Stratford Student Housing Tower Gets Green Light After Height Reduction
A proposed student housing tower in east London has received approval after developer Dominus revised its plans, notably reducing the building’s height. The project, located on Stratford High Street, will provide 692 student beds, with a significant portion designated as affordable housing. This decision follows a previous refusal of a taller iteration of the scheme.
Key Takeaways
- A 31-storey student housing tower in Stratford has been approved.
- The revised plans include 692 student beds, with 35% at affordable rents.
- The development aims to address a shortage of student accommodation in the Newham area.
- The project includes public realm improvements and a new community pub.
Revised Plans Secure Approval
Dominus has successfully gained approval for its student housing development at 302-312 Stratford High Street. The initial proposal for a 34-storey building was refused by the London Legacy Development Corporation and subsequently dismissed at appeal due to concerns over its height, massing, and design impact on the streetscape. In response, Dominus reworked the plans, collaborating with Newham Council and its Quality Review Panel. The newly approved scheme, designed by Metropolitan Workshop, stands at 31 storeys and will offer 692 student beds.
Addressing Student Accommodation Needs
The development is strategically located within a five-minute walk of Stratford Station and close to several universities, including University College London East, London College of Fashion, and the University of East London. These institutions collectively house over 27,000 students. Research indicates a substantial demand for student housing in the Newham borough, with over 10,500 students reportedly unable to secure a bed space, highlighting the need for such developments.
Community Benefits and Design Enhancements
Beyond student accommodation, the project incorporates significant community benefits. The design includes landscaped roof terraces, communal living spaces, and amenities such as a gym and yoga studio. Furthermore, the public realm has been enhanced by landscape architects Spacehub, featuring new outdoor spaces and greening along Stratford High Street. A key element of the revised plan is the inclusion of a new, improved pub intended to serve as a community hub. This focus on enhancing the street-level environment and providing community facilities was a crucial aspect of the reworked proposal.
Developer’s Commitment
Dominus has emphasized its commitment to delivering much-needed student homes and improving the local area. Edward Law, Planning Associate at Dominus, stated that the reworked plans aim to transform a vacant brownfield site into a vibrant space with student accommodation, a new pub, and enhanced street-level features. The developer is actively involved in other student accommodation projects across London, including schemes in Holborn Viaduct, Crutched Friars, and Fleet Street, and recently completed the Scape Hammersmith development, which features a high proportion of affordable student accommodation.
