Oxford Street’s Former BHS Site Poised for Transformation
A significant redevelopment plan is underway for the former BHS and UAL College of Fashion site on London’s Oxford Street, aiming to create a vibrant new retail and cultural hub. The ambitious project at 33 Cavendish Square, spearheaded by Berkeley Estate Asset Management (BEAM) and Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), promises to inject new life into the iconic street.
Key Takeaways
- The former BHS and UAL College of Fashion site on Oxford Street is slated for a major redevelopment.
- Plans include extensive office space, new retail units, and a dedicated cultural hub with an auditorium.
- The project aims to rejuvenate Oxford Street and attract world-leading brands.
- It is projected to generate over £550m annually and create nearly 4,500 jobs.
- Construction is anticipated to commence in 2029, concluding in 2033, pending council approval.
A New Era for Oxford Street
The proposed development encompasses a substantial 807,293 sq ft (75,000 sq m) of office space, alongside a 37,673 sq ft (3,500 sq m) cultural centre. This cultural hub is envisioned to host a variety of events, including TED talks, product launches, and fashion shows, thanks to its state-of-the-art auditorium.
Economic and Employment Impact
Proponents of the project, including John Bushell from KPF, believe the development represents a "crucial step in the rejuvenation of Oxford Street." The economic forecast is optimistic, with hopes that the site will generate more than £550 million annually and provide employment for almost 4,500 individuals once completed. This is according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Timeline and Vision
If Westminster City Council grants approval, construction is expected to begin in 2029 and continue through to 2033. The vision is to create "greatly improved retail space to help attract world-leading brands into the nation’s high street," as stated by Mr. Bushell. The site, which housed BHS from 1961 until its administration in 2016, and subsequently the UAL College of Fashion before its relocation, is currently partially used for office space.
