Grassroots campaign, SOS Save our South Bank will challenge the Government’s decision to approve a monstrous eyesore development on London’s iconic South Bank. We need your help to prepare for judicial review.

What’s the campaign about

London's South Bank, cherished by locals and visitors alike, faces an imminent threat. Plans for a vast office development, ominously referred to as "The Slab," will loom over the skyline, poised to irreversibly alter the character of this beloved area. We urgently seek your support to combat this egregious development and preserve the beauty and heritage of our community.

SOS Save Our South Bank is a grassroots movement comprised of concerned residents and over 6,000 allies who united nearly three years ago to oppose Mitsubishi Estate’s reckless plans for 72 Upper Ground, the old ITV Studios site right on the River Walkway alongside the Thames. Renowned critics have denounced the proposed development, with Simon Jenkins in The Guardian labelling it an "aggressive eyesore," Rowan Moore in The Observer describing it as "a brute of a building," and Richard Morrison in The Times deeming it "a grotesque monstrosity."

We know this site needs to be redeveloped. However, in such a treasured area of London, neighboured by listed IBM and National Theatre buildings, the design must protect and enhance rather than dominate its surroundings. We also believe that by building only offices in this space, a key opportunity for much needed housing is being missed. Instead, this block will steal daylight from the social housing directly behind it.

The campaign so far

Decision-makers Lambeth Council failed to take onboard the impact this build will have on local people. They have ignored suggestions for a smaller design that complements the surrounding area and adds value, for the local community and London as a whole.

Our voices were heard when the Secretary of State intervened, triggering a Public Inquiry in late 2022. However, despite widespread opposition, on 9 February 2024 the Secretary of State Michael Gove gave the greenlight to “The Slab”, leaving us at a critical juncture.

Given his reservations, particularly regarding the impact on London's iconic skyline, Mr. Gove's decision is puzzling, especially in light of his recent announcement prioritising housing on brownfield sites and repurposing disused office blocks for housing. This contradiction underscores the urgency of our cause and the need to hold decision-makers accountable for their actions.

The legal action

We firmly believe that Gove's decision is legally flawed and are prepared to challenge it through judicial review. But we cannot do this alone.

We urgently need to raise £15,000 to initiate the next phase of our legal battle. The proposed development threatens not only to overshadow the most visited portion of the River Thames but also exacerbate London's housing crisis and harm the environment, emitting over 100,000 tonnes of CO2 unnecessarily.

In our David versus Goliath struggle, every contribution—no matter how small—counts. Your support will empower us to represent our case effectively and halt this destructive project in its tracks.

By standing with us today, you are safeguarding the heritage of the much-loved South Bank, protecting vital green spaces, and defending the very essence of London's iconic skyline. With your support we can ensure that future generations inherit a South Bank worthy of its rich legacy.

Please donate generously and share our campaign with your networks. Together we can make a difference.

For more information contact [email protected] 

Thank you for your unwavering support.

Jenny O'Neill for SOS Save Our South Bank