Winchester: Successful architects' firm announced for Station Approach

Winchester City Council has announced the appointment of Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands as the architects to take forward the Station Approach development.

The firm - well known for the Oxo Tower landmark project in London, and the new flagship store for Foyles at Charing Cross Road, will plan the regeneration of the Winchester city centre site after a tender process.

Following the approval of the firm’s tender at the council’s cabinet meeting on August 14, and the ending of a mandatory 10-day ‘standstill period’, the appointment marks 'an important step in progressing development' at Station Approach, said the council.

Caroline Horrill, leader of Winchester City Council, said: “Developing Station Approach is an important aspect of our vision for Winchester’s future and will allow us to offer much needed Grade A office space to the business community who are regularly requesting premises of this calibre in the city.

"The area creates that all-important first impression for many people who come to the city and serves thousands of commuters every month. The appointment of Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands is our first step in regenerating the area so it is appealing to residents, businesses and visitors alike. The next step is to develop concept designs - as with all our major projects consultation with residents and other stakeholders is absolutely key and ensuring this is done satisfactorily has played a critical role in the RIBA selection process.”

The process has been overseen by RIBA Competitions and its adviser Roger Hawkins, chaired the Council’s Project Evaluation Board.

Roger Hawkins, Hawkins/Brown, RIBA adviser explained: “This is an important site within Winchester city centre and the standard of applicants was high. Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands demonstrated their public engagement skills and clear understanding of the need to engage residents and bring their views into the designs and the Project. The team scored very highly across the board.”

Alex Lifschutz, Director, said: “We’re proud to be awarded this prestigious project. This area of the city has an important role to play. We will be looking to maintain a sense of ‘Winchester’ in the area – people need to know they have arrived in a special place steeped in culture, showcasing heritage and benefitting from open spaces. We’re committed to making sure that we consult and engage with residents and visitors to ensure we reach a design solution that works for the city.”

The Council is tasking the successful tenderer to design the area with a sensitive blend of commercial and residential property developments. As an initial task Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands will scope the mix and balance of different uses across the Carfax and Cattlemarket sites.