Friars Close

A major milestone has been reached following the demolition of Friars Close, with residents and project partners coming together to mark the occasion.

The redevelopment will provide 149 new homes, including 54 affordable homes, alongside new green and shared spaces. All former residents have been offered a home in the new development.

Work is progressing well and remains on track for completion in spring 2028.

The demolition of Friars Close is now complete. This is a big milestone for the project and an exciting step towards building the new development.

What’s next?
Over the next four weeks, the construction team will be removing the foundations of the former building and prepare a level platform so the new construction activities can begin. We’ll keep you updated as the work moves forward.

Plaque saved
Many residents who lived in the former block, and who will move back once their new homes are built, asked us to keep the original plaque from the old building. We’re pleased to confirm it has been saved. The plaque is now with our construction partners, Mount Anvil, and will be part of the new development as a tribute to the history of Friars Close.

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The soft demolition of the block is underway, with the internal of the block now stripped out and ongoing site surveys in progress. The full demolition of the building has been slightly delayed, and we are in discussions with Southwark to confirm a start date. We will continue to keep everyone informed.

Introducing ‘The Edit’

‘The Edit’ is the new marketing name for the private sale homes within the development. It is common for developments with a mix of private and affordable homes to have different branding.

What will the new development be like?

The redevelopment will provide 149 new homes, including 54 affordable homes, alongside improved green and shared spaces.

The development will be tenure blind, so affordable and private homes will look the same from the outside and residents will share the communal spaces.

How will the new development be kept safe?

The building will meet current fire and building safety standards.

Safety measures will include:

• sprinkler systems
• smoke ventilation
• fire-resistant construction
• safe escape routes
• clear emergency signage.

What parking will be available?

The development will have five accessible parking bays. General resident parking will not be provided, in line with planning requirements for new developments in central London.

Secure cycle storage will also be available.

How will access to the development work?

The current proposal is for the communal gates to be open between 7am and 5pm, subject to agreement with Southwark Council.

Residents will have fob access when the gates are closed.

Will there be a concierge?

No. A concierge is not planned as this would significantly increase service charges.

We’ll confirm arrangements for post and deliveries as the design progresses.

Will residents continue to have a say?

Yes. We’ll continue to involve residents as the redevelopment progresses.

Some decisions must meet planning, building and safety requirements, but resident feedback will continue to shape the development where possible.

What happens if my temporary tenancy needs to be extended?

If the redevelopment is delayed, we’ll let you know as early as possible.

We’ll work with your temporary landlord to extend your tenancy where possible. If this cannot be agreed, Riverside will find you suitable alternative temporary accommodation.

What if I need to move from my temporary home before the new homes are ready?

Speak to us as soon as possible.

We’ll look at your circumstances and work with you to find a suitable solution until your new home is ready.

Will I keep the same tenancy rights?

Yes. You’ll keep the same security of tenure and tenancy rights when you return.

We’ll confirm this in writing. Residents can also get independent legal advice about their tenancy before moving into temporary accommodation.

When will I move back?

The redevelopment is currently expected to be completed in spring 2028.

We’ll keep you updated as construction progresses and give you plenty of notice before your moving date.

Will Riverside pay my moving costs?

Yes. Riverside will cover agreed costs associated with moving back to the development.

This includes reasonable costs for:

• removals
• disconnecting and reconnecting appliances
• redirecting your post
• storing furniture where needed.

We’ll explain what is covered before you move.

Will I receive a Home Loss and Disturbance payment?

Eligible residents will receive a Home Loss payment, with the amount set by the government and reviewed annually.

You’ll also receive a Disturbance payment to cover agreed moving costs. Your moving costs will not be deducted from your Home Loss payment.

How will my new home be allocated?

We’ll visit every tenant to complete a housing needs survey.

This will help us understand:

• your housing needs
• accessibility requirements
• your preferences
• what you need from your new home.

We’ll use this information when allocating homes.

Can I choose where my new home is?

We’ll ask about your preferences and try to accommodate them where possible.

We cannot guarantee a particular floor, position or view because allocations must also consider individual housing and accessibility needs.

Will my new home meet my accessibility needs?

Yes. All homes will have step-free access and all floors will be accessible by lift.

We’ll discuss your individual needs and preferences with you before your new home is allocated.

What will my new home be like?

The new homes will be modern, accessible and energy efficient and will meet Greater London Authority space standards.

They will include:

• step-free access
• underfloor heating
• electric towel radiators in bathrooms
• all-electric heating with no gas
• good levels of natural light.

We’ll give you more information about your individual home before you move.

Will my new home be the same size as my old home?

Room sizes and layouts may be different, but all homes will meet Greater London Authority space standards.

We’ll provide measurements and details about your individual home before you move.

How energy efficient will my new home be?

The homes are being designed to meet current energy-efficiency and sustainability standards.

The final energy rating will be confirmed when the design is complete.

Can I buy my new home?

Your Right to Buy or Right to Acquire will depend on your tenancy and whether you meet the relevant eligibility criteria.

We can explain which scheme applies to you and what your options are.

Will my rent stay the same?

Yes. Your rent will not change because of the redevelopment.

It may still increase each year in line with normal rent increases.

What happens to my rent while I'm in a temporary home?

You’ll continue to pay your normal rent and service charge to Riverside.

If your temporary home costs more, Riverside will cover the agreed difference while you are living there.

How will I pay for heating and electricity?

Heating and electricity will be billed separately.

You’ll be able to choose between a pre-payment or standard meter and will only pay for the energy you use.

Will my Council Tax change?

Council Tax for the new homes will be set by Southwark Council.

If your Council Tax increases when you return, Riverside will cover the increase for four years.