High Court Approves Redevelopment of Iconic South Bank ITV Studios

The High Court has approved a significant redevelopment of the former South Bank ITV Studios building on London’s South Bank, marking a decisive victory for developers Mitsubishi Estate London and CO—RE. This landmark site, which once housed shows like Good Morning Britain and The Graham Norton Show, is set to be transformed into a state-of-the-art office complex following years of controversy.

The redevelopment plans, previously criticised by campaign group Save Our South Bank, involve demolishing the 24-storey tower to make way for a new 25-storey office building, accompanied by two smaller structures of 14 and six storeys. These new facilities will include rehearsal spaces, galleries, studios, and restaurants facing the Thames, ensuring the site remains a cultural hub.

Despite obtaining planning approval from Lambeth Council in March 2022, the project faced opposition and was subject to a public inquiry called by the government later that year. Critics labelled the proposed design “ugly and overbearing,” with concerns over its impact on the historic South Bank landscape and carbon emissions from demolition and reconstruction.

In October, Save Our South Bank launched a judicial review, arguing the development contradicted planning protections and failed to include housing—a missed opportunity to create over 200 homes. However, the High Court ruled in favour of the developers, clearing the path for construction to begin.

Shinichi Kagitomi, Chief Executive of Mitsubishi Estate London, and Stephen Black, Director at CO—RE, expressed their gratitude for the court’s decision. In a joint statement, they emphasised the project’s widespread support: “At every stage of the planning process, our transformational plans for 72 Upper Ground have had the backing of senior politicians, independent experts, Lambeth Council, and the GLA. We are excited to deliver an outstanding building that will make a significant positive contribution to the South Bank.”

For decades, the South Bank ITV Studios, also known as the LWT Tower, stood as a cultural icon. Opened in 1974, it was Europe’s most advanced television centre at the time, hosting beloved programmes like Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway and The Jonathan Ross Show. Its redevelopment marks the end of an era but promises a new chapter in the site’s history.

Michael Ball, a representative of Save Our South Bank, voiced disappointment over the court’s ruling: “This judgement is a huge disappointment for anyone who loves the river and South Bank. It highlights flaws in planning protections and the missed opportunity to provide much-needed housing while generating unnecessary carbon emissions through demolition.”

The redevelopment aligns with broader discussions on urban planning and its impact on London’s skyline, as outlined by the London Assembly’s Planning and Development policies.

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