Planning approval has been granted for The William, a new mixed-use development designed by Foster + Partners which is set to transform the northern end of Queensway in Bayswater, London.
The William will be built using cross-laminated timber, making it one of London’s largest timber developments and Foster + Partners first timber office in the capital.
Planning permission for The William was secured by property investment firm Mark in partnership with Finchatton and General Projects.
The William will cover six floors of office space alongside shops and 32 new homes, 11 of which will be affordable.
This is the latest phase of a major redevelopment project for the area, improving and building on the high street’s offering as a shopping, dining and travel destination for the capital.
The development is named after William Whiteley, the founder of the nearby Whiteleys department store located on the opposite side of the road, which is also being redeveloped by Foster + Partners. The Whiteley will offer a further 139 apartments, 19 new shops and restaurants, as well as London’s flagship Six Senses Hotel and Spa.
Patrick Campbell, Senior Partner, Foster + Partners, said: “Working closely with Westminster City Council and local residents, we have designed a mixed-use development that sets the standard for the next generation of low carbon, healthy office buildings.
“The William provides natural ventilation, great daylight, flexible floorplates and green terraces – all within a high-performance façade and a hybrid timber structure. We are now looking forward to bringing our designs to life.”
The construction of The William is projected to be BREEAM Outstanding, and the building will be operationally net-zero carbon upon completion, said the architecture firm.
Construction is expected to begin in 2023 and complete in 2026. Laing O’Rourke is lined up as main contractor.
Main image credit: Foster + Partners
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