Transport for London (TfL) has chosen Native Land as its joint venture (JV) development partner as part of the South Kensington Tube station transformation project.

The property developer is tasked with creating a new mixed-use scheme around the station, which is also being upgraded to deliver step-free access to the District and Circle line via a new entrance on Thurloe Street.

Subject to contracts, TfL will now work with Native Land and their preferred architecture firm, Rogers Stirk Harbour and Partners, to develop proposals for the site. Consultation and engagement with the local community will take place later this year.

In January, TfL was granted Listed Building Consent by Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea for proposals to upgrade the station. Designed by architects Weston Williamson, the upgrade work will include rebuilding a new eastbound District and Circle line platform, and expanding the ticket hall and gate line. Work is due to start this spring.

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A key part of the scheme involves upgrading properties around the station including the four storey buildings at 20-34 Thurloe Street, with the potential to create new opportunities along TfL's stretch of land on Pelham Street to Thurloe Square and the Bullnose building. The main station entrances through the Grade II listed shopping arcade will also be preserved and further restored, along with a second entrance via the Grade II listed pedestrian subway.

Subject to planning permission, the development including step-free access to the District and Circle line, could be complete in 2022.

Graeme Craig, Director of Commercial Development Director at TfL, said: "It's hugely exciting to be working with partners who are renowned for such iconic and transformative projects.

"Together, we can create a development that reflects its historic legacy and unique setting as a gateway to some of the most important and treasured cultural institutions in the world.

"We look forward to working closely with Native Land, and the community, to bring forward respectful development proposals that generate vital revenue to reinvest in transport and provide step-free access for millions of journeys."

Alasdair Nicholls, Chief Executive of Native Land, said: "It's great to be selected as the preferred partner for this important London project. We are keen to work with TfL to progress proposals for a high-quality, mixed-use development which is authentic to this very special location."

Image credit: TfL.

(LM/JP)