The council is working in collaboration with the Greater London Authority (GLA) and Network Rail to bring this ambitious project to fruition
Southwark Council has announced the appointment of BAM Nuttall Ltd as the contractor for the long-awaited transformation of Peckham Rye Station Square. The project, which has been in the planning stages for several years, aims to revitalise the area by converting a series of narrow and dark passageways into a light, vibrant, and spacious civic square.
The council is working in collaboration with the Greater London Authority (GLA) and Network Rail to bring this ambitious project to fruition. The transformation, which was granted planning consent in 2016, has involved extensive consultations with local communities and residents, who have been actively contributing ideas and showing a great deal of passion for the project.
The renovation will see the façade of the Grade II listed 1860s station building enhanced by new surroundings. The dilapidated 1930s arcade, which has long been a feature of the square, will be removed to reinstate the original forecourt. This will include new planting, seating, and lighting, as well as exposing and bringing new focus to the majestic arches along the north and south sides of the square.
These arches will be refurbished to provide new premises for local and independent businesses, adding a sense of community, atmosphere, and life to the square. The first phase of the project, which involved the refurbishment and extension of the Blenheim Grove corner building, is now complete and ready to accommodate new businesses.
The final businesses remaining within the 1930s arcade will be vacating the premises over the coming months, allowing demolition to commence this summer. The new square is expected to be completed next year.
In addition to the physical transformation, the project will be complemented by a major station upgrade planned by Network Rail. This upgrade will not only improve the station environment but also ensure that the station is accessible to all and has the capacity to meet future demands.
Helen Dennis, Cabinet Member for New Homes and Sustainable Development at Southwark Council, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: “This is a massively exciting time for the residents of Peckham. The community has shown great passion for the regeneration of the station square, and I am glad we are taking a step closer to delivering on their vision. With the help of BAM Nuttall Ltd, the GLA, and Network Rail, Peckham Rye Station Square will become a welcoming, vibrant, and picturesque space that I am sure the local community will embrace.”
Gareth White, Operations Director at BAM Nuttall Ltd, also commented on the project: “We are really pleased to be awarded this contract and are looking forward to working closely with the team at Southwark Council to ensure successful delivery. This scheme will greatly enhance the area in front of Peckham Rye Station, bringing many public benefits. BAM is really proud to be part of this regeneration.”
The transformation of Peckham Rye Station Square is expected to have a significant positive impact on the local community. The project aims to create a space that not only meets the functional needs of residents and commuters but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the area. The inclusion of new businesses in the refurbished arches is expected to add a dynamic element to the square, fostering a sense of community and vibrancy.
As the project progresses, residents and visitors to Peckham Rye can look forward to a revitalised station square that will serve as a focal point for the community. The combination of improved accessibility, enhanced aesthetics, and new business opportunities is expected to make Peckham Rye Station Square a landmark destination in South London.
With the appointment of BAM Nuttall Ltd as the contractor, the project is now set to move forward at pace. The coming months will see the final preparations for the demolition of the 1930s arcade and the beginning of the construction phase. The completion of the project next year will mark a significant milestone in the regeneration of Peckham Rye and a testament to the collaborative efforts of Southwark Council, the GLA, Network Rail, and the local community.
