Low Line Commons

Urban Design

A sustainable, urban design narrative to transform the Low Line walking route into a vibrant resource and region for socio-economic and environmental growth. The project was won through an international design competition of 82 entrants.

Client: Better Bankside
Location: London

Historically the 150-year old Victorian viaducts through Bankside, London Bridge and Bermondsey, which form the Low Line route, have been left underused at street level. This creates a physical barrier between central and south London. The strategic masterplan celebrates the area’s diverse neighbourhood and renowned heritage.

Following a thorough analysis, four initial key interlinked themes are proposed, a productive green infrastructure, convivial public space, diverse and green economy, and historical and cultural connections. Responding to community in each location, a series of hubs are encouraged to blossom into a ‘sense of place’ . Over time these will catalyse further spin- offs in the area that will be curated to create a larger reinvigorated, people-oriented district along the length of the Low Line. By increasing permeability and connectivity the route will be transformed into a seam stitching the immediate context together.