How the redevelopment of old railway arches could help businesses and the environment

Railway arches across the borough could be given a new lease of life and benefit the environment.

The council, in partnership with neighbouring Lambeth Council, has appointed an architecture firm to explore the potential for a continuous Low Line walking route following a network of hundreds of viaduct arches from central London.

The firm, Allies and Morrison will look at the arches and the space around them that sit underneath the mainline railway tracks which cut through the Vauxhall Nine Elms and Battersea Opportunity Area.

There is an estimated 776,000 sq ft of floor space available due to railway arches and can become home to more commercial community or leisure activity.

The enterprises that already operate would also then benefit from the extra support.

The creative team will explore the potential of the network of Victorian railway arches in Lambeth and Wandsworth to support new community and commercial uses and spaces.

If this goes ahead it would establish a new walking route through both borough encouraging people to cycle or walk.

London's Low Line currently runs through Bankside, London Bridge and Bermondsey.

The arches have been occupied by a variety of well-established businesses including bars and restaurants.

The extension would create a continuous walking and cycling route from Battersea to London Bridge.

The proposal will consider how the Low Line's development can help address the climate emergency by providing opportunities for new green infrastructure.

Wandsworth Council's Cabinet member for economic development, skills and employment Cllr Rhodri Morgan said: "The vision for the Low Line is a fitting continuation of our creative use of railway arches in Battersea and Nine Elms to house restaurants, commercial and office spaces and even new pedestrian routes such as Arch 42.

"I'm looking forward to seeing how we can enliven these historic arches and open up new spaces for a mix of uses to attract innovative businesses, residents and visitors, at the same time as improving the connectivity and permeability of the area."

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