LSE plans major student housing redevelopment

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), in partnership with Equitix and Bouygues UK, has submitted a planning application to redevelop Bankside House into a high-density, purpose-built student accommodation scheme. The proposed development would deliver 1,944 student bed spaces in central London, tripling capacity on the existing site.

The project aims to address a shortfall in student accommodation at LSE, which currently houses only around 40% of its 12,000 full-time students in university-managed residences. As part of its 2030 strategy, LSE plans to provide 6,000 student beds and guarantee accommodation to every new first-year student.

All rooms at the new Bankside House will be offered at sub-market rents, with 15% of bed spaces qualifying as Affordable Student Accommodation under the London Plan, capped at 55% of the maximum maintenance loan. A range of room types and price points, supported by 38-week term-time contracts, is intended to improve affordability and widen access.

Designed by architects Carmody Groarke and Sheppard Robson, the scheme proposes three slender towers of 24, 26, and 28 storeys, connected by two low-rise pavilions arranged around landscaped courtyards. The design replaces the current mid-century building and incorporates significant public realm improvements, including a new Community Hub curated by LSE, a public café, and Community Classrooms for local education providers.

The site is located in the heart of London’s cultural quarter, adjacent to Tate Modern. The redevelopment introduces permeable frontages to improve east–west pedestrian connections and contributes to local streetscape activation. The ground-floor pavilions are intended to foster civic presence, with student amenities visible and accessible at street level rather than hidden in basements.

The scheme targets BREEAM Excellent, with aspirations to achieve Outstanding for student accommodation, and aligns with Passivhaus standards for operational energy. An all-electric energy strategy is planned, alongside passive design, high-performance building fabric, and roof-mounted photovoltaics. Landscaped podium terraces and green infrastructure aim to support climate resilience and biodiversity.

Cycle parking provision is included in line with LSE’s student travel surveys, and the development is intended to be car-free, subject to agreements with the London Borough of Southwark.

The planning application is now under review, with a determination expected in early 2026. If approved, construction is due to begin in 2027, with the new Bankside House scheduled to open in time for the 2032 academic year.