Southwark Fire Station
- Client: Hadston
- Architect: Collado Collins
- Contacts: Sean Tickle, Tom Lawson
- LPA: London Borough of Southwark
The Southwark Fire Station redevelopment is a landmark mixed-use project that transforms a historically significant site into a dynamic, multi-functional community asset.
Delivering a 6-form entry secondary school with sixth form provision, 199 residential units, and a range of community and commercial spaces, the scheme is a powerful example of integrated planning responding to urgent urban challenges.
Spearheaded to address a critical shortfall in secondary school places in the borough, the project introduces a new 1,150-pupil school operated by the respected Haberdashers’ Aske’s Federation. With a strong focus on inclusivity and educational excellence, the school prioritises local admissions and offers modern, high-quality learning environments that meet BB103 design standards. The adjacent sports hall and Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) are open to the wider community, promoting health, wellbeing, and social cohesion.
The development also sensitively restores several Grade II listed buildings—most notably Winchester House—bringing them back into meaningful use. This careful heritage approach preserves Southwark’s cultural identity while aligning with contemporary needs. Blending historic architecture with new, purpose-built elements, the scheme creates a unified and inspiring environment for living, learning, and community life.
The 199 new homes, including dual-aspect units and maisonettes, respond to diverse housing needs in a high-demand area. Flexible-use commercial spaces support local enterprise and job creation, further embedding the project’s economic value. Pedestrian-friendly design, active street frontages, and landscaped public areas enhance the local environment and contribute to a safer, more vibrant public realm.
Developed in close collaboration with the local authority, residents, and heritage stakeholders, the scheme reflects a deep commitment to place-making, sustainability, and community wellbeing. The scheme achieves a 35% reduction in carbon emissions through efficient building design, a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system, and the integration of photovoltaic panels. The site meets BREEAM Excellent standards for educational facilities and introduces biodiversity-enhancing landscaping that supports climate resilience.
