A major redevelopment in the heart of Elephant and Castle has been given the green light, paving the way for a new student accommodation block that will house 243 students. The plans were unanimously approved by Southwark Council's Planning Committee on the evening of Wednesday, November 5.
Unanimous Approval for Coburg House Redevelopment
The developer, Newington Causeway Investments Limited, put forward the proposal to demolish the existing four-storey office building at Coburg House, 63-67 Newington Causeway, which currently contains a Jobcentre. In its place, a modern complex ranging from three to 19 storeys will be constructed. All five councillors on the planning committee voted in favour of the application.
The new development will not only provide student housing but also deliver 1,500 sqm of commercial floorspace and 'affordable' workspace. A basement and an on-site servicing area are also included in the plans.
Financial Contributions and Community Impact
While the student rooms themselves will not be offered at affordable rates, the developer has committed to a significant financial contribution to the local community. An £11 million payment-in-lieu will be made, which is earmarked for the creation of affordable housing elsewhere in Southwark. The council estimates this payment is equivalent to providing 35% affordable housing by habitable room.
In a boost for accessibility, 13 studio units (5% of the total) will be adapted for wheelchair users. The project is also set to generate substantial infrastructure funding, with Southwark Council due to receive an estimated £1.6 million in Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding. City Hall is set to gain over £500,000 in Mayoral CIL funding, a source that has previously helped finance projects like the Elizabeth Line.
Mixed Public Reaction and Official Support
The public consultation process revealed a divided local opinion. The council received nine objections to the plans, with concerns focusing on the building being "excessively tall" and the area becoming "saturated" with student housing. However, two letters of support and one neutral comment were also submitted.
Supporters argued the development is a positive addition and of an "appropriate" scale. Crucially, the plans were backed by the University of the Arts London, which stated the accommodation would benefit both the higher education sector and the wider local community. Southwark planning officers endorsed the project, stating it would make "efficient use" of an under-utilised site and align with the council's long-term vision for the area.
