Regal London has received unanimous approval from the Tower Hamlets planning committee for a mixed use development on Hackney Road. The scheme will provide 150,000 sqft of commercial space and nine residential apartments as well as improved public realm and cycle parking.

The sustainable and adaptable design by leading architects AHMM has retained a number of the existing facades, with the buildings redesigned to provide modern, flexible and efficient floorspace for retailers and office occupiers, close to accessible transport. Many of the jobs created will be accessible to local people and small businesses.

As part of the planning submission for a mixed use development, Regal London has agreed a first right of refusal for an LGBT+ operator to lease the A4 unit within the scheme, in addition to a 12-month rent free period, £130,000 contribution to fit out costs and a 25 year lease. Regal London has worked with the GLA Culture Team, Tower Hamlets, members of the local community and the Friends of the Joiners Arms to create a development that is viable for all parties and will be an asset for the future of Tower Hamlets.

A Regal London spokesperson comments: “We are grateful to all of the interested parties who have worked so hard with us on this development plan. It’s been a creative and ultimately highly constructive process, with an outcome which will deliver new homes and jobs for Tower Hamlets, as well as providing an opportunity for a LGBT+ venue. We look forward to working with the Council and the local community to deliver a development that has ‘a place for everyone’ in line with the Council’s vision for the future of Tower Hamlets.”

This is the latest in a series of developments by Regal London along Hackney Road as part of a wider masterplan to re-establish a thriving and dynamic community.