O2 Centre O2 Centre redevelopment plans approved by Camden Council

Revised proposals for the O2 Centre development on Finchley Road have been granted approval by Camden's planning committee. The amendments permit additional storeys to several tower blocks and decrease the provision of affordable homes on the 14-acre site. Developer Landsec confirmed that 20 per cent of the 1,800 flats will be designated as affordable housing.

Reasons for Plan Revisions

Landsec stated that updating the masterplan, originally approved in 2023, was necessary to address escalating construction expenses, new building regulations, and elevated interest rates, factors that have affected housing development across London. Officers noted in their report to councillors that the three-phase, 10-15-year scheme had experienced delays due to these spiralling costs and viability concerns.

The approved changes will result in some blocks exceeding 17 storeys and deliver 92 fewer homes intended for low-income families. Council officers described these amendments as minor, asserting that the development would still provide essential social housing within the borough. These revisions also align with government and Mayoral measures aimed at accelerating new home construction in the capital.

“By aligning with the GLA’s emergency housing measures, we’re still able to create new homes for Camden, provide open green space and protect the long-term benefits we promised the community in 2023.”

Tim Trillo, development director at Landsec

Tim Trillo, development director at Landsec, described the approval as an important step for the O2 Centre masterplan. He added that the developer looked forward to contributing to the delivery of much-needed homes in London. The revised plans incorporate design adjustments to meet new building safety standards and enhance public open and green spaces, with over half of the site designated for public use. This includes a central green area with planting, play zones, seating, and improved pedestrian connections between Finchley Road and West Hampstead.

Landsec collaborated with GRID Architects and Heatherwick Studio on the design refinements for the site, which encompasses the existing shopping centre, car park, former Homebase store, car showrooms, and a builders yard. The developer has indicated that the current shopping centre, which houses businesses including Aldi, Sainsbury's, Vue Cinema, Nandos, a gym, and Waterstones, will remain operational for several more years during the construction period.