A regeneration developer has been selected to redevelop two sites in Holborn, including a public library.
U+I will work alongside Camden Council to convert Holborn Library and Cockpit Yard, both located in Bloomsbury, into new employment studio spaces, a fully remodelled library and a local studies archive facility.
The redevelopment will also include public spaces and 105 new homes including affordable units.
The plans have been designed by Coffey Architects.
The work will be done through a public-private partnership (PPP) with the council and so will not cost the taxpayer any money. The public elements of the scheme will be funded by the sales of the private residential units.
The planning application will be submitted at the end of 2016 after a community engagement programme.
Richard Upton, deputy chief executive of U+I said: ‘Cockpit Yard and Holborn Library make up a complex mixed-use project – one that perfectly fits our expertise as a business. We work with our partners to create places that deliver real, long-term value for everyone involved.
‘Coffey Architects, who have recently transformed a Victorian post office into our superb new headquarters office, are a natural fit for us on this project and we are excited to develop further our original design proposals for the project to create a place for Holborn that is truly special.’
‘We look forward to working closely with Camden Council and the local community to deliver our second public library and a regeneration project that creates pride and a great legacy for the area,’ he added.
Cllr Theo Blackwell, cabinet member for finance and technology, said: ‘This appointment will see the remodelling of this valuable mixed use space with a modern public library and archive and employment space at no cost to the taxpayer – additionally it will provide much needed affordable housing options for the community.’
