Developer Kier Property has announced plans to demolish a former Kingston Council office block and replace it with approximately 100 new homes, along with shops and offices. The site, part of the Guildhall complex in Kingston upon Thames, has been vacant since the council cleared it and put it up for sale last year as part of efforts to generate income and reduce operational costs.
Background of the Guildhall complex
The Guildhall complex includes the main Grade II listed building, built in 1935 and housing the council chamber, along with two 1970s office blocks. The council deemed the office blocks surplus to requirements in 2022. While one block is still used as the main offices, the other is now empty. The council plans to consolidate all services into the refurbished and extended main building, with the eventual sale of the remaining office block also anticipated.
Details of the proposed development
Kier Property's proposal includes not only residential units but also commercial spaces and public outdoor areas, with increased tree planting. The developer states the project will “bring an underused site back into productive use and help meet local housing needs.” Alexandra Conway, residential managing director for Kier Property, commented: “This is an exciting opportunity to bring a long-vacant site back into use, delivering much-needed new homes in a highly sustainable town centre location. We are committed to working closely with local residents, community groups and businesses to help shape our proposals, ensuring the development responds to local needs and creates lasting benefits for the wider community. We encourage everyone to take part in the consultation and share their views as we develop our plans.”
Public consultation and next steps
Kier Property will run a public consultation from July 16 to August 16. A drop-in exhibition will be held on July 16 at the Richard Mayo Centre, Kingston United Reformed Church, Eden Street, between 3pm and 7pm. The proposals will also be available online during the consultation period. Feedback will be considered before submitting a planning application, which requires approval for the development to proceed.
