Art-Invest Real Estate has secured planning approval from Southwark Council for its Plot B proposals at Dockside Canada Water following an overhaul of its plans, switching it from an office-led proposal to purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). The approval, granted on 29 April 2025, enables the development of 742 PBSA bedrooms and 75 affordable homes, addressing critical housing needs in the borough.
Plot B, designed by international architecture practice tp bennett, forms part of Art-Invest’s broader masterplan which secured outline planning permission in March 2022. The development will serve as the commercial gateway to British Land’s 53-acre new town centre in Canada Water.
The site’s exceptional connectivity includes an eight-minute journey to the City, fifteen minutes to the West End, and a two-minute journey to Canary Wharf.
“Canada Water is one of London’s largest redevelopment projects and it is rapidly taking shape. Dockside plays a crucial role in its development, by bringing exceptional workspace, a high quality residential offer and public realm that has wellbeing for local people and the future workforce at its heart.
“It is fantastic to secure a positive decision from Southwark’s planning committee as it completes our vision for Dockside Canada Water and allows us to focus on delivery.”
Luka Vukotic, Head of Development, Art-Invest Real Estate UK
Situated on a strategic central London freehold 4.5-acre site, the PBSA scheme’s dockside setting will offer an abundance of natural parks, woods and health resources.
The buildings, designed by internationally renowned architects Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) and HWKN Architecture, offers exceptional sustainability credential and wellness features.
“The Dockside Canada Water development will provide essential student and affordable housing in Southwark while transforming the local area through new public spaces and connections. Working closely with Art-Invest, we have taken a resident-led design approach to Plot B, focusing on how future students, new homeowners and existing residents can live together harmoniously to create a thriving new neighbourhood.
“This meant better pedestrian routes to and from local transport hubs; a new public garden, greater connections and integration with the surrounding area, and an emphasis on passive-sustainable, enduring design.”
Nenad Manasijevic, Principal Director, tp bennett
Plot A at the scheme is delivering over 65,000 sqm of Grade A, sustainability-led office space.
