Planning application for mixed-use redevelopment in Camden

A full planning application has been submitted to Camden Council proposing the redevelopment of the Camden Town Xchange site at 180 Arlington Road and 14 Parkway. The scheme would replace a former cinema and bingo hall, both largely vacant, with a new mixed-use development combining housing, student accommodation, retail space, and cultural facilities.

Submitted by Camden Vision Limited, the proposal outlines a plan for 48 affordable residential units and 244 purpose-built student rooms. Ground-floor commercial or retail space is included, along with the reprovision of leisure and cultural space. The site is located just off Camden High Street, an area that has seen increasing redevelopment interest in recent years.

Architecture firm Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHMM), known for its Stirling Prize-winning work and experience in Camden, has designed the scheme. Sustainability consultancy Sweco is advising on energy, materials, and carbon performance. Management of the student accommodation is expected to be undertaken by Homes for Students, one of the UK’s largest private student housing operators.

Environmental performance is a central focus of the application. The scheme targets a 40% on-site carbon emissions reduction—surpassing current building regulations—and aims for a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating, with aspirations to reach ‘Outstanding’ for some elements. The energy strategy includes passive design features, rooftop solar panels, and air source heat pumps, replacing the need for a district heating connection.

The project incorporates circular economy principles, with targets to divert 95% of construction waste from landfill and reuse or recycle 90% of materials from demolition. Around 20% of new building materials are expected to come from secondary sources. A Whole Life Carbon assessment has also been carried out, setting a pathway toward reduced embodied carbon, although the scheme does not yet meet Greater London Authority benchmarks.

Urban greening measures form part of the design, including green roofs, biodiversity planting, and provisions for bird and bat habitats. The application achieves an Urban Greening Factor of 0.3, and while not subject to Biodiversity Net Gain requirements, it includes several enhancements to support local ecology.

Climate resilience has also been factored into the design, with features such as sustainable urban drainage systems, green and blue roofs for water retention, and passive cooling techniques to limit overheating. No on-site car parking is proposed; instead, the development promotes walking and cycling, offering extensive secure cycle parking in line with—and exceeding—London Plan standards.

Camden Vision Limited describes itself as a group of experienced residential, commercial, and cultural developers with a focus on projects in Camden. The planning application is currently under review by the local authority.