

WB04 is organised around a central core and internal corridors which provide access to all homes from the lifts.

All internal communal corridors are 1500 mm wide, allowing sufficient space for wheelchair users to easily manoeuvre and pass in opposite directions. Cross-corridor doors have been minimised and located only where necessary for fire protection reasons. All doors in communal routes have a clear opening width of 850 mm through a single-leaf door or one leaf of a doubleleaf door, and a 300 mm clear space to the leading edge on the pull side of the doors, and 200 mm clear space on the push side.

Details of lighting, door opening force, and finishes will be developed at the appropriate design stage following the guidance from paragraph 3.9 of Approved Document Part M Vol.1.

All residents will have access to at least two passenger lifts. WB04 has a central core comprised of two escape stairs and four passenger lifts. Two of these four lifts are designated as evacuation lifts—refer to the Fire Statement.

All lifts are to be designed in accordance with the provisions in paragraph 3.16 of Approved Document Part M Vol.1. Proposed lifts exceed the minimum required dimensions of 1100 mm wide by 1400 mm deep, and there is a landing

of at least 1500 mm by 1500 mm in front of all lift entrances that is clear of door swings. Details of landing and car controls, and ensuring compliance with the requirements of BS EN 8170:2003 will be developed at the appropriate design stage following the guidance in paragraph 3.16 of Approved Document Part M Vol.1.

All stairs are to be designed in accordance with the provisions in paragraph 3.17 of Approved Document Part M Vol.1 and the requirements of Approved Document Part K for ‘general access stair’.

Residential Amenities

Residential amenities for WB04 are located on the 1st and 39th floors, accessed from the lift core. Following the guidance from Approved Document Part M Vol.2, residential amenities will be developed at the appropriate design stage to ensure they are accessible to all residents and visitors.

Waste Rooms

Residents will dispose of their waste via a refuse chute accessible on each floor’s communal corridor which is designed as wheelchairaccessible. Bulky waste will be located on the Lower Ground Floor and accessed via the central lift core. The details of the refuse chute and bin store will be developed at the appropriate design stage to ensure they are accessible to all residents.

WB04 - First floor

Layout and GA

Accessible housing

WB04 will provide 278 homes. In line with the London Plan, 2021, at least 10% of the homes (28 out of 278) will be designed to meet Building Regulation requirement M4(3)’ wheelchair user dwellings’, and the remainder (250 out of 278) will be designed to meet Building Regulation requirement M4(2) ‘accessible and adaptable dwellings’.

The provision made to meet Building Regulation requirement M4(3) can be of two types:

• Wheelchair Adaptable Dwellings: The access provisions allow a simple adaptation of the dwelling to meet the requirements of occupants who use wheelchairs.

• Wheelchair Accessible Dwellings: The access provisions meet the requirements of occupants who use wheelchairs.

Wheelchair adaptable dwellings are intended to be wheelchair accessible through easy adaptations that do not require structural or service modifications or moving walls. They have greater flexibility in their internal layout, such as bathroom or kitchen layouts.

The proposed residential accommodation for Plot WB04 (OMS) is as follows:

* M4(3)(2)(a) - Wheelchair Adaptable

** M4(3)(2)(b) - Wheelchair Accessible

6.4 WB04

6.4.6

Façade and Materials

Façades and Materiality

The façade design helps to emphasise the building’s form and concept. It is defined by the contrast between masonry materials in the podium and the outer bundles, and transparent and reflective materials in the recessed inner bundles and top floors.

The concept of the waterfall creates a dramatic profile, formalised by the metal tubes running across the façade, unifying the body of the building with the top and base. Reflective metal is used to evoke the idea of water, mainly on the top and base of the building and its inner bundles. The materiality reflects the colours of the sky throughout the day and year—in harmony with its environment.

Architectural pre-cast is found at the outer bundles, closer to the base, to ground the building and relate to the lower neighbouring buildings of WB03, WB05, and the Empress State Building.

Architectural pre-cast

Glass

Metal

6.4.6 Façade and Materials

A reflection of the environment

The top of the building’s reflective materials will change in appearance throughout the day and year. This quality will further integrate nature and environmental awareness into the building’s architecture.

Lighting from inside and on the façade will play a crucial role in the striking expression of the building’s top and sides.

► Refer to Lighting Section 7

Inspiration taken from the Chrysler building’s material qualities

The building viewed at different times of the day, from sunrise to night and in different weather conditions

WB04

Façade and Materials

Top of the building and conservatory

The top of the building façade is mainly composed of glass and metal to maximise the panoramic views out.

The façades to the homes to the north and the south are formed of metal cladding, with reflective metal tubes fixed in front and a succession of small glazed bays.

The façades to the homes to the east and the west are predominantly glazed with reflective metal tubes fixed in front of metal panels.

At the conservatory levels, the façade is more transparent by replacing the previously described metal backing panels with glazing units.

Outer bundles

The outer bundles form the façade of the majority of the residential levels. The predominant material is smooth architectural pre-cast, with deep punched windows and ribbed spandrels. The metal window frames include overpanels made of the same material to facilitate connection to the apartments ventilation where needed.

Inner bundles

The inner bundles, which form the corners in between the outer bundles, are composed of metal cladding with reflective metal tubes fixed to the front. These metal panels form a sine wave that alludes to the fluid form that water can take. Different solar positions will reflect light differently on the façade throughout the day and year. The deep punched windows take advantage of the deeper points of the sine wave to maximise solar shading.

Metal tube cladding layer

The entrance

The waterfall expression

The waterfall language of the top is carried through the inner bundles to the ground to form a 4-storey entrance expression. Different scales of glass form the two elements of the entrance piece: a double-height lobby space and two floors of residential accommodation above.

The waterfall effect is created by a combination of curved glass panels and semi-reflective metal tubes which run across the façade, unifying the body of the building with the top and base.

Façade and Materials

WB04 Commercial podium facade

The façade treatment continues from the retail facade to the southern part of Empress Place Boulevard. Textured architectural pre-cast serves as the main solid horizontal element, accompanied by light bronze ribbed metal spandrels above the windows featuring deep mullions and fenestration in light bronze. Metal canopies with delicate profiles provide shading throughout.

Cascading pavilions

The cascading pavilions are a culmination of WB04’s waterfall expression, connecting the building to the landscape of the Cascades.

Textured architectural pre-cast continues as the main solid horizontal element, accompanied by a metal expression to the residential amenity, and food and beverage units. Metal tubes extend from the spandrels in front of the glass and serve as an additional shading device to the south-western façade.

6.5.1 Summary of Plot Proposal

WB05 is located at the western boundary of the LBHF Detailed Component, fronting Aisgill Gardens to the north and Aisgill Avenue to the west.

WB05 comprises two residential buildings, providing homes and associated ancillary spaces, a purpose built new Community Hub and a flexible commercial space.

A private residents’ courtyard is provided between the two residential buildings and a mews street and community grow garden are situated at the western edge of the plot.

Summary of WB05:

184 homes across two buildings

Purpose built new Community Hub

Flexible commercial space

Private residential courtyard at grade

Community grow garden and mews

3% residential Blue Badge parking spaces

► Refer to Design and Access Statement: Volume 1 (EC.PA.08) for WB05 Community Hall and potential improvements to the Aisgill Avenue sports area.

6.5.2 Principles

Response to the Masterplan Strategic Framework

The proposals adopt the masterplan principles, developing them to address the specific context of the WB05 plot and brief.

WB05 is a transitional composition of buildings that reconciles the scale of the West Kensington Estate, WB04, and future phases of the masterplan. The character, scale and massing approach will inform the future residential buildings that run north along the eastern edge of the Estates.

Its sensitive composition seeks to seamlessly integrate existing and new communities through a stepped form, integrated landscape, and range of community uses.

The Masterplan Principles (grey) were developed into the Key Plot Principles (black) as shown to the right. 6.5

► Considerate neighbour Scale to respond to existing context ► People and Planet Residential courtyard and planting in the ground ► Stitching in - relationship to the Estates Alignment with Aisgill Avenue and Empress Place Boulevard

Key plot principles

Based on the key plot principles, the general arrangement was developed as shown in this section.

The form of WB05 reconciles the street pattern of the Estates with the north - south orientation of Empress Place Boulevard, ensuring an integrated response.

BellamyClose

Aisgill Gardens Empress State Building and carpark

AisgillAvenue

6.5.3 Scale and Mass

Land use

The development proposal comprises of a residential mix of 1, 2, and 3 bedroom homes, totalling 184 new homes.

It is supplemented by circa 440 sqm of community uses at the Ground Floor of WB05-T2, and 321 sqm of flexible commercial space at the Ground and Mezzanine Floors of Building T1. The brief for a new Community Hub has been developed to ensure the continuity of the existing Community Hub and provide facilities to both new and existing residents.

► Refer to accommodation schedules in Chapter 8

6.5.4

WB05 courtyard landscape

A garden provides private amenity for residents of WB05.

In contrast to a podium design approach, a residential courtyard at the heart of the plot has been incorporated into the Ground Floor general arrangement. Subsequently, green landscape elements are set into the ground, reducing volume of construction and embodied carbon associated with a podium design.

WB05 adopts a permeable design approach and the landscape flows into the heart of the plot from Aisgill Gardens.

6.5 WB05

General Arrangement

Layouts

Habitable dual aspect homes provide residents with increased daylight, cross ventilation and optimal views.

WB05 commits to providing high quality homes, with 100% of dwellings benefiting from habitable dual aspect.

General Arrangement

Ground Floor

Ground Floor level is at the same level as Aisgill Gardens, which is located to the north of WB05.

The Ground Floor provides activation and uses that support the community focused landscape; cafe, public WC, changing facilities, educational and social uses, horticulture and grow gardens.

The new Community Hub and Community Hall (in Outline) are located to the west of the plan, adjacent to the West Kensington Estate. It provides a welcoming environment, replacing the shear 4m tall brick wall with generous landscape, complementary residential homes and community facilities. The potential re-provision of the sports area and a Community Hall will strengthen the integration and complete Aisgill Avenue.

AisgillAvenue

AISGILLAVENUE

WB05 Ground Floor (+4.0m AOD)

Aisgill Gardens

Community Hall

AisgillGardenMews

General Arrangement

Typical lower residential floor plan

A clean, well designed residential plan, in the spirit of West London Mansion blocks, will ensure its future relevance as an uplifting, timeless place to live.

10% of homes across both buildings will be designed to be M4(3) dwellings. The majority of homes benefit from views onto green spaces and/or long distance views. Residents overlook Aisgill Gardens to the north and the courtyard between WB05 T1 and T2. Low-rise homes to the west of the site allow residents to benefit from uninterrupted long distance views.

Arrangement

Typical upper residential floor plan

The top floors of WB05-T1 step in from the main building footprint, enabling four of the homes at Level 14 to have roof terraces.

Homes on Level 15 are a mix of 1 and 2 bedroom dwellings and possess balconies similar to a typical lower level, with all homes designed as habitable dual aspect.

General Arrangement

Roof plan

The roofs of T1 and T2 accommodate collocated plant serving the LBHF Detailed Component, as well as the wider development.

The plant equipment is enclosed by an extruded metal mesh screen. Acoustic panels on the interior provide sound absorption to minimise any noise impact to surrounding buildings.

With WB05 being one of the first buildings to be delivered in the Proposed Development, it also plays a pivotal role in activating the Site-wide ambient loop energy network. The rooftop of WB05 will house key energy network plant (dry air coolers) which allows space to be available at ground level to be developed into a green landscaped environment.

Grouping the collocated plant in concentrated locations is the most sustainable solution, creating operational efficiency benefits.

Housing Quality

WB05 layouts

All homes are designed to the following principles:

• Circulation and non-habitable spaces located in the depth of the plan.

• Balconies as an extension to the living room. All balconies benefit from a dual aspect.

• Open plan living/kitchen/dining. Potential to zone kitchens separately from living rooms in 3 bedroom homes.

• 10% M4(3) accessible homes provided.

• The proposed development provides 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom homes. Typical layouts for the residential dwellings are shown here.

Housing Quality

Accessible layouts

10% wheelchair accessible homes are provided in WB05.

To allow maximum flexibility for the location and requirement for M4(3) homes, dwellings have been designed so that they can be constructed as either an M4(2) or M4(3) accessible home according to the requirement.

This allows all homes to stack, creating efficiency and a reduced form factor, as well as evenly distributing the M4(3) throughout the T1.

WB05 proposes high quality housing. All buildings within the LBHF Detailed Component perform to a high standard both externally and internally

S OLARSHADIN

Integral external shading provided to limited areas on the western, southern and eastern elevations to mitigate overheating

New community facilities to support new and existing residents

Dwelling types efficiently stack throughout the building and land to ground to enable a good form factor. This in turn reduces heat loss and lowers residents’ energy usage

100% habitable dual aspect to all residential homes will improve daylight quality, outlook and cross ventilation

Access to a well lit residential courtyard at grade, with trees planted in the ground.

Simple, elegant façades will be easily maintained, reducing service charge for residents

10% of homes will are wheelchair accessible

Rainwater harvesting located at grade to both buildings

Layouts

Internal circulation

WB05 T1 and T2 are organised around a central core and internal corridors that provide access to all homes from the two lifts and two stairs.

All internal communal corridors are 1500 mm wide, allowing sufficient space for wheelchair users to easily manoeuvre, and to pass in opposite directions.

Cross-corridors doors have been minimised and located only where necessary for fire protection reasons. All doors in communal routes have a clear opening width of 850 mm through a single leaf door, or one leaf of a double leaf door; and a 300 mm clear space to the leading edge on the pull side of the doors and 200 mm clear space in the push side.

Details of lighting, door opening force and finishes will be developed at the appropriate design stage following the guidance from paragraph 3.9 of Approved Document Part M Vol.1.

Each building has a central core that is comprised of two escape stairs and two lifts. The two lifts serve as both passenger and evacuation lifts.

All lifts are to be designed in accordance with the provisions in paragraph 3.16 of Approved Document Part M Vol.1. Proposed lift cars exceed the minimum required dimensions of 1100 mm wide by 1400 mm deep, and there is a landing of at least 1500 mm by 1500 mm in front of all lift entrances that is clear of door swings.

Details of landing and car controls, and ensuring compliance with the requirements of BS EN 8170:2003 will be developed at the appropriate design stage following the guidance in paragraph 3.16 of Approved Document Part M Vol.1.

All stairs are to be designed in accordance with the provisions in paragraph 3.17 of Approved Document Part M Vol.1 and the requirements of Approved Document Part K for ‘general access stair’.

Waste rooms

Residents will dispose of their waste in dedicated bin stores located at Ground Floor. The routes from the dwellings to the bin stores will be step-free and will be accessible to all residents, including wheelchair users. Details will be developed at the appropriate design stage to ensure that they are accessible to all residents.

Plot WB05 - Typical residential floor (Level 3)

Accessible housing

WB05 (T1 and T2) will provide 184 homes. In line with the London Plan 2021 at least 10% of the dwellings (19 out 184) will be designed to meet Building Regulation requirement M4(3) ‘wheelchair user dwellings’, and the rest (165 out 184), will be designed to meet Building Regulation requirement M4(2) ‘accessible and adaptable dwellings’.

The provision made to meet Building Regulation requirement M4(3) can be of two types:

• Wheelchair adaptable dwellings: the access provisions allow a simple adaptation of the dwelling to meet the requirements of occupants who use wheelchairs.

• Wheelchair accessible dwellings: the access provisions meet the requirements of occupants who use wheelchairs.

Wheelchair adaptable dwellings are intended to be capable of becoming wheelchair accessible through easy adaptations that do not require structural or service modifications, or moving walls. They have greater flexibility in their internal layout, such as bathroom or kitchen layouts.

Wheelchair accessible dwellings are intended to be readily usable by wheelchair users at the point of completion.

Wheelchair user dwellings will normally be designed as wheelchair accessible only where the local authority is responsible for allocating or nominating a person to live in that dwelling.

The proposed residential accommodation for Plot WB05-T1 is as follows:

The proposed residential accommodation for Plot WB05-T2 is as follows:

WB05

Façade and Materials

Materiality

WB05 mediates between the West Kensington Estate and the WB04 building to the east through its height and massing.

This approach is carried through to WB05’s expression of colour. Homes in the West Kensington Estate are a dark brown brick, while the masonry of WB03 and WB04 are a warm natural stone colour. WB05 seeks to mediate between the two conditions, with a darker colour at its base, that graduates to a lighter tone at the upper levels.

This seeks to stitch a relationship between the new and existing development.

Concept Section: Height and colour responding to surrounding context

Boulevard Ney Housing, Paris

Eenhoornblocks, Korthtielens Architects, Amsterdam

Colour graduation

Dark Light

WB04 architectural pre-cast façade

WB05 from Aisgill Avenue

West Kensington Estate (adjacent context) Brown brick

WB05 References and Inspiration

6.5.7 Façade

& Materials

WB05 façade articulation

The design proposal creates a contemporary response to the historical context of the former Earls Court Exhibition Centre.

T1, as an 16-storey residential building, references taller building typologies. These have a strong vertical emphasis. T1 relays this with its expressed vertical piers.

T2, the 9 storey residential building, references the mid rise 1930s mansion block typology. T2 has a strong horizontal articulation, with expressed brickwork on the spandrel. The façade articulation aims to reference and reinterpret historical forms whilst providing modern homes for the new masterplan.

Precedent

WB05 - T1

The brick façade has a vertical articulation to emphasise its slenderness.

The vertical piers are expressed with a textured brickwork which graduates in tone from the base to the top. This references the dark brown brick Aisgill Avenue homes at the lower levels and the architectural pre-cast tones of WB03 and WB04 at the upper levels.

Curved metal balconies provide residents with privacy and protection from the elements, whilst the balcony colour also graduates in tone from dark (base) to light (top).

T1 Perspective and Material Palette Metalwork tones (left), Brickwork (right)

Façade & Materials

WB05 - T2

The brick materiality ties into the fabric of the neighbouring Estates.

The façade expresses its horizontal emphasis with rusticated brickwork detailing at the spandrel level. The base of T2 is a dark brown brick, fitting in with the Aisgill Avenue homes. As the building ascends, the bricks become lighter in tone, to a buff beige.

The balconies are mesh metalwork with curved corners similar to T1 which reference the curved forms of the Empress State Building to the south and the former Earls Court Exhibition Centres.

T2 Perspective and Material Palette Metalwork tones (left), Brickwork (right)

T2 1:50 Bay Study Model

T2 Façade Detail

Summary of Landscape Proposal

Overview

This section has been prepared by LDA Design, the landscape consultants, to set out the principles behind the landscape proposals for plots WB03, WB04 and WB05.

The landscape proposals have been informed by both the London Plan (2021) and the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham Local Plan (2018) along with the relevant national, London, and borough-wide planning guidance.

The landscape for the LBHF Detailed Component covers 5170m2 spread over a variety of spaces and levels - the WB03/04 podium and upper level terraces and the WB05 courtyard.

The section sets out the principles and strategies which underpin the proposals, before outlining each of the areas in further detail. The Urban Greening Factor (UGF) calculation, materials and planting strategies conclude the chapter.

above: plot landscape proposals illustrative plan. Proposals described in detail on following pages.

Image

6.6 Landscape

6.6.2

Principles

Access

The scope of these proposals is to cover the landscaped amenity for the residents of WB03, WB04 and WB05. The residents of WB04 benefit from the generous podium garden whilst the residents of WB05 can enjoy a communal courtyard garden off which both buildings are accessed. For WB03, the primary amenity offer for the students is internal, although these areas have been designed around an attractive lightwell courtyard. The student residents also benefit from two roof terraces on the upper levels of the building, enjoying fantastic views over London whilst surrounded by greenery.

Adjacencies & aspect

The WB05 landscaped courtyard garden is set on ground level providing direct and level access to Aisgill Gardens. The WB04 podium garden is set above the surrounding landscape, creating views across the Table Park to the east, the Cascades to the north and the Empress State Building to the west. Consideration has been given to the interface between landscaped amenity areas and people’s homes, ensuring the planting strategy creates a protective buffer that provides a level of privacy for residents.

Micro climate

All amenity areas meets Building Research Establishment (BRE) guidelines for daylight. The central and southern edge of the WB04 podium gardens benefits from the most sunlight whilst a dynamic shadow is cast by the Empress State Building and WB03 across the podium gardens throughout the day. Although analysis shows the podium is not unduly windy, planting along the southern and western edges will mitigate the impact of the wind further. The height of WB05 means the prevailing wind is not exacerbated and that the courtyard garden is not unduly shaded.

Use

There is provision for play, including that for children under 5 years, as well as communal growing space ('Grow Gardens'), in line with Homes Quality Mark (HQM) guidance. Beyond statutory and planning requirements, the intention is to provide a variety of spaces, catering to a variety of needs and inclinations, that are accessible, safe and welcoming to all.

Hybrid Application Site boundary

LBHF Detailed Component boundary

BMU area for WB03 and WB04

Main access

Secondary access

Main out looking view

Inaccessible podium

Sun moving directions

Defence zone for WB03 and WB04

Possible green spaces

Possible active spaces

Although the external amenity spaces benefit from good light levels, the shade cast, and shelter provided by the buildings, provide variety and create areas with their own microclimate. There are opportunities to create sun-drenched spaces and also shadier, sheltered spots (the latter will, as the climate warms, be increasingly appreciated). This will be reflected both in the character and use of the spaces and in the species selected for planting.

n

21st June (Summer solstice)

available sunlight: 16hrs 38mins

6.6 Landscape 6.6.3 Layout and GA

WB04 Podium

The podium provides outdoor amenity space for residents of WB04. A variety of spaces are set within abundant planting. The planting provides visual amenity for residents of both buildings and mitigates windy conditions. It also addresses the various adjacencies, deterring activity close to the podium-level homes in WB03 and WB04, as well as along the western edge overlooking the Empress State Building.

The circular lawn benefits from the sunniest location, and the terraces all benefit from excellent views of the masterplan landscape. The pergola to the northern terrace adds interest to these spaces and creates a visual reference to those looking up at the podium from the public realm below. The semi-circular terrace overlooking the Table Park is framed by covered circular booths, providing pockets of intimacy within the larger space, and a place of respite in inclement weather.

Space dedicated to communal growing is located on the west facing part of the lower terrace, as this benefits from good levels of sunlight.

Whilst the identified space for play will be populated with timber play features, it is envisaged that children will enjoy exploring all of the podium.

The southern end of the podium is heavily shaded. This, together with its proximity to WB03, make it unsuitable for use as amenity space. However it does create an opportunity to dedicate a large part of the podium, untroubled by footfall, to biodiversity and habitat creation.

The terrace enjoys views across the Table Park.

Sheltered circular seating alcoves allow families and friends to congregate.

Brick paving and wall (refer to 6.6.6 for hard materials strategy).

with abundant planting.

View of the Western Terrace overlooking the Table Park.

View showing the western terrace, play and circular lawn.

The terrace provides an area of hard standing that can be used for informal or programmed communal events. Sheltered alcoves for inclement days. Abundant planting gives the podium substance.

Play features, set in the landscape, will create focal points.

The planting is positioned to both screen and frame views.

‘Cartoon’ illustrating the sequence of

Layout and GA

Table Park.

Empress Place Boulevard.

Views from the terrace across the Masterplan Landscape. Dense planting to the Podium. Play area.

Circular lawn framed with seating. Planting buffer zone.

Section through the podium and the Table Park.

Sketch illustrating proposed build-ups

Planting up to the edge

Hedgerow: native & biodiverse, deters access

6.6 Landscape

Layout and GA

WB05 Courtyard

The WB05 courtyard is located at ground level, providing opportunity to include larger tree planting within the design response.

The arrangement of the buildings creates an enclosed, triangular courtyard entered at its northern point. Residents will access the courtyard from Aisgill Gardens, connecting one green space with another and into the wider network of public green spaces. From the courtyard, residents of both buildings will have direct access into their respective lobbies and cycle stores.

The courtyard benefits from direct access to southern sun, whilst being a secure space for residents and 0-4 years play space. Play will be centred around a single element - a ‘fallen’ tree, inspired by the sculptures of Ai Wei Wei. The sense of enclosure will be created as much by the planting as by the buildings.

The Outline proposals also include a grow garden and a pedestrian mews street, between the Community Hall (Outline) and the new Community Hub. These spaces allow community activities to continue outside and connect with the wider public realm.

6.6 Landscape

6.6.3 Layout and GA

WB03 Terraces

External amenity space for residents of WB03 is provided on two terraces located on the 32nd floor. The terraces feature perimeter planting behind balustrades to ensure mitigation of the prevailing wind. Fixed seating provides comfortable spots from where views can be enjoyed.

In keeping with the Strategic Framework, both amenity and non-amenity areas feature planting.

- For People and Planet: taking every opportunity to incorporate planting to maximise biodiversity, create ecological habitat and bring delight to residents and onlookers.

- Turning Constraints into Opportunities: the terrace facing north-east will benefit from shelter from the prevailing south-westerly winds, but will be shadier than the terrace facing south-east. The south-east facing terrace will be windier but it will also be sunnier. These contrasting microclimates allow a variety of planting species and increases biodiversity.

► Refer to section 6.6.7 for planting palettes

6.6 Landscape 6.6.3 Layout and GA

WB04 Terraces

WB04 features a variety of amenity and non-amenity spaces at levels 33, 35 and 39. These are a mixture of inaccessible green roofs, private and shared amenity.

As with the amenity spaces on WB03, wind conditions are mitigated by combination of balustrade and planting. The different aspects of these spaces creates different microclimates. This allows a variety of planting palette and increases biodiversity.

On level 39, the uppermost amenity terraces, planting is concentrated on the south facing edges. Further planting is provided to the rear of the terraces with recessed seating, creating sheltered areas of amenity.

The remaining edges of these terraces are lightly planted. This is to ensure spectacular views are unimpeded.

‘Cartoon’

6.6 Landscape

6.6.4 Design Strategies

Play strategy

The play strategy set out by the masterplan allocates some of the 0-4 years (doorstep) play within plots. Play for older children is provided within the wider public realm.

WB03 provides student accommodation, so does not generate a requirement for play.

WB04 requires 258m2 of doorstep play space. Given the size of the podium, this can be comfortably accommodated.

WB05 requires 565m2 of doorstep play. The total area of WB05 courtyard is 600m2 of which 360m2 of space has been allocated for play. The remaining play space will be provided within Aisgill Gardens. 618m2 allocated for 0-4 years (doorstep) play in total at plot WB04 and WB05.

6.6 Landscape

Design Strategies

External amenity space

WB04

• Total number of 3 bed homes: 30

• 36sqm amenity space per dwelling required by HS1 Planning Guidance SPD (2018)

• Total required amenity space: 1080m2

• Amenity area provided on communal podium and terraces: 2484m2

• Amenity area provided in private terraces and balconies: 342.5m2

• Total amenity area provided at WB04: 2826.5m2

Conclusion: All 3 bed amenity can be provided on plot.

WB05

• Total number of 3 bed homes: 52

• 36sqm amenity space per dwelling required by HS1 Planning Guidance SPD (2018)

• Total required amenity space: 1872m2

• Amenity area provided within WB05 courtyard: 601m2

• Amenity area provided in balconies: 416m2

• Total amenity area provided at WB05: 1017m2

Conclusion: 855m2 shortfall to be provided in Aisgill Gardens.

Aisgill Garden

6.6.5 Urban Greening Factor

MundStreet

The London Plan Policy G5 requires major developments to include and calculate Urban Greening Factor (UGF) as a key element of the design.

Nevern Square

Baselines have been set for each plot, which feed into a wider site-wide measurement. The proposals described on the previous pages ensure that the baselines for WB03, 04 & 05 have all been exceeded. Baseline

The London Plan requires new developments to make urban greening a fundamental element of their site and building design, and to deliver net gains for biodiversity.

As with the Masterplan UGF strategy, baseline targets for Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) have been set for each plot.

As the figures below illustrate, the proposals will ensure a significant percentage increase in biodiversity net gain.

Copyright Hawkins\Brown - Studio Egret West Architects

Copyright Hawkins\Brown - Studio Egret West

Architects

No implied licence exists. This drawing should not be used to calculate areas for the purposes of valuation. Do not scale this drawing. All dimensions to be checked on the site by the contractor and such dimensions to be their responsibility. All work must comply with relevant British Standards and Building Regulations requirements. Drawing errors and omissions to be reported to the architect. To be read in conjunction with Architect's specification and other consultant information.

Baseline

EARL'S COURT STATION

No implied licence exists. This drawing should not be used to calculate areas for the purposes of valuation. Do not scale this drawing. All dimensions to be checked on the site by the contractor and such dimensions to be their responsibility. All work must comply with relevant British Standards and Building Regulations requirements. Drawing errors and omissions to be reported to the architect. To be read in conjunction with Architect's specification and other consultant information.

Rev.Issued to Description Date P01ALLFor Review & Comment 29.02.24 P02ALLEIA

Urban Greening Factor Catagories

Rev.Issued to Description Date

P01ALLFor Review & Comment 29.02.24

Site boundary

P02ALLEIA Design Freeze 04 28.03.24

Urban Greening Factor Catagories

Detailed plots outlined in orange

NOTE:

Courtyards above structure

Site boundary

Detailed plots outlined in orange

UGF Category - Intensive green roof or vegetation over structure. Substrate minimum settled depth of 150mm 60% of total area assumed to be planted.

Courtyards above structure

Courtyards

UGF Category -Flower-rich perennial planting 60% of total area assumed to be planted

UGF Category - Intensive green roof or vegetation over structure. Substrate minimum settled depth of 150mm 60% of total area assumed to be planted.

Commercial accessible podiums

Courtyards

UGF Category -Flower-rich perennial planting 60% of total area assumed to be planted

UGF Category - Intensive green roof or vegetation over structure. Substrate minimum settled depth of 150mm 60% of total area assumed to be planted.

Commercial accessible podiums

Residential accessible podiums

UGF Category - Intensive green roof or vegetation over structure. Substrate minimum settled depth of 150mm 60% of total area assumed to be planted.

UGF Category - Intensive green roof or vegetation over structure. Substrate minimum settled depth of 150mm 60% of total area assumed to be planted.

Residential accessible podiums

Plant Enclosure

UGF Category - Intensive green roof or vegetation over structure. Substrate minimum settled depth of 150mm 60% of total area assumed to be planted.

Plant Enclosure

Aisgill Gardens

Cascades

Nevern Square

6.6 Landscape 6.6.6 Materials

Hard material

The following pages describe the approach to materiality

These palettes are provided to give an impression of the ‘look and feel’ sought at this stage and will be subject to further design development and refinement throughout the subsequent design stages.

The key considerations in determining these palettes have been:

Sustainability: the overall carbon cost of the materials proposed has been considered. Re-use of materials and achieving a circular economy have also been key drivers in the selection process.

‘Look and feel’: each material contributes to the design, combining to form a coherent and attractive picture.

Robustness and ease of maintenance: the selected materials are durable and easy to maintain.

The tables on this page are included to illustrate the sustainability value of different materials. This information has been used to inform our material choices.

Paving Materials

6.6 Landscape 6.6.6 Materials

Paving on podium

Paving on terraces

Paving at WB05 courtyard

Play surface

Stepping Stone in WB05 courtyard

Planter wall on WB04 podium

Gravel edge for green roofs

Metal paving edge

Metal planter edge

Seating on WB04 terraces and podium

Seating at WB05 courtyard

Table and Chairs on WB04 lower terraces

Pergola on WB04 podium

Growing planter at WB04 level 1 terrace

Green house at WB04 level 1 terrace

Indicative material plan for WB03 and WB04 podium.

Indicative material plan for WB05 courtyard.

Paving on WB04 podium and WB05 courtyard: brick paver.

Planter wall on WB04 podium: brick wall (brick match paver)

Stepping stone: natural stone.

Metal planter edge.

Growing planter: hardwood timber.

Play surface: bark mulch.

Fixed benches on WB04 podium: mounted on planter wall: Vestre ‘Vroom’.

Pergolas on WB04 podium: FSC certified hardwood.

Moveable furniture at WB04 lower terraces (tables and chairs)

Fixed benches at WB05 courtyard: e.g. Vestre ‘Kong’ seat.

Greenhouse: e.g. Hartley Botanic ‘Grow and Store’.

Landscape

Materials

Lighting

In developing the landscape lighting strategy, consideration has been given to the proximity of these external amenity spaces to residents’ homes and the impact lighting can have on wildlife.

Lighting will be restricted to pathways and areas of seating, which will be lit either with low bollard lights or lighting recessed into walls. Seating edges and nooks will be subtly lit so that they can be used in the evening.

Linear lighting: Integrated with seating and plater edge. Indicative

Recessed wall lighting

Bollard lighting

6.6 Landscape 6.6.7 Planting

WB03 and WB04

Planting will serve practical purposes: defining spaces, creating buffers between private and communal amenity, controlling access or overlooking and providing shelter and shade.

In response to the place pillar of ‘Nature’, the planting will be diverse, encouraging residents to enjoy the seasonal change of colour, scent and texture in the landscape.

A combination of evergreen and perennial species will ensure both the excitement of change and the reassurance of continuity. Native plants will be combined with those that flower or fruit when those natives do not. This will ensure year round habitat and sustenance for wildlife.

Biodiverse Roof (intensive)

Biodiverse Roof (extensive)

Raised Vegetable Beds

Short Perennial (BMU)

Bio-Swale

Tree

Shrub and Perennial

Amenity Lawn

Planting plan of the WB03 and WB04 podium

WB05 Courtyard and public amenity space

The arrangement of WB05 creates a sheltered courtyard. Upon entering, residents will be enveloped by the planting and insulated from the surrounding noise and bustle.

As with WB03 and WB04 the planting will provide shelter and shade, frame views, and define routes and spaces which will benefit wildlife and increase biodiversity.

Trees

Shrub and Perennial

Green wall

Green Roof (intensive)

Planting plan of the WB05 courtyard

6.6 Landscape

Planting

Acer griseum Multi-stem, 2-3m dia canopy, 2.53.5m height

Prunus Serrulla Clear stem, 1.5-2m dia canopy, 2-3m height

Quercus ilex Clear stem, 2-3m dia canopy, 2.5-3.5m height

Sorbus aucuparia Clear stem, 2-3m dia canopy, 2.5-3.5m height

Acer campestre Clear stem, 2-3m dia canopy, 2.5-3.5m height

Shrub, herbaceous planting.

Extensive green roof.

Green Wall climbing at the plant room building, southeast wall of the courtyard.

Lawn.

Raised Beds at grow garden.

Intensive green roof.

7 Technical Strategies

7.1 Access & Movement

Servicing and vehicle access

Vehicle access and servicing of WB03, WB04 & WB05 will be provided primarily via the Service Access Road (SAR).

The proposed SAR will connect to Lillie Road to the south, and provide access to the Lower Ground level of the podium for the following types of servicing:

• refuse collection

• bulky waste collection

• delivery of furniture and large goods

• courier deliveries

• move in/out

• retail servicing

In addition to the SAR, refuse collection for WB05 (T2) is proposed from Aisgill Avenue.

The SAR also facilitates vehicular access to the future plot WB06 (within the LBHF Outline Component) and, until such time as the Lillie Bridge Depot is vacated, will provide long vehicle access to the Depot.

► Further details are provided within the draft Delivery and Servicing Plan WB03, WB04, WB05 EC.LBHF.04.

► Further details are provided within the draft Operational Waste Management Plan WB03, WB04, WB05 EC.LBHF.06.

(OUTLINE)

Detailed Component Ground Floor plan showing servicing and vehicle access

Vehicle Route and Loading Bay via public highway / On-site loading bay for refuse collection and deliveries

Vehicle Route and Loading Bay via Service Access Road / Refuse collection complying with maximum 10m pull distance

Future route to WB06 (Outline)

Interim Long Vehicle Route to Lillie Bridge Depot

WB03

LILLIE ROAD

LILLIE BRIDGE DEPOT

7.1 Access & Movement

Residents access

Pedestrian access to all buildings will be provided at-grade from the public realm, either via Empress Place Boulevard or Aisgill Gardens.

Drop-off points

The Proposed Development will deliver a public realm that prioritises people, with limited vehicle access to the heart of the Site and with the only exceptions being for emergency or outof-hours servicing vehicles. The Site benefits from excellent public transport connectivity and most people living and working in the development will use public transport. However, it is acknowledged that public transport may not be accessible for all, and the proposals have considered the needs of people who rely on community transport, taxis or minicabs as a means of transport.

A dedicated taxi bay or drop-off point is proposed to be located along the Service Access Road, which will enable residents with mobility needs to be dropped off or picked up within 50m of the entrances to WB03 and WB04. A further drop-off point is proposed on Aisgill Avenue and which will be approximately 80m from the entrance of WB05-T1 and WB05-T2. Seating will be provided along the route for those who cannot walk long distances without resting.

Routes from the drop-off points to building entrances will be along wide footpaths with level or gentle gradients, and a suitable ground surface, with the necessary measures to ensure safety to all pedestrians.

7.1 Access & Movement

Car Parking

Blue Badge parking is located on the Service Access Road at Lower Ground level for WB03 and WB04, and Ground Floor for WB05.

The provision of Blue Badge bays is as follows:

• 1 bay dedicated to Plot WB03;

• 9 bays dedicated to Plot WB04, which equates to 3% of the total of dwellings provided; and

• 6 bays dedicated to WB05, which equates to 3% of the total dwellings provided.

Blue Badge parking will meet dimensional requirements and other specifications as set out in Approved Document Part M of the Building Regulations and LBHF guidance.

Routes from Blue Badge parking to lift cores will be level or gently sloped and less than 50m long, as recommended by the Inclusive Mobility guidance.

► Further details are provided within the draft Parking design and Management Plan WB03, WB04, WB05 EC.LBHF.05.

Access & Movement

Cycle strategy

Cycle routes are established within the Strategic Framework for the Site. Cycle storage and usage has been fully considered and designed into the design proposals for the plots.

Key

Residential entrance

Non-residential entrance

Cycle entrance

External accessible route

Internal accessible route

Passenger lift

Evacuation lift

Fire-fighting lift

Dual evac/fire-fighting lift

Cycle lift

Two-tier cycle stands

Sheffield cycle stands

Larger Sheffield cycle spaces

Pedestrian and cycle access - Plot WB05, Ground Floor

Pedestrian and cycle access - Plots WB03 and WB04, Ground Floor

Access & Movement

Cycle parking

Cycle parking is provided in line with the London Plan 2021 requirements with layouts designed in accordance with the guidance of the London Cycling Design Standards (LCDS), including a mix of stands accounting for all user needs and catering for different types of cycles as follows:

• 5% of the provision is in the form of large spaces that are able to accommodate larger, adapted cycles or bicycles used by disabled cyclists;

• 15% of the provision is in the form of standard Sheffield stands; and

• the remaining 80% is in the form of two-tier stands.

Split level cycle stores for residents of Plots WB03 and WB04 are accessed at Ground Floor level from a dedicated entrance on each building from Empress Place Boulevard. The proposals to address the level changes are as follows:

• The cycle store for WB03 is split into two levels - starting with the Ground Floor and stepped slab set 1.6m above to accommodate refuse vehicles in the SAR. All Sheffield stands, including larger spaces, have been located at Ground Floor. Access to the remaining two-tier stands will be via a half flight of stairs with cycle channel.

• WB04 cycle store sits entirely on the 1.6m raised slab, accessed via ramp or stair with cycle channel.

• Cycle store for the commercial units is located at Ground Floor accessed independently from the Service Access Road.

Cycle stores for Plot WB05-T2 are located at Ground Floor, and for WB05-T1 have been split across the ground and mezzanine level. Access between the two floors will be via steps with a cycle channel and a cycle lift.

Summary of cycle provision numbers below:

*

Right: Example cycle store, St. Vincent Street, Sheppard Robson.

7.1 Access & Movement

Student enrolment day strategy

The student accommodation enrolment day will be managed by the building operator of WB03 and will likely occur over multiple weekend periods. It is envisioned that the Car Club bays (3no.) within the SAR will be utilised during the drop-off process. The students will have a limited amount of time to unload their vehicle, and then drivers will be required to leave the SAR.

Similarly for departure, students will be asked to book out a Car Club bay. During the booking process, students will be asked for the vehicle registration to allow the vehicle to enter the Service Access Road during the allocated time slot.

A user journey map for students is presented in Figure 2 on this page. Detail of the student enrolment strategy is provided within the Transport Assessment supporting this planning application.

Emergency vehicles

Emergency vehicle access to WB03 and WB04 is from either Aisgill Avenue, Empress Place Boulevard or Lillie Road. This will depend on the location of the emergency and the type of vehicle required.

Emergency vehicle access to WB05 is via Aisgill Avenue or Aisgill Gardens.

Figure 1 presents the emergency vehicle routes for the LBHF Detailed Component. Tracking of emergency vehicles around the LBHF Detailed Component can be found within the Transport Assessment supporting this planning application.

Lillie Bridge Depot servicing

The SAR has been designed to accommodate the Abnormal Load Vehicle that requires interim access to Lillie Bridge Depot. A swept path analysis for this abnormal length vehicle of 91ft (27.8m) has been undertaken to ensure it can be accommodated within the design.

► Further details are provided within the draft Travel Plan WB03, WB04, WB05 EC.LBHF.03.

Figure 2. Student enrolment day parking locations

Figure 1. Emergency Vehicle Routes

7.2.1

Accessibility

WB03 Student Accommodation

Entrances

The main entrance to WB03 is from Empress Place Boulevard. The entrance doors are recessed to make the entrance easily recognisable and to provide weather protection. A secondary entrance is proposed via the Service Access Road at the Lower Ground Floor for students and staff arriving by vehicle. A Blue Badge parking space and taxi drop-off bay are provided at the Service Access Road to serve WB03.

At Ground Floor, the food and beverage units and a dedicated students’ cycle entrance are accessed from Empress Place Boulevard.

All entrances will be step-free with accessible thresholds with level landings of at least 1500x1500mm immediately in front of entrances with no obstructions on approach that may present a hazard to visually impaired people.

All entrances will be designed to meet the guidance of Approved Document part M Vol.2. Entrance doors will provide a clear opening width of at least 1000mm through single-leaf doors or one leaf in double-leaf doors.

Manifestation and opening force requirements will be subject to detailed design to comply with Approved Document part M Vol.2 standards and guidance from British Standard 8300. 7.2

Lobbies

A spacious lobby is proposed at Ground Floor to welcome students. Details of the lobby will be developed at subsequent stages of design development following guidance of Approved Document M Vol. 2 and best practice recommendations from BS8300-2 and PAS 6463 where appropriate.

Amphitheatre-style seating is proposed between Ground Floor and First Floor as a link between student amenities. A step-free alternative route is provided via four passenger lifts. Further design development will consider hold-open and glazed doors where possible, to enhance the connectivity between stepped and step-free routes.

As required by Approved Document M Vol. 2, a unisex wheelchair-accessible WC has been included at Ground Floor close to the main building entrance.

WB03 - Ground Floor

Residential entrance

Non-residential entrance

Cycle entrance

Emergency exit

Internal accessible route

Emergency egress route

Passenger lift

Evacuation lift

Fire-fighting lift

Dual evac/fire-fighting lift

Cycle lift Steps

Two-tier cycle stands

Sheffield cycle stands

Larger Sheffield cycle spaces

Accessibility

7.2.1 WB03 Student Accommodation

Internal circulation

Level access is provided to all bedrooms on all levels. A typical floor plan is organised around a central core encircled with 1500mm wide corridors and passing points of at least 1800mm by 1800mm for wheelchair users to pass.

Consideration will be given to materials and finishes at the appropriate stage of design development, in order to avoid the use of visually and acoustically reflective surfaces and the use of bold patterns that could create visual confusion or be mistaken for changes in level.

All internal doors will be designed to meet the guidance of Approved Document part M Vol.2 (Part M), and will have a minimum clear opening width of at least 800/825 mm depending on the approach, through a single leaf door, or one leaf of a double leaf door whether power operated or held open. All internal doors will have an unobstructed space of at least 300 mm on the pull side of the door between the leading edge of the door and any return wall.

Further details such as vision panels, ironmongery and opening force, will be subject to detailed design and comply with Part M and follow the guidance from British Standard 83002:2018 where practicable.

All floors are accessed via passenger lifts. The building has a main lift core with four passenger lifts, two of which are evacuation lifts.

All proposed lifts have dimensions that meet or exceed the minimum dimensions required by Part M of 1100 mm wide by 1400 mm deep,

so they accommodate a wheelchair user and a companion as a minimum. All passenger lifts have a level landing of at least 1500x1500 mm in front of the lift doors. Details of the lifts will be developed at a later stage and will comply with the statutory guidance from Part M and British Standard EN 81-70.

Student amenities

Student amenities are located at first floor and at level 31, and are accessed from the lift core. Two communal outdoor spaces are provided at level 32 accessed from the main lift core, via a ramp. Student amenities will be further developed at the appropriate design stage following guidance from Part M to ensure they are accessible to all students and visitors regardless of their abilities.

Unisex wheelchair-accessible WC’s (AWC) will be provided where standard sanitary provision is provided and at the lobby at Ground Floor.

All AWC and WC cubicles for ambulant disabled people will be designed in accordance with Part M. Details will be subject to detail design and developed at a later stage.

WB03 - Level 1

7.2

Accessibility

7.2.2 WB04

Residential

Entrances

The main entrance to WB04 is from Empress Place Boulevard. Entrances will be easily recognisable from the street, with no obstructions on their approach that may present a hazard to visually impaired people. A secondary entrance is proposed at the Lower Ground Floor for residents arriving by vehicle, as blue badge car parking spaces and a taxi drop-off bay are provided from the Service Access Road.

At Ground Floor, the food and beverage units and a dedicated residents’ cycle entrance are accessed off Empress Place Boulevard.

All entrances will be step-free with accessible thresholds, and a minimum 1500x1500mm level landing either side. There will be no obstructions on their approach that may present a hazard to visually impaired people.

All entrances will be designed to meet the guidance of Part M, either Volume 1 or 2. Entrance doors to non-residential uses will provide a clear opening width of at least 1000 mm through single-leaf doors or one leaf in double-leaf doors. Residential entrance doors will give a clear opening width of at least 850 mm through single-leaf doors or one leaf in double-leaf doors.

Manifestation and opening force requirements will be subject to detailed design to comply with Part M standards and guidance from British Standard 8300.

The main entrance lobby and residents’ amenity spaces are accessed from the main lift core.

Details of the entrance lobby and residential amenities will be developed at subsequent stages of design development in line with guidance from Part M.

Residential entrance

Non-residential entrance

Cycle entrance

Internal accessible route

Passenger lift

Evacuation lift

Fire-fighting lift

Dual evac/fire-fighting lift

Ramps

Steps

Escape stairs

Cycle store

Accessible cycle store

Blue badge bays

Drop-off point

WB04 - Ground Floor

WB04 - Lower Ground Floor

‘Accessible and adaptable dwellings’, M4(3) standards

The following features are the minimum access provisions required by Building Regulations requirement M4(2) ‘accessible and adaptable dwellings’, which the proposed dwellings have been designed to meet. Further design development will ensure full compliance with these standards.

1. Private entrances: All dwellings are accessed from internal corridors and have a level landing of at least 1200x1200mm in front of entrance doors.

2. Private entrance doors: These have a minimum clear opening width of 850mm, with a 300mm nib on the leading edge maintained for a minimum 1200mm beyond the door, not recessed by more than 200mm. All thresholds will be accessible.

3. Doors to balconies: These have a minimum clear opening width of 850mm, with a 300mm nib on the leading edge maintained for a minimum 1200mm beyond the door. Where sliding doors to balconies are provided, a 300mm nib is provided on both sides.

4. Corridors: These are generally 1050mm wide and not less than 900mm wide in any case.

5. Internal doors: These have a clear opening width of 750/775/800mm depending on their approach, with a 300mm nib on the leading edge.

6. Kitchens: These have a 1200mm clear space in front of all kitchen units. Washing machines are located away from the kitchen area within a utility cupboard. A 1200mm clear space is provided in front of the washing machine.

7. Bedrooms: These have a clear access route of 750mm from doorway to window. The main double bedrooms have a clear access zone of 750mm to both sides of, and at the foot of the bed. Other double bedrooms have a clear access zone of 750mm to one side of, and at the foot of the bed. Single bedrooms have a clear access zone of 750mm to one side of the bed.

8. Bathrooms: All dwellings have a bathroom that contains a WC, a basin, and a potential level access shower that meet the provisions of Diagram 2.5 of Part M Vol.1. Doors to these bathrooms open outwards. Details of the potential level access shower will be developed at a later stage.

7.2 Accessibility

‘Wheelchair user dwellings’, M4(3) standards

The following features are the minimum access provisions required by Building Regulations requirement M4(3)’ wheelchair user dwellings’, which the proposed dwellings have been designed to meet. Further design development will ensure full compliance with these standards.

1. Private entrances: All dwellings are accessed from internal corridors and have a level landing of at least 1500x1500mm in front of entrance doors and a 1500mm turning circle in the inside entrance area.

2. Private entrance doors: These have a minimum clear opening width of 850mm, with a 300mm nib on the leading edge maintained for a minimum 1800mm beyond the door. Entrance doors are not recessed by more than 200mm and all thresholds are accessible.

3. Doors to balconies: These have a minimum clear opening width of 850mm, with a 300mm nib on the leading edge maintained for a minimum 1800mm beyond the door. A 300mm nib is provided on both sides, and sliding doors to the balcony are provided. Balconies have a minimum width of 1500mm.

4. Corridors: These are at least 1050mm wide and 1200mm where the approach to a doorway is not head-on.

5. Internal doors: These have a clear opening width of 850mm, with a 300mm nib on the leading edge and a 200mm nib on the following edge.

6. Wheelchair storage and transfer space: This space is 1100mm deep by 1700mm wide and is accessed from a space 1200mm wide located close to the entrance.

7. General built-in storage: Provided in accordance with Table 3.1 of Part M Vol.1.

8. Living areas: All M4(3) dwellings are single-storey so locate the living area at entrance level. The minimum combined floor area for living, dining, and kitchen space is in accordance with Table 3.2 of Part M Vol.1.

9. Kitchens: These have a 1500mm clear space in front of all kitchen units. The kitchen worktop length, including fittings and appliances, is in accordance with Table 3.3 of Part M Vol.1, and layouts demonstrate how the kitchen worktop can be easily enlarged to meet Table 3.4 of Part M Vol.1.

10. Main double bedroom: These have a clear access zone of 1000mm to both sides of, and at the foot of the bed, a clear access route of 750mm from the doorway to the window, and a clear access zone of 1000mm in front of all furniture. There is a 1200x1200mm manoeuvring space inside the doorway and on both sides of the bed. The minimum floor area of double bedrooms is 13.5m², and they have a width of at least 3m.

11. Other double bedroom: These have a clear access zone of 1000mm to both sides of, and at the foot of the bed, and a clear access route of 750mm from the doorway to the window, and a clear access zone of 1000mm in front of all furniture. There is a 1200x1200mm manoeuvring space inside the doorway. The minimum floor area is 12.5m² and they have a width of at least 3m.

12. Single bedrooms: These have a clear access zone of 1000mm on one side of the bed, a clear access route of 750mm from the doorway to the window, and a clear access zone of 1000mm in front of all furniture. A 1200x1200mm manoeuvring space inside the doorway is provided. The minimum floor area is 8.5m², with a minimum width of 2.4m.

13. Bathrooms: All M4(3) dwellings have a bathroom that contains a WC, a basin, and a level access shower that meets the provisions of Diagram 3.10 of Part M Vol.1, and layouts demonstrate how the bathrooms can be easily adapted in future to meet the provisions of Diagram 3.11 of Approved Document M Vol.1. Details of the level access shower will be developed at a later stage. Doors to these bathrooms open outwards.

14. Second WC: All M4(3) dwellings for four persons or more have a second WC with an outward-opening door.

► Refer to section 8.2 of this document for detailed layouts

Accessibility

7.2.3

WB05 Residential

Entrances

The main residential entrance to WB05 is from Aisgill Gardens and through the communal courtyard between the buildings. Entrances will be easily recognisable with no obstructions on approach that may present a hazard to visually impaired people.

At the Ground Floor of WB05-T2, there is also access to a new Community space, and at the Ground Floor of T1 there is access to the Flexible Commercial unit and to the public toilets that serve the masterplan.

All entrances will be step-free with accessible thresholds, with a level landing of at least 1500x1500 mm immediately in front of the entrances, and no obstructions on its approach that may present a hazard to visually impaired people.

All entrances will be designed to meet the guidance of Part M either Volume 1 or 2. Entrance doors to non-residential uses will provide a clear opening width of at least 1000mm through single-leaf doors or one leaf in double-leaf doors, and residential entrance doors will provide a clear opening width of at least 850 mm through single-leaf doors or one leaf in double-leaf doors.

Further details such as manifestation and opening force, will be subject to detailed design and are expected to comply with Part M Volume 1 or 2 standards and guidance from BS8300.

Residential communal entrances lead to lobbies from which from there residents’ can access the lift core. Details of the lobby will be developed at subsequent stages of design development following the guidance from Part M Vol. 2.

Residential entrance

Non-residential entrance

Cycle entrance

Emergency exit

Internal accessible route

Dual evac/fire-fighting lift

Cycle lift

Escape stairs

WC’s

Changing Place toilet

Cycle store

Accessible cycle store

Blue badge bays

Accessibility

WB05 Residential

‘Accessible and adaptable dwellings’, M4(2) standards

The following features are the minimum access provisions required by Building Regulations requirement M4(2) ‘accessible and adaptable dwellings’, which the proposed dwellings have been designed in accordance with. Further design development will ensure full compliance with these standards.

1. Private entrances - are covered as all dwellings are accessed from internal corridors, and have a level landing of minimum 1200x1200mm in front of entrance doors.

2. Private entrance doors - have a minimum clear opening width of 850mm, and 300mm nib on the leading edge maintained for a minimum 1200mm beyond the door, and are not recessed by more than 200mm. All thresholds are accessible.

3. Doors to balconies - have a minimum clear opening width of 850mm, and 300mm nib on the leading edge maintained for a minimum 1200mm beyond the door. Where sliding doors to the balcony are provided, a 300mm nib is provided on both sides.

4. Corridors - are generally 1050mm wide, and not less than 900mm wide in any case.

5. Internal doors - have a clear opening width of 750/775/800mm depending on their approach, with a 300mm nib on the leading edge.

6. Kitchens - have a 1200mm clear space in front of all kitchen units. Washing machines are located outside the kitchen area within the utility cupboard. A 1200mm clear space is provided in front of the washing machine.

7. Bedrooms - have a clear access route of 750mm from the doorway to the window. Main double bedrooms have a clear access zone of 750mm to both sides of, and at the foot of the bed Other double bedrooms have a clear access zone of 750mm to one side and at the foot of the bed. Single bedrooms have a clear access zone of 750mm on one side of the bed.

8. Bathrooms - all dwellings have a bathroom that contains a WC, a basin and a potential level access shower that meet the provisions of Diagram 2.5 of Part M Vol.1. Doors to these bathrooms open outwards. Details of the potential level access shower will be developed at a later stage.

7.2 Accessibility

7.2.3 WB05

‘Wheelchair user dwellings’, M4(3) standards

The following features are the minimum access provisions required by Building Regulations Approved Documents M4(3) ‘wheelchair user dwellings’, to which the proposed dwellings have been designed. Further design development will ensure full compliance with these standards.

1. Private entrances - are covered as all dwellings are accessed from internal corridors, and have a level landing of minimum 1500x1500mm in front of entrance doors and a 1500mm turning circle on the inside entrance area. Lighting is not yet detailed but is expected to be provided.

2. Private entrance doors - have a minimum clear opening width of 850mm, and 300mm nib on the leading edge maintained 1800mm beyond the door. Entrance doors are not recessed by more than 200mm and all thresholds are accessible.

3. Doors to balconies - have a minimum clear opening width of 850mm, and 300mm nib on the leading edge maintained 1800mm beyond the door. Where sliding doors to the balcony are provided, a 300mm nib is provided on both sides. Balconies have a minimum width of 1500mm.

4. Corridors - are minimum 1050mm wide, and 1200mm where the approach to a doorway is not head-on.

5. Internal doors - have a clear opening width of 850mm, with a 300mm nib on the leading edge and a 200mm nib on the following edge.

6. Wheelchair storage and transfer space of 1100mm deep by 1700mm wide, accessed from a space 1200mm wide, is located close to the entrance.

7. General built-in storage - is provided in accordance with Table 3.1 of Part M, Vol.1.

8. Living areas - All M4(3) dwellings are single-storey and have the living area at the entrance storey. The minimum combined floor area for living, dining and kitchen space is in accordance with Table 3.2 of Part M, Vol.1.

9. Kitchens - have a 1500mm clear space in front of all kitchen units. The kitchen worktop length, including fittings and appliances, is in accordance to Table 3.3 of Part M, Vol.1, and layouts demonstrate how the kitchen worktop can be easily enlarged to meet Table 3.4 of Part M, Vol.1.

10. Main double bedroom - have a clear access zone of 1000mm to both sides of and at the foot of the bed, a clear access route of 750mm from the doorway to the window, and a clear access zone of 1000mm in front of all furniture. There is a 1200x1200mm manoeuvring space inside the doorway and on both sides of the bed. Minimum floor area of double bedrooms is 13.5m2 and have a width of at least 3m.

11. Other double bedroom - have a clear access zone of 1000mm to one side of and at the foot of the bed, a clear access route of 750mm from the doorway to the window, and a clear access zone of 1000mm in front of all furniture. There is a 1200x1200mm manoeuvring space inside the doorway. Minimum floor area is 12.5m2 and have a width of at least 3m.

12. Single bedrooms - have a clear access zone of 1000mm on one side of the bed, a clear access route of 750mm from the doorway to the window, and a clear access zone of 1000mm in front of all furniture. There is a 1200x1200mm manoeuvring space inside the doorway. Minimum floor area is 8.5m2 and have a width of at least 2.4m.

13. Bathrooms - all M4(3) dwellings have a bathroom that contains a WC, a basin and a level access shower that meet the provisions of Diagram 3.10 of Part M Vol.1, and layouts demonstrate how the bathrooms can be easily adapted in future to meet the provisions of Diagram 3.11 of Part M Vol. 1. Details of the level access shower will be developed at a later stage. Doors to these bathrooms open outwards.

Fire Safety

The LBHF Detailed Component has been designed to satisfy the requirements of Approved Document B of the Building Regulations 2010, Construction Design and Management Regulations 2015 (CDM) and the management requirements of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO).

Key design elements included to meet recent guidance and regulatory changes include the provision of two staircases in each residential building, evacuation lifts and evacuation lift lobbies in each building and façades meeting Regulation 7(2) of the Building Regulations 2010 (as amended). Sprinklers are provided throughout all the buildings.

The fire strategy has been developed to account for building undercroft conditions than have influenced the fire tender access and operation strategy shown in Figures 1 & 2.

WB04 and WB05 will operate a stay put evacuation strategy. WB03 and the nonresidential uses will operate a simultaneous (per building/area) evacuation regime where each demise will evacuate independently. The life safety systems and provisions in the fire strategy will support both the stay-put and simultaneous evacuation strategy.

The buildings are designed to meet the prevailing fire safety standards which will include fire fighting shafts with fire fighting lifts, automatic fire detection and alarm systems, Evacuation Alert Systems (EAS), smoke control systems, fire suppression systems, emergency lighting, signage and power.

The structure of each building will be designed to achieve the required standard of fire resistance with internal compartmentalisation and linings to prevent fire spread and protect escape routes. The façade of each building including the commercial areas at podium level will meet Regulation 7(2) of the Building Regulations 2010 (as amended).

Given the heights of WB03 and WB04 exceed 50m, in line with recommendations in BS 9999 and BS 9991, a Qualitative Design Review (QDR) will be carried out. This will be a live process which develops as the design progresses. An initial review to determine use of code-based and performance-based solutions has been undertaken, and documented within a QDR summary.

An introductory meeting with Building Safety Regulator (BSR) who are part of the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) was held on 29/06/2023 to introduce the Proposed Development, and a further pre-application meeting was held on 26/03/2024 at which the design for the LBHF Detailed Component was presented. Feedback was received from the BSR following each meeting and the design developed accordingly.

As the design progresses beyond Planning Gateway 1, the fire strategy and associated design will be the subject of reviews and regular meetings with Socotec. As the regulatory approver, the BSR will lead the engagement process with the London Fire Brigade (both the Fire Engineering Group and the inspections team).

Further information can be found in the London Plan fire statements for each plot, as well as the Planning Gateway One Fire Statement for the LBHF Detailed Component, which includes the QDR summary.

The fire tender will gain access to WB05 buildings, and local areas of the podium of WB04, from Aisgill Avenue, into Aisgill Gardens. Aisgill Gardens is generally a vehicle free environment.

Fire tender access to WB05 and the Lower Ground Floor of WB04 is from Aisgill Gardens, arrived at via Aisgill Avenue. Fire tender access to the Ground Floor of WB03 and WB04 is from Empress Place Boulevard.

► Further details are provided within the Fire Statement EC.LBHF.08A B C.

7.4 Overheating

Overheating / Thermal Comfort Statement

Approved Document O

In accordance with Building Regulations

Approved Document O 2021 (Part O), occupant thermal comfort conditions within proposed living spaces has been considered during the design process. Several factors contribute to overall thermal comfort performance including fabric performance, ventilation strategy, internal solar gains, occupancy profiles and external weather conditions.

GLA Policy 5.9 Overheating and Cooling

Further consideration has been given to GLA Policy 5.9 ‘Overheating and Cooling’ to inform the design process to embrace passive design measures in favour of active cooling where possible. This is demonstrated in the GLA Cooling hierarchy.

Compliance with Part O Requirement O1 is demonstrated using the dynamic thermal modelling method.

The risk of overheating within sample apartments selected has been assessed using the thermal comfort criteria within the methodology set out in CIBSE Technical Memorandum 59 (TM59): ‘Design methodology for the assessment of overheating risk in homes’ with the principles and restrictions of Part O applied.

The proposed design was modelled in a virtual environment software with assigned parameters provided by plot façade consultants and with MEP engineer input.

Acoustic Considerations

An acoustic model was produced based on the acoustic noise survey for the site and it is expected the loudest noise levels will occur outside the façades overlooking the surrounding roads and railway tracks.

The Site is affected by the flight path into Heathrow. The external noise levels predicted on façades exceed proposed external limits, therefore it will not be possible to satisfy the internal noise requirements of Part O of the Building Regulations with an overheating mitigation strategy that relies solely on openable windows.

Therefore an adaptive approach utilising both passive design and active mechanical ventilation will be utilised across the site to varying degrees depending on plot specific contextual constraints.

Cooling hierarchy adapted from GLA London Plan showing the priority for actions to mitigate overheating

Iterative solar exposure model test

Overheating

Design development methodology

In collaboration with Hoare Lea Sustainability consultants, an iterative design process was employed to develop proposals across all plots for the optimisation of internal daylighting, energy usage and overheating mitigation.

During this process, the following measures have been developed and adopted to meet the challenge of overheating through both carefully considered passive design.

Passive measures include:

• Habitable dual aspect dwellings for enhanced cross-ventilation in WB04 and WB05, and WB03 cluster flat kitchen / living areas.

• Deep window reveals to provide additional shading (all plots).

• Recessed balconies to provide additional shading (WB04/WB05).

• Limiting glazing ratios to limit solar gain (all plots).

• Integral external shading to window openings for dwellings at higher risk of overheating (WB05).

Active measures include:

• Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) air tempering (all plots)

• Comfort

(all

homes)

7.5

Sustainability

WB03 Student Accommodation

Beyond Net Zero Carbon

The Proposed Development aspires to set a new standard in sustainable urban living, aligning with the Greater London Authority’s Net Zero Carbon requirements, and surpassing existing environmental policy benchmarks. This ambitious project is not only focused on the carbon footprint of its buildings, but extends its commitment to reducing emissions in all aspects of the development.

WB03 aims to achieve a 1.66% reduction in CO2 emissions through passive design and energy efficiency measures (‘Be Lean’) and an overall 60.56% reduction through connection to the Site-wide ‘5th generation ambient energy network’, significantly improving on ‘business as usual’.

The design of WB03 uses Passivhaus principles where possible, aiming at high environmental performance for residential uses.

Delivering Clean Air

The Proposed Development aspires to set a new benchmark in urban air quality, targeting a healthier environment both on-site and in the surrounding community. By targeting pollutant levels that are at least 10% lower than the Borough averages, the project emphasises its commitment to a cleaner, greener future.

A key feature of the Earls Court Development’s strategy is the absence of combustion-based plant and equipment for daily operations (other than life safety systems such as emergency generators, which will utilise sustainable biofuels). This approach eliminates a major source of air pollutants. As such, WB03 proposes no combustion plant.

Circular Resource Use

The Earls Court Development is committed to sustainable practices that prioritise the responsible use and reuse of resources, embodying principles of durability, disassembly, re-use, and adaptability. Where possible and to suit the requirements of the site, existing buildings and structures will be retained on-site, including the Table structure and the Victorian façades of Empress Place.

Materials will be used which minimise carbon impacts, targeting 20% of materials that are reused and/or contain recycled content. WB03 aims to achieve 614kg CO2/m2 of upfront embodied carbon emissions, significantly improving on ‘business as usual’.

Healthy Living

The Earls Court Development is seeking to redefine urban living by creating spaces that resonate positively with individuals and the community at large. This initiative is deeply rooted in an inclusive design philosophy guided by the insights from the ‘Public Realm Inclusivity

Panel’ (‘PRIP’), which hosted 22 workshops to shape the design and functionality of the public realm. The project team will continue to work with the PRIP to interrogate, critique and refine design principles.

WB03 has undertaken detailed overheating risk analysis to inform and optimise the design. Through a series of external shading measures such as recessed glazing, together with boosting the MVHR unit and introducing limited active cooling, compliance with DSY1 2020 weather file is achieved as per Part O requirements. Compliance with the DSY2 and DSY3 2020 2050 weather files is also achieved, demonstrating resilience against future climate scenarios

Celebrating Nature

The Earls Court Development intends to make a profound impact on biodiversity and natural ecosystems, surpassing regulatory requirements and setting a new standard for environmental stewardship. With a commitment to achieving a Biodiversity Net Gain of >85%, well above the Environment Act’s mandated 10%, the project demonstrates a resolute dedication to preserving and enhancing natural habitats.

WB03 targets an Urban Greening Factor of 0.558, which will be met through a combination of rain gardens, extensive green roof, trees, and intensive green roof. These measures will contribute to the Urban Greening Factor of the Site beyond the current baseline to >0.4 across the whole Site.

The Earls Court Development is set to pioneer a comprehensive ‘water neutral’ management strategy that integrates seamlessly across both public and private spaces, significantly reducing environmental impact. This strategy includes minimising site water run-off and maximising water capture and reuse, ensuring a sustainable approach to urban development.

WB03 will look to include a combination of efficient fittings to achieve an overall water consumption of 105l/p/d.

WB03 will aim to further limit water usage to 80l/p/d, which is 24% better than Building Regulations, through the use of a combination of low flow fittings, rainwater harvesting and, where appropriate, greywater recycling.

Certifications

The Earls Court Development is committed to achieving recognised and verified sustainability ratings, ensuring a high standard of environmental performance and occupant wellbeing. Rigorous assessments will be conducted using reputable certification schemes.

WB03 aims to achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’ for non-residential buildings with a pre-assessment score of 74.35% for the Student Accommodation and 74.41% for the Podium spaces, which is inline with local policy.

WB04 Residential 7.5 Sustainability

Beyond Net Zero Carbon

The Proposed Development aspires to set a new standard in sustainable urban living, aligning with the Greater London Authority’s Net Zero Carbon requirements, and surpassing existing environmental policy benchmarks. This ambitious project is not only focused on the carbon footprint of its buildings, but extends its commitment to reducing emissions in all aspects of the development.

WB04 aims to achieve a 25.27% reduction in CO2 emissions through passive design and energy efficiency measures (‘Be Lean’) and an overall 68.24% reduction through connection to the Site-wide ‘5th generation ambient energy network’, significantly improving on ‘business as usual’.

The design of WB04 uses Passivhaus principles where possible, aiming at high environmental performance for residential uses.

Delivering Clean Air

The Proposed Development aspires to set a new benchmark in urban air quality, targeting a healthier environment both on-site and in the surrounding community. By targeting pollutant levels that are at least 10% lower than the Borough averages, the project emphasises its commitment to a cleaner, greener future.

A key feature of the Earls Court Development’s strategy is the absence of combustion-based

plant and equipment for daily operations (other than life safety systems such as emergency generators, which will utilise sustainable biofuels). This approach eliminates a major source of air pollutants. As such, WB04 proposes no combustion plant.

Circular Resource Use

The Earls Court Development is committed to sustainable practices that prioritise the responsible use and reuse of resources, embodying principles of durability, disassembly, re-use, and adaptability. Where possible and to suit the requirements of the site, existing buildings and structures will be retained on-site, including the Table structure and the Victorian façades of Empress Place.

Materials will be used which minimise carbon impacts, targeting 20% of materials that are reused and/or contain recycled content. WB04 aims to achieve 596kg CO2/m2 of upfront embodied carbon emissions, significantly improving on ‘business as usual’.

Healthy Living

The Earls Court Development is seeking to redefine urban living by creating spaces that resonate positively with individuals and the community at large. This initiative is deeply rooted in an inclusive design philosophy guided by the insights from the ‘Public Realm Inclusivity Panel’ (‘PRIP’), which hosted 22 workshops to shape the design and functionality of the public

realm. We will continue to work with the PRIP to interrogate, critique and refine design principles.

WB04 has undertaken detailed overheating risk analysis to inform and optimise the design. Through a series of external shading measures such as recessed glazing and balconies, together with boosting the MVHR unit and introducing limited active cooling, compliance with DSY1 2020 weather file is achieved as per Part O requirements. Compliance with the DSY2 and DSY3 2020 2050 weather files is also achieved, demonstrating resilience against future climate scenarios.

Water Neutral

The Earls Court Development is set to pioneer a comprehensive ‘water neutral’ management strategy that integrates seamlessly across both public and private spaces, significantly reducing environmental impact. This strategy includes minimising site water run-off and maximising water capture and reuse, ensuring a sustainable approach to urban development.

WB04 will look to include a combination of efficient fittings to achieve an overall water consumption of 105l/p/d.

WB04 will aim to further limit water usage to 80l/p/d, which is 24% better than Building Regulations, through the use of a combination of low flow fittings, rainwater harvesting and, where appropriate, greywater recycling.

Celebrating Nature

The Earls Court Development intends to make a profound impact on biodiversity and natural ecosystems, surpassing regulatory requirements and setting a new standard for environmental stewardship. With a commitment to achieving a Biodiversity Net Gain of >85%, well above the Environment Act’s mandated 10%, the project demonstrates a resolute dedication to preserving and enhancing natural habitats.

WB04 targets an Urban Greening Factor of 0.366, which will be met through a combination of sedum green roof, green wall, trees and intensive green roof. These measures will contribute to the Urban Greening Factor of the Site beyond the current baseline to >0.4 across the whole Site.

Certifications

The Earls Court Development is committed to achieving recognised and verified sustainability ratings, ensuring a high standard of environmental performance and occupant wellbeing. Rigorous assessments will be conducted using reputable certification schemes. WB04 will undertake a HQM Assessment with a base of HQM 4*and is currently achieving a preassessment score of 298. WB04 will also aspire to achieve HQM 5*. WB04 aims to achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’ for non-residential buildings with a pre-assessment score of 74.41%, which is in-line with local policy.

WB05 Residential 7.5 Sustainability

Beyond Net Zero Carbon

The Proposed Development aspires to set a new standard in sustainable urban living, aligning with the Greater London Authority’s Net Zero Carbon requirements, and surpassing existing environmental policy benchmarks. This ambitious project is not only focused on the carbon footprint of its buildings, but extends its commitment to reducing emissions in all aspects of the development.

WB05 aims to achieve a 20.7% reduction in CO2 emissions through passive design and energy efficiency measures (‘Be Lean’) and an overall 71.3% reduction through connection to the Site-wide ‘5th generation ambient energy network’, significantly improving on ‘business as usual’.

The design of WB05 uses Passivhaus principles where possible, aiming at high environmental performance for residential uses.

Delivering Clean Air

The Proposed Development aspires to set a new benchmark in urban air quality, targeting a healthier environment both on-site and in the surrounding community. By targeting pollutant levels that are at least 10% lower than the Borough averages, the project emphasises its commitment to a cleaner, greener future.

A key feature of the Earls Court Development’s strategy is the absence of combustion-based

plant and equipment for daily operations (other than life safety systems such as emergency generators, which will utilise sustainable biofuels). This approach eliminates a major source of air pollutants. As such, WB05 proposes no combustion plant.

Circular Resource Use

The Earls Court Development is committed to sustainable practices that prioritise the responsible use and reuse of resources, embodying principles of durability, disassembly, re-use, and adaptability. Where possible and to suit the requirements of the site, existing buildings and structures will be retained on-site, including the Table structure and the Victorian façades of Empress Place.

Materials will be used which minimise carbon impacts, targeting 20% of materials that are reused and/or contain recycled content. WB05 aims to achieve 580kg CO2/m2 of upfront embodied carbon emissions, significantly improving on ‘business as usual’.

Healthy Living

The Earls Court Development is seeking to redefine urban living by creating spaces that resonate positively with individuals and the community at large. This initiative is deeply rooted in an inclusive design philosophy guided by the insights from the ‘Public Realm Inclusion Panel’ (‘PRIP’), which hosted 22 workshops to shape the design and functionality of the public

realm. We will continue to work with the PRIP to interrogate, critique and refine design principles.

WB05 has undertaken detailed overheating risk analysis to inform and optimise the design. Through a series of external shading measures such as recessed glazing and balconies, together with boosting the MVHR unit and introducing limited active cooling, compliance with DSY1 2020 weather file is achieved as per Part O requirements. Compliance with the DSY2 and DSY3 2020 2050 weather files is also achieved, demonstrating resilience against future climate scenarios

Water Neutral

The Earls Court Development is set to pioneer a comprehensive ‘water neutral’ management strategy that integrates seamlessly across both public and private spaces, significantly reducing environmental impact. This strategy includes minimising site water run-off and maximising water capture and reuse, ensuring a sustainable approach to urban development.

WB05 will look to include a combination of efficient fittings to achieve an overall water consumption of 105l/p/d.

WB05 will aim to further limit water usage to 80l/p/d, which is 24% better than Building Regulations, through the use of a combination of low flow fittings, rainwater harvesting and, where appropriate, greywater recycling.

Celebrating Nature

The Earls Court Development intends to make a profound impact on biodiversity and natural ecosystems, surpassing regulatory requirements and setting a new standard for environmental stewardship. With a commitment to achieving a Biodiversity Net Gain of >85%, well above the Environment Act’s mandated 10%, the project demonstrates a resolute dedication to preserving and enhancing natural habitats.

WB05 targets an Urban Greening Factor of 0.224, which will be met through a combination of permeable paving, green wall, flower-rich perennial planting, trees, and intensive green roof. These measures will contribute to the Urban Greening Factor of the Site beyond the current baseline to >0.4 across the whole Site.

Certifications

The Earls Court Development is committed to achieving recognised and verified sustainability ratings, ensuring a high standard of environmental performance and occupant wellbeing. Rigorous assessments will be conducted using reputable certification schemes. WB05 will undertake a HQM Assessment with a base of HQM 4*and is currently achieving a preassessment score of 298. WB05 will also aspire to achieve HQM 5*. WB05 aims to achieve BREEAM ‘Excellent’ for non-residential buildings with a pre-assessment score of 74.41%, which is in-line with local policy.

7.6 Daylight

Daylight, sunlight and overshadowing have been carefully considered to enhance the quality of the proposed residential homes and shared amenity. This has been achieved through a process of technical evaluations, feedback, and design adjustments.

The design faces typical challenges for a project of this size and complexity. A balance has been sought between daylight performance, provision of private balconies, and overheating concerns.

The design has been adjusted after testing many options to ensure occupants get the greatest possible access to natural light. The results, shown here in Figure 1 demonstrate an optimized design for daylight, sunlight, and minimizing shadows, achieved through a collaborative and iterative process.

In relation to daylight, the overall performance of the LBHF Detailed Component is good with 78% of the rooms meeting recommended levels of daylight.

Sunlight access is also good with 73% of the residential dwellings seeing the recommended solar exposure level. Within the student accommodation, a combination of studios and cluster flats with shared facilities is provided. With the exception of five, all cluster flats meet recommended levels of sunlight within the shared kitchen/dining spaces and 42% of studios meet the recommended solar exposure. All students have however, access to the recommended levels of sunlight within the shared amenity provided on L29, as well as on the open rooftop terraces.

Overall levels of daylight and sunlight within proposed habitable rooms are generally good considering the buildings’ typology, density and setting.

The scheme will also provide future occupants and users of the site with access to healthy levels of sunlight in the proposed amenity areas.

► Further details are provided within GIA’s Internal Daylight Sunlight and Overshadowing reports EC.PA.42 and EC.PA.43.

► Further details are provided within the Amenity within the site: Internal daylight, sunlight, overshadowing assessment WB03, WB04, WB05. EC.LBHF.07.

Fig 1. An iterative test of the sun hours on ground - courtyard and podium level amenity

7.7 Façade Access & Maintenance

WB03 & WB04

The façade access strategy for WB03 & WB04 is via a single Building Maintenance Unit (BMU) located at each roof level.

The BMU’s shall be of a ‘pantograph’ design to allow it to extend over the parapet when in use, and be hidden below the parapet when in its parked condition.

The BMU’s will be equipped with all necessary powered functions like jib slewing and jib head slewing to align the suspended platform with the building façades.

The systems will be complete with restraint pins located on the façade at certain levels to enable the cradle to be tied back to the building in accordance with BS 1808 requirements.

Low level areas at ground or podium level are to be cleaned via a reach and wash system by the building maintenance team.

Both BMU’s will be designed with an auxiliary winch to allow for glazing replacement where possible.

Recessed terrace glazing on WB04 is to be cleaned via the resident or resident appointed cleaning service.

7.7 Façade Access & Maintenance

The residential windows in both T1 and T2 are designed to allow for internal cleaning by the resident.

Resident cleaning external face of fixed glazing section though the openable section

5. Access Elevations

Every window not on a balcony or terrace will have an inward openable glazed portion to allow the resident to slightly lean out and clean the fixed portion of the glazing with the use of a small, extendable, commercially available cleaning tool.

5. Access Elevations

To allow this to be carried out safely, a 1100mm high transom will be integrated in the window design to give residents protection from falling.

Resident cleaning external face of terrace glazing from balcony

Resident cleaning internal face of openable glazing section

Extendable cleaning tool to allow for internal cleaning by the resident

1100mm transom provide safety for the resident when cleaning

Diagram showing fixed glazed panel

7.8

Security Strategy

Safety and security play an important role in promoting healthy and thriving communities. The proposals have sought to introduce natural surveillance principles within the design. Guidance has been taken from ‘Secured by Design Homes 2019’ and Approved Document Q of the Building Regulations has been adhered to.

Active Ground Floor frontage

Residential building entrance lobbies, shop frontages, and other non-residential uses, are located at the Ground Floor and distributed throughout the site to ensure active surveillance. Plant, refuse and ancillary / non-active frontage is generally located along the Service Access Road, reducing risk of a negative street presence.

Clear Public Realm

A clear distinction between public and private, and a coherent design of public realm will ensure that routes will be clearly identifiable, visually open, direct and well used.

Secure Entrances

All of the buildings have their primary entrances from active public realm areas.

WB03 and WB04 both have their primary entrances from Empress Place Boulevard into prominent and active residential lobbies. Both buildings also have a secondary entrance via the Service Access Road, which has restricted

access via a secured and access controlled gate adjacent to WB02.

WB05 is accessed via residential entrances in a private, gated and well-overlooked courtyard accessed from Aisgill Gardens. The courtyard also has a secondary entrance from the secure Service Access Road.

Cycle Storage

Residential cycle stores will be provided in accordance with the London Plan. A combination of Access Control and CCTV measures will be employed to reduce the risk of theft or damage, with the principle of compartmentalising cycle stores to a maximum of 150 cycles per store targeted.

Access Control

In line with Secured by Design requirements, access control is to be provided on both the inner lobby doors, and entry doors to lift lobbies –limiting the access per floor for each building.

Deliveries

WB03 and WB04 utilise a secured secondary lobby at Lower Ground level for deliveries via vehicles and will employ a combination of ‘Delivery to door’ and ‘Meet & Greet’ strategies to complete deliveries, with the addition of delivery storage rooms at this level.

► Refer to Transport Statement for further information on the Service Access Road.

Key

Pedestrian route

Cycle route

Vehicle routes / drop-off point

Vehicle routes beyond security line

Future Vehicle routes

Primary Vehicle route

Emergency Vehicle Access

Pedestrian routes and primary entrances, delivery routes and secondary entrances

Lighting Strategy

A Lighting Strategy Report has been prepared as part of the Hybrid Application, which sets out the lighting strategy across the masterplan.

The strategies within the Lighting Strategy have informed the initial development of landscape lighting proposals for the LBHF Detailed Component, which are summarised on this page.

Initial lighting concepts have been developed, however design of external lighting for all plots will be developed during the next design stages and will be closely coordinated with the masterplan and public realm.

The lighting design will take into consideration requirements such as safety and security, aesthetic enhancement of architectural and landscape features, light pollution mitigation, impact on nature, sustainable design solutions, and aviation safety considerations.

► Refer to Lighting Strategy Report within the DAS Volume 1 Outline Component (EC. PA.08)

► Refer to Chapter 6.6 for further information on landscape lighting.

WB04 Waterfall lighting concept image

Hybrid Application Lighting Strategy - Colour

7.10 Microclimate

The wind and microclimate performance of the LBHF Detailed Component has been assessed together with the Outline Component of the masterplan, to ensure public realm and amenity areas are safe and comfortable.

Throughout the design process, wind and microclimate software was used to assess the emerging scheme, allowing the Design Team to iteratively determine optimal massing arrangements. Wind tunnel testing has been undertaken as part of the Environmental Impact Assessment for the Hybrid Application.

Testing results conclude that with the addition of proposed landscaping and wind mitigation measures, safe and comfortable wind conditions suitable for the intended uses of each space are achieved for all areas of WB03 and WB05, and the most areas of WB04.

► For confirmation of results and more information, refer to the Environmental Statement - EC.PA.12

Proposed early phases with existing surrounding buildings (Detailed Component elevated levels summer season)

Wind tunnel testing facility - Detailed Component with All Phases Outline Component and cumulative surrounding buildings (view from the west)

Proposed all phases with existing surrounding buildings (Ground Level summer season)

Proposed

phases with existing surrounding buildings (Ground Level windiest season)

8 Conclusion

8.1 Conclusion

Vision and strategic opportunity response

The proposals for WB03, WB04 and WB05 are a thoughtfully curated architectural response to the vision of bringing the wonder back. The first buildings to be delivered in LBHF will set the benchmark for the future development, establishing the place that is Earls Court and responding to the legacy of Earls Court.

Designed to perform highly against the relevant policies and design guides, the proposals will be an important component of delivering on the requirements of both the Earls Court and West Kensington Opportunity Area and the LBHF site allocation within the Local Plan.

Collectively, 462 homes will be delivered in WB04 and WB05, playing an important role in delivering against housing targets for both the borough and London.

The approach to WB03, WB04 and WB05 strives for design excellence through meeting the design principles. The homes, bustling boulevard and play spaces will bring a New West Side Story and the approach to delivering truly sustainable design through the petal form of WB04. Choice of materials and bio-diversity of the landscaped areas demonstrate the commitment to Being Good Ancestors.

The shops, restaurants, cafes, new Community Hub and homes for every stage of life will truly make this an Earls Court for Everyone.

8.1 Conclusion

Informed by genuine engagement and conversation

The design has been shaped and informed by extensive consultation with the local community, local authority, the GLA as well as other key stakeholders such as Historic England and the Health & Safety Executive.

Throughout the design process, the massing, site layout and detailed design elements have developed through a genuine process of engagement.

The architecture and materiality have been developed through a detailed understanding of the site’s context, history, and the surrounding neighbourhood. The materials proposed are robust, of high quality and designed to reinforce the elegance and timeless nature of the design. The proposals have been positively received during engagement and consultation.

8.1 Conclusion

A celebration of nature and its ability to connect and revive

WB03, WB04 and WB05 all play a key role in embedding nature into the development. From the green roofs, planted terraces and landscaped gardens, greenery will flow from the top of the buildings down into the public realm, and onwards through the network of Exhibition Gardens.

The range of gardens, terraces and green roofs will provide spaces for social interaction and wellbeing as well as providing sustenance for the natural world through a considered planting strategy. The quantum of green spaces provided will deliver significant Biodiversity Net Gains of 187% for WB03, 388% for WB04 and 133% for WB05. The proposals include an extensive green roof on the WB03 podium, a densely planted podium garden for WB04 including grow gardens, and a courtyard garden for WB05 with a focus on an inclusive play area alongside biodiverse planting.

WB03, WB04 and WB05 all benefit from direct access into the masterplan landscape. WB03 and WB04 sit adjacent to the Table Park, whilst WB05 benefits from direct access out into Aisgill Gardens and the Cascades.

8.1 Conclusion

A cultural ecosystem for the future of talent

WB03, WB04 and WB05 all have active uses at Ground Level, creating a lively and diverse streetscape from the southern end of Empress Place Boulevard, through to Aisgill Gardens.

The LBHF Detailed Component will provide c.2850m2 of retail, food and beverage and flexible commercial uses, as well as 1965m2 of leisure a new Community Hub of 454m2. WB03 and WB04 will activate Empress Place Boulevard and the Cascades with retail, food and beverage and leisure uses, whilst WB05 will activate Aisgill Gardens with flexible commercial and community uses.

Residents of all buildings will benefit from easy access to the amenities of the Table Park, the Cascades and Aisgill Gardens.

The design proposals take inspiration from the site’s history and heritage, and its legacy as a cultural icon for London.

8.1 Conclusion

An inspiring neighbourhood designed for all stages of life

As the first buildings in the first phase, WB03, WB04, and WB05 will set a high standard for the future of city living, creating places where families and communities can take root and thrive, delivering high quality homes that are designed to be accessible and inclusive.

WB04 and WB05 will deliver 462 high quality homes, comprising studios, 1 ,2, and 3 bedroom apartments - 100% of which are habitable dual aspect, optimising views, light and natural ventilation; embedding the concept of a place to stay and grow.

10% of homes are provided as either wheelchair accessible or adaptable designed to M4(3) standards supporting inclusive communities.

WB03 will provide 696 high-quality student bedrooms in a range of ensuite cluster flats and studios. Social spaces have been prioritised and located in the bull noses of the building which benefit from the best aspect and views.

A range of uses will be provided across the three plots including retail, food and beverage, leisure and a new Community Hub. This diverse mix will contribute towards an animated and vibrant neighbourhood , ensuring these buildings contribute towards an inspiring place to live.

8.1 Conclusion

A showcase for climate and clean innovation and skills

The Proposed Development has an ambition to be a global exemplar of sustainability. WB03, WB04 and WB05 are designed to Passivhaus principles, and all residential homes will achieve a minimum HQM 4*. All commercial floorspace will achieve BREEAM Excellent as a minimum.

WB03, WB04, and WB05 benefit from fossil fuel free zero carbon energy through connection to the ambient heat network and the adoption of air source heat pumps.

Passive design methodology has been integral to the design strategy. All homes are designed to be resilient against future climate scenarios, through maximising external shading measures and introducing limited active cooling.

All homes are designed to achieve efficient water usage levels, achieving the GLA target of 105l/p/d through adoption of efficient appliances, low flow fittings, rainwater harvesting and greywater harvesting where appropriate.

Through the buildings form, the materials chosen and zero carbon energy systems used, these buildings will truly be at the forefront of sustainable design and deliver on the principle of being good ancestors.

9 Appendices

9.1 Accommodation Schedules

Accommodation Schedules

Accommodation Schedules

Accommodation Schedules

Level WB05-T1-13 T1-2A 2B4P 3 M4(2)

WB05-T1.1403 Level WB05-T1-14 T1-1A 1B2P 2 M4(2) 50 m² 5.01

T1-1B

WB05-T1.1406 Level WB05-T1-14 T1-1A 1B2P

Accommodation Schedules

T2 - Residential unit schedule

T2-2A

Level

WB05-T2.0206 Level WB05-T2-02 T2-1A 1B2P 2

WB05-T2.0301 Level WB05-T2-03 T2-2A

T2-2B

WB05-T2.0305 Level WB05-T2-03 T2-2A 2B4P

WB05-T2.0308 Level WB05-T2-03 T2-2A

WB05-T2.0403 Level WB05-T2-04 T2-1A 1B2P

WB05-T2.0404 Level WB05-T2-04 T2-2B 2B3P Cat3

WB05-T2.0405 Level WB05-T2-04 T2-2A

WB05-T2.0406 Level WB05-T2-04 T2-1A 1B2P

WB05-T2.0407 Level WB05-T2-04 T2-1A

WB05-T2.0501 Level WB05-T2-05 T2-2A

WB05-T2.0502 Level WB05-T2-05 T2-1A

WB05-T2.0505 Level WB05-T2-05 T2-2A 2B4P

WB05-T2.0506 Level WB05-T2-05 T2-1A

Ensuite Rooms in Cluster Flats

9.2 Housing Quality

WB04 Housing Design Guidance

To ensure quality and compliance, the homes have been designed to the following guidance:

• London Plan Guidance

• Nationally Described Space Standards

• Building Regulation Approved Documents

London Plan Guidance

Housing Design Standards

* Corrected from suspected typing error of ‘One bed, three persons’ as stated in official guidance

** Instances of three bed, six persons 31sqm in proposals

*** Combination of minimum and minimum exceeded standards met across dwelling types

London Plan Guidance

B - Shared and Ancillary Spaces

Standard

B2.1 Communal circulation spaces such as corridors are 1500mm wide

C - Homes and private outside space

C1.1 90 per cent of dwellings that are required to meet M4(2) and the 10 per cent required to meet M4(3) set out in Approved Document M, Volume 1 (ADM).

C2.1 All new dwellings must meet the minimum space standard in Policy D6 Part F(1-8) and Table 3.1 of the London Plan.

C2.3 A minimum ceiling height of 2.5m is required for at least 75 per cent of the gross internal area (GIA) of each dwelling

C2.4 The following combined floor areas for living/kitchen/dining space should be met or exceeded:

One person 21 sqm

One bed, two persons 23 sqm

Two bed, three persons 25 sqm

Two bed, four persons 27 sqm

Three bed, five persons 29 sqm

Four bed, six persons 31 sqm

C2.6 The main sitting space in a home for up to two people should be at least 3m wide, and increased to 3.5m wide in homes with three or more bed spaces to achieve a functional layout.

C4.1 New homes should be dual aspect unless exceptional circumstances make this impractical or undesirable; for example, when one side of the dwelling would be subjected to excessive noise or outside air pollution.

C4.3 Recommended: All homes should allow for direct sunlight in conjunction with solar shading. As a minimum, at least one habitable room should receive direct sunlight – preferably the living area and/or the kitchen and dining space

C4.4 Recommended: Avoid placing bedrooms and bathrooms on street-facing façades at ground level or where they face onto a busy courtyard or podium.

C4.6 Avoid large wide full-height windows to habitable rooms (particularly in bedrooms) where the risk of being overlooked and/or overheating is high

C4.7 All habitable rooms (including a kitchen/dining room) should receive natural light and have at least one openable window that provides a view out when seated

C4.8 Best practice: Bathrooms should receive natural light through openable window/s.

Typical Studio apartment

Housing Quality

6.2 m²

Accessibility: M4(2)

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enquiries@sheppardrobson.com

Quality

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9.2 Housing Quality

WB05 Housing Design Guidance

To ensure quality and compliance, the homes have been designed to the following guidance:

• London Plan Guidance

• Nationally Described Space Standards

• Building Regulation Approved Documents

London Plan Guidance Housing Design Standards

* Corrected from suspected typing error of ‘One bed, three persons’ as stated in official guidance

** Solar shading provided to East, South and West facing dwellings that are prone to overheating

London Plan Guidance

B - Shared and Ancillary Spaces

B2.1 Communal circulation spaces such as corridors are 1500mm wide

C - Homes and private outside space

C1.1 90 per cent of dwellings that are required to meet M4(2) and the 10 per cent required to meet M4(3) set out in Approved Document M, Volume 1 (ADM).

C2.1 All new dwellings must meet the minimum space standard in Policy D6 Part F(1-8) and Table 3.1 of the London Plan.

C2.3 A minimum ceiling height of 2.5m is required for at least 75 per cent of the gross internal area (GIA) of each dwelling

C2.4 The following combined floor areas for living/kitchen/dining space should be met or exceeded:

One person 21 sqm

One bed, two persons 23 sqm

*

Two bed, three persons 25 sqm

Two bed, four persons 27 sqm

Three bed, five persons 29 sqm

Four bed, six persons 31 sqm

C2.6 The main sitting space in a home for up to two people should be at least 3m wide, and increased to 3.5m wide in homes with three or more bed spaces to achieve a functional layout.

C4.1 New homes should be dual aspect unless exceptional circumstances make this impractical or undesirable; for example, when one side of the dwelling would be subjected to excessive noise or outside air pollution.

C4.3 Recommended: All homes should allow for direct sunlight in conjunction with solar shading. As a minimum, at least one habitable room should receive direct sunlight – preferably the living area and/or the kitchen and dining space

C4.4 Recommended: Avoid placing bedrooms and bathrooms on street-facing façades at ground level or where they face onto a busy courtyard or podium.

C4.6 Avoid large wide full-height windows to habitable rooms (particularly in bedrooms) where the risk of being overlooked and/or overheating is high

C4.7 All habitable rooms (including a kitchen/dining room) should receive natural light and have at least one openable window that provides a view out when seated

C4.8 Best practice: Bathrooms should receive natural light through openable window/s.

9.2 Housing Quality

Housing Quality

Housing Quality

WIP27/05/2024

9.2 Housing Quality

Housing Quality

Amenity: 8.63m²

Accessibility: M4(2)

Total units: 25

Amenity: 8.64m²

Accessibility: M4(3)

Total units: 7

Housing Quality

WB03 Student accommodation

Design principles

1. A mix of studio and en-suite bedroom accommodation

2. Considered layouts with good quality circulation space

3. Sufficient storage for student needs, including full size wardrobe

4. Studios with kitchenettes placed away from fire escape routes

5. Study spaces positioned in rooms to exploit daylight and views

6. Accessible rooms that are positioned close to the lifts

7. High quality mechanical ventilation with purge ventilation panels

8. Shared spaces for dining and preparing meals

9. Access to outdoor space

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WB03

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FORELECTRONICDATAISSUE

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Housing Quality

Ensuite (Cluster Flat)

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WB03

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Ensuite Accessible (Cluster Flat)

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Kitchen (Cluster Flat)

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Studio Type 1B

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Studio Type 2A

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Studio Type 2B

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WB03

Studio Type 3A

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WB03

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Housing Quality

Studio Type 4A Accessible

WB03

Studio Type 4B

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Housing Quality

FORELECTRONICDATAISSUE

Studio Type 4B

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WB03

Studio Type 4C

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Housing Quality

Studio Type 4D

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Amenity Level 31

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Detailed Design

Student accommodation typical bay study

The façade of the student accommodation building features a vertical emphasis with prominent pilasters

The typical bay is predominantly a light beige colour. The concrete elements comprise a vertically prominent pilaster with a central concave scoop, a sunshade and a ribbed spandrel panel. Either side of the fixed window are perforated aluminium panels in dark bronze colour. Behind one of the aluminium panels is an operable panel for purge ventilation.

9.3 Detailed Design

Student accommodation bull-nose bay study

The bull nose section of the student accommodation is coloured slate blue and features a gentle curve

This part of the building houses the shared kitchen and dining area of the cluster flats. It is designed to be a prominent part of the building with excellent views. The bay is predominantly a slate blue colour. As for the typical bay, the concrete elements comprise a vertically prominent pilaster with a central concave scoop, a sunshade and a ribbed spandrel panel. Either side of the fixed window are perforated aluminium panels in dark grey colour.

Typical outer bundle | Terraces

Design

Detailed Design

WB05 T1

1:50 Bay study

The entrance to the Flexible Commercial space on the North façade activates the Eastern edge of Aisgill Gardens and is a key node when turning the corner towards the Empress Place Boulevard.

The entrance to the Flexible Commercial space is punctuated with a recess. The terracotta tiles and metalwork reference the green accent colour seen in Art Deco buildings such as the Hoover building.

Detailed Design

Landscape and Greening

WB03 UGF calculation and diagram

Semi-natural vegetation (e.g. trees, woodland, species-rich grassland) maintained or established on site.

Wetland or open water (semi-natural; not chlorinated) maintained or established on site.

Intensive green roof or vegetation over structure. Substrate minimum settled depth of 150mm.

Standard trees planted in connected tree pits with a minimum soil volume equivalent to at least two thirds of the projected canopy area of the mature tree.

Extensive green roof with substrate of minimum settled depth of 80mm (or 60mm beneath vegetation blanket) – meets the requirements of GRO Code 2014.

Flower-rich perennial planting

0 Rain gardens and other vegetated sustainable drainage elements.

Hedges (line of mature shrubs one or two shrubs wide)

Standard trees planted in pits with soil volumes less than two thirds of the pro ected canopy area of the mature tree.

grassland (species-poor, regularly mown lawn)

Extensive green roof of sedum mat or other lightweight systems that do not meet GRO Code 2014.

Water features (chlorinated) or unplanted detention basins.

Sealed surfaces (e.g. concrete, asphalt, waterproofing, stone).

Urban Greening Factor Calculator

Landscape and Greening

WB04 UGF calculation and diagram

Semi-natural vegetation (e.g. trees, woodland, species-rich grassland) maintained or established on site.

Wetland or open water (semi-natural; not chlorinated) maintained or established on site.

Intensive green roof or vegetation over structure. Substrate minimum settled depth of 150mm.

Standard trees planted in connected tree pits with a minimum soil volume equivalent to at least two thirds of the projected canopy area of the mature tree.

Extensive green roof with substrate of minimum settled depth of 80mm (or 60mm beneath vegetation blanket) – meets the requirements of GRO Code 2014.

Flower-rich perennial planting

in

Extensive green roof of sedum mat or other lightweight systems that do not meet GRO Code 2014.

Landscape and Greening

WB05 UGF calculation and diagram

Semi-natural vegetation (e.g. trees, woodland, species-rich grassland) maintained or established on site.

Wetland or open water (semi-natural; not chlorinated) maintained or established on site.

Intensive green roof or vegetation over structure. Substrate minimum settled depth of 150mm.

Standard trees planted in connected tree pits with a minimum soil volume equivalent to at least two thirds of the projected canopy area of the mature tree.

Extensive green roof with substrate of minimum settled depth of 80mm (or 60mm beneath vegetation blanket) – meets the requirements of GRO Code 2014.

perennial planting

gardens and other vegetated sustainable drainage elements.

Hedges (line of mature shrubs one or two shrubs wide)

Standard trees planted in pits with soil volumes less than two thirds of the pro ected canopy area of the mature tree.

system or climbers rooted in soil.

grassland (species-poor, regularly mown lawn)

Extensive green roof of sedum mat or other lightweight systems that do not meet GRO Code 2014.

features (chlorinated) or unplanted detention basins.

surfaces (e.g. concrete, asphalt, waterproofing, stone).

Sheppard Robson/ Serie/ dRMM EC.LBHF.02 July 2024