Located in the heart of South London, the Low Line represents a great opportunity for the development of the London area.

The objective of the proposal is to regenerate the current infrastructure, transforming it into a catalyst for people and opportunities. The predominant character will be the environmental one, with the aim of creating a new green way that will integrate and enhance the existing green system in the project area.

1-            LOW LINE MAIN AXIS

The starting point of the proposal is the Victorian Arch, a distinctive and unique feature of the urban viaduct front. This element, integrated into the existing urban fabric, is used as main element for the design of the public space. This operation allows the creation of a totally free car public space system that runs

continuously along the entire axis of the Low Line, eliminating the current barriers.

2-            LOW LINE CROSS AXIS

The existing viaducts crossings were redeveloped according to two guidelines: increasing safety and increasing soft mobility. The strategy adopted envisages the use of color and the enhancement of public lighting, in order to create a system of colored tunnel, safe and easily recognizable.

3-            EXISTING EMPTY VIADUCT LOCALS

The viaduct has some rooms currently vacant, in particular in Bankside. The area is already rich in activities and functions, but has a lack of public spaces. The strategy adopted envisages the use of these spaces as indoor public space or indoor park.

4-            EXISTING PUBLIC SPACES

The proposal has spotted some existing public spaces that need to be integrated with the new infrastructure, in order to create continuity with the system. The points identified are close to important existing hubs (Southwark Station, Borough Market, London Bridge Station) or developing area (Biscuit Factory).

5-            EXISTING GREEN

The predominant character of the Low Line will be the environmental one. From the strategic point of view the integration of the new greenway with the existing green system will give the possibility to create ecological corridors. In particular, the area near St. John’s Church Park and Potters Fields Park and the area from St. James’s Road and the river Thames, realising the Green Banana.

Urban regeneration


Location: London, UK

Year: 2021

Status: Competition entry

Lowline