Developer Kier Property has confirmed plans to demolish a former council office block in Kingston upon Thames to build around 100 new homes, along with shops and offices. The site, known as Guildhall 1, was part of Kingston Council's Guildhall complex and was cleared before being put up for sale last year.
Part of a larger transformation
The move is part of Kingston Council's strategy to sell off parts of the Guildhall development to generate income and reduce running costs. The Guildhall complex includes the main Grade II listed building, built in 1935, which houses the council chamber, and two 1970s office blocks. The office blocks were deemed surplus to requirements in 2022.
The council plans to eventually move all services into the Guildhall's main building through refurbishment and extension. The other office block is currently being used as the council's main offices while these proposals are developed, and will be put up for sale at a later date.
New homes and public spaces
Kier Property's proposal includes around 100 new homes, shops, and offices, along with new public and shared outdoor spaces and more trees. The developer said the plans would "bring an underused site back into productive use and help meet local housing needs."
Alexandra Conway, residential managing director for Kier Property, said: "This is an exciting opportunity to bring a long-vacant site back into use, delivering much-needed new homes in a highly sustainable town centre location. We are committed to working closely with local residents, community groups and businesses to help shape our proposals, ensuring the development responds to local needs and creates lasting benefits for the wider community. We encourage everyone to take part in the consultation and share their views as we develop our plans."
Public consultation
Kier Property will run a public consultation from July 16 to August 16. A drop-in public exhibition event will be held on July 16 at the Richard Mayo Centre, Kingston United Reformed Church, Eden Street, between 3pm and 7pm. The proposals will also be available to view online during the consultation period.
The developer will consider feedback before submitting a planning application, which would require council approval to proceed.
