A 1980s office building opposite the Barbican Centre is set to be redeveloped amid concerns it will be ‘unlettable’ without significant investment. One Silk Street is reportedly set to become empty in 2026 due to its current tenant, the Magic Circle law firm Linklaters, relocating to new offices in Ropemaker Street.
A consultation has now been launched on the proposed redevelopment of the block, to potentially include new eating and drinking areas, a public space at the entrance to the Barbican Centre and improvements to its internal layout. It is intended to continue delivering office space.
A spokesperson for Kanda Consulting, which is managing the consultation, said it expects an application to be submitted with the City of London Corporation in early 2025. “But there will be further consultation over the coming months as the plans emerge and develop,” they added.
One Silk Street was constructed in the 1980s, and renovated in 1996. The consultation notes, however, that due to the building failing to meet the minimum requirement of a Band C Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for commercial buildings, it will be ‘unlettable’ from 2025.
When asked what they want for the site if it’s redeveloped, people told the firm they’d like better air quality, more greening and walking routes to nearby stations.
Some issues that could hamper the renovations include floor-to-ceiling heights being low and its ‘poor frontage’ on Silk Street.
Refurbishing or retrofitting the existing building were looked at as options, though it was deemed these would not resolve issues such as poor natural daylight and the site’s inflexible floorplates. As such, an approach which retains the foundation but goes ahead with a new build above ground is recommended.
While this would result in a higher carbon footprint, it is believed the redevelopment would allow for more public space at ground floor, provide new facilities, and be more energy efficient when in use, among other potential benefits, the report states. Real estate investment firm LaSalle, and Lipton Rogers Developments, are behind the proposals.
The consultation is to run until August 30. To provide feedback, visit: Have Your Say – One Silk Street
