The distinctive structure, also known as the ‘River Palace’, was constructed by Sir Terry Farrell in 1991
A building above Charing Cross Station has become Grade II listed in the midst of a planning battle over a proposed development at the site. The distinctive structure, also known as the ‘River Palace’, was constructed by Sir Terry Farrell in 1991.
Proposed plans would see the building at 1 Embankment Place transformed into a 35,000 square meter office site. However, a successful campaign by heritage group Twentieth Century Society to have the building listed could have implications for the application.
The society has said that it “strongly objects” to the proposals for the site.
A spokesperson for the group said: “We’re delighted to announce that 1 Embankment Place (1986-91), Sir Terry Farrell’s Post-Modern ‘River Palace’ above London’s Charing Cross Station, has been Grade II listed by DCMS following support from C20 Society.
“The news comes as plans by Hopkins architects for alterations to the building were set to be determined by Westminster planning committee.”
The Department for Culture, Media and Sport excluded several elements of the site from the listed status.
These include inside the building, Embankment Place underpass and the block facing Villiers Street and the brick vaults beneath the station.
“While recognition of the buildings national significance is very welcome, the Society is particularly disappointed that the Villiers Street elevation, and the bridge facings and portals on the Embankment Place underpass, remain vulnerable to demolition as part of the proposed redevelopment,” added the heritage group.
The submitted plans would upgrade the office space – considered to be outdated and failing – to deliver the standard of office space required to entice future tenants.
If approved, the development would retain 90 per cent of the structure and most of its façade, according to planning documents.
Developer Bridgemont is also seeking permission to undertake a series of works to the wider area, including an upgrade of Villiers Street, improving pedestrian links from the Embankment into the City, and offering a better collection of retail and leisure outlets.
Mark Wenlock, Principal at Bridgemont, said: “This submission reflects what people told us mattered most throughout consultation – a more inviting Villiers Street, better pedestrian connectivity and a higher-quality ground floor experience.
“The proposals set out 1 Embankment Place as one of Westminster’s most significant retrofit opportunities, transforming a critical gateway site into a high‑quality commercial, retail and cultural destination that better connects the West End with the South Bank.
“We are excited to move into the next phase to unlock the full potential of this remarkable site.”
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