Architecture firm AHMM has secured unanimous approval from Lambeth Council's planning committee for a major mixed-use development that will bring student housing, industrial space, and community facilities to south London. The project, located at 6-12 Kennington Road near Lambeth North underground station, received approval during Tuesday night's council meeting on July 29th.

The ambitious development will rise to 13 stories across two towers connected by a linking podium building. AHMM designed the project for client Unite, a leading student accommodation provider, with King's College London serving as the nominated academic partner for the student housing component.

The ground floor and mezzanine levels will house 2,241 square meters of industrial floorspace, which planning documents indicate could be divided into smaller individual units or leased as one complete space. This industrial component aims to maintain the area's commercial character while adapting to modern needs.

A 499 square meter community space will also occupy portions of the ground and mezzanine levels, providing local residents with new facilities for gatherings and activities. This community element was a key factor in securing local support for the development.

The student housing portion will span from the ground level through the upper floors, offering accommodation designed primarily as cluster-style living arrangements. Ninety percent of the student rooms will be organized in clusters, promoting social interaction among residents, while the remaining 10 percent will consist of self-contained studio apartments for students preferring more independent living arrangements.

In accordance with local affordable housing requirements, 35 percent of the student beds will be designated as affordable housing. Additionally, the developers will make a five percent payment in lieu of providing additional offsite affordable housing, as outlined in the planning documents submitted to Lambeth Council.

To make way for the new development, the project requires demolishing existing light industrial buildings currently occupying the site, including facilities used by a builders' merchant, as well as a vacant four-story building that has remained unused. This redevelopment represents a significant transformation of the site from its current underutilized state.

Lambeth Council's planning officers had previously recommended the scheme for approval, citing its mixed-use nature and contribution to both student housing needs and local community facilities. The unanimous vote by the planning committee reflects strong support for the project's design and community benefits.

The development addresses the ongoing shortage of purpose-built student accommodation in London while incorporating industrial and community spaces that serve broader neighborhood needs. The location near Lambeth North underground station provides convenient transportation links for students and workers who will use the facility.

AHMM, recognized as one of the AJ100 leading architecture practices, designed the scheme to integrate multiple functions within a cohesive architectural framework. The two-tower design with connecting podium allows for efficient organization of different uses while creating an engaging streetscape along Kennington Road.

While the planning approval represents a significant milestone, developers have not yet announced a specific timeline for construction completion. The project now moves forward to detailed design development and construction preparation phases, bringing south London closer to gaining this substantial new mixed-use facility that combines student housing, workspace, and community amenities in a single integrated development.