Olympian clears gateway 2 for UK’s tallest co-living scheme | Construction Enquirer News
Summary
The UK’s tallest co-living scheme, featuring 833 studio flats, has cleared regulatory hurdles, with RG Group set to begin construction in Canary Wharf.
Why It Matters
This project represents a significant development in the co-living sector, addressing the growing demand for affordable housing in urban areas. The initiative by RG Group and the introduction of the Vivus Living brand highlight innovative approaches to residential living, particularly in London, where housing shortages are acute.
Key Takeaways
- The project will feature 833 studio flats, making it the tallest co-living scheme in the UK.
- RG Group's new Vivus Living brand aims to expand co-living options in London and beyond.
- The development includes extensive amenities such as a gym, spa, and flexible workspaces.
The 833-studio room project is the tallest scheme of its kind in the UK to clear the Building Safety Regulator hurdle. Contractor RG Group will deliver the developer’s first wholly co-living scheme under its new Vivus Living brand, which will be rolled out with further planned London projects. Leeds-based Demolition Service is now expected to start site clearance work in April, with RG hoped to start on the Docklands site this Autumn. The tower will deliver studios averaging 24 sq m, slightly larger than much of the current market, with amenity space distributed throughout the building rather than concentrated at podium or roof level. Facilities will include commercial-scale gym space, spa and wellness areas, living and dining lounges and flexible workspace. A hotel-style offer is planned, with 24-hour concierge, food and beverage services including room service, plus private meeting and function rooms. As of last year, Olympian has 1.8m sq ft of PBSA and build-to-rent under construction across six sites. Marsh Wall marks its first pure-play move into the co-living sector. Vivus Living will initially focus on London, where Olympian has identified a £2bn pipeline, before expanding into other major UK cities. Savills has been appointed to seek equity partners for the Marsh Wall scheme and the wider Vivus roll-out. Chairman and founder Mark Slatter said: “This milestone is the culmination of five years of hard work on the planning and the Gateway 2 process. “It has not been e...
