In the heart of London, the King’s Cross development is achieving sustainability while protecting cultural heritage.
The 67 acre development at King’s Cross is creating a new piece of London: 50 new buildings, 1,900 new homes, 20 new streets, 10 new parks and 1 new postcode. The cultural heritage of the area was given priority during the regeneration process. Reuse of heritage buildings and programs to create affordable homes are in place in order to protect social and cultural diversity. King’s Cross includes energy-efficient buildings, with all new buildings achieving a BREEAM “Excellent” rating, green transportation, and a tree planting program.
Eighty percent of power demand comes from renewable technologies like roof-mounted wind turbines and solar panels as well as a combined heat and power (CHP) plant that is 80% efficient, compared to 30% in the conventional UK electricity supply.
At King’s Cross, sustainability influences everything we do and the benefits are already being delivered. If you need proof that sustainability works, I would encourage you to come and see it for yourself.
David Partridge – Director, Argent.
Why you should care
30,000 people live, work, or study in King’s Cross, demonstrating that sustainable solutions are viable, can improve people’s lives, and are available on a massive scale in cities.
How the Global Goals are addressed
Creating a healthy living and working environment was at the centre of the regeneration plans. Replanting programs, pedestrianised areas and a natural bathing pond help to promote clean air and well-being.
Affordable and clean energy
Solar, wind and efficient gas-fired CHP plants help the development to generate cleaner and more affordable energy.
Industry, innovation and infrastructure
Businesses are being encouraged to make use of the transport links and sustainable infrastructure in the area, and so far companies including Google, Louis Vuitton, Universal Music have chosen to locate there.
Sustainable cities and communities
Sustainable, large scale redevelopments such as this show that cultural heritage of a city can be preserved whilst creating new, attractive and sustainable urban areas.
Climate action
The efficient gas-fuelled CHP plant generating heat and power for the area is estimated to provide carbon savings of over 45% compared to traditional alternatives, according to the companies involved.
Regenerating London’s Historic Centre
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Global Goals addressed
