The proposals were developed following extensive pre-application discussions with the LPA, and through thorough public and stakeholder engagement, including a two-day exhibition. The development sought to provide an enhanced medical practice, which will serve a significantly larger patient list, as well as providing much needed market and affordable housing for Southwark. The scheme was developed to respond to the natural, built and historic character of the local area, achieving a highly sustainable design, and integrating well with, and activating the neighbouring Dickens Square Park. Key considerations were securing an appropriate unit mix, meeting affordable housing aspirations, securing temporary surgery facilities during construction phases, and creating a truly landmark building which, whilst tall, would complement the park within which it sits.

Planning permission was granted in line with officer recommendation in 2021, meaning that plans could forge ahead for the surgery being able to increase its patient numbers from 8,000 to 15,000. The concluding remarks of the planning officer were that “Overall, this is likely to be an extremely distinguished building at the heart of its community. It will gain much from its park-side setting, which will allow for filtered views of the building rising above mature trees”.