Southwark Council and Higgins Partnerships have marked a major milestone in the regeneration of the Ledbury Estate on Old Kent Road, as construction gets underway on Phase 2 of the long-term redevelopment project.

The scheme will replace outdated tower blocks originally built in the 1960s using Large Panel System methods, which were later found to present fire and structural risks. Phase 2 will deliver 215 new council homes alongside 45 private sale properties, as well as improved public spaces, commercial units and community facilities.

This phase builds on earlier work already nearing completion, with the overall regeneration set to provide 340 new homes, including a significant number of council properties to replace those lost from the original towers. Additional plans will bring the total number of new council homes to 275, alongside shared ownership and private sale homes.

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Tom Copley joined residents, councillors and project partners at a ground-breaking event to mark the start of construction. The project follows extensive consultation and design work with the local community to ensure it meets long-term needs.

Mr Copley, Deputy Mayor for Housing and Residential Development, said: "The Mayor and I are proud to be supporting the Ledbury Estate renewal with £5.7m in grant funding from City Hall and welcome the start of construction on phase 2. This is an important and bold redevelopment which will deliver 340 new, mixed-tenure homes, helping Londoners and families into secure and high-quality housing in the borough. I look forward to continuing to work in partnership with Southwark Council to boost the delivery of affordable homes as we build a fairer and better London for everyone."

Dominic Higgins, Chief Operating Officer for Higgins Group, said: "We are delighted to commence work on phase two of this major estate renewal with our partners at Southwark Council. As well as delivering 340 high-quality mixed-tenure homes, the scheme will provide the neighbourhood with new green spaces, a community courtyard, play areas and improved connections for both pedestrians and cyclists. We are also proud to continue our engagement with the local community and create local employment opportunities."

Phase 2 forms part of a wider investment programme to transform the estate, delivering homes that meet modern standards for safety, sustainability and accessibility. Enhancements to green spaces, walking routes and community amenities are also planned to create a more resilient and welcoming neighbourhood, with the council committing to ongoing engagement with residents throughout construction.