This project running from 1985-1990 at 1 Embankment Place, Villiers Street, London incorporated an air rights development over the existing train line at Charing Cross. In 1990 most of the area over the British Rail platforms was covered by Embankment Place, a post-modern office and shopping complex designed by Terry Farrell and Partners.

The project was technologically innovative, involving suspension of seven to nine storeys of offices above the railway tracks, to isolate the space from railway vibration. The resulting bowstring arch over the tracks was supported on 18 columns rising through the platforms. The uninterrupted office space was constructed from a series of floorplates rising nine storeys. Retail and restaurant accommodation was distributed in the vaults below the station and in a new infill building which completed the streetscape to the adjoining Villiers Street.

This development led to the replacement of most of the 1906 roof. The rear two spans of this structure, immediately adjacent to the existing concourse roof, were retained as part of an enlarged waiting area. In addition the original retaining side walls of the station which once supported it remained in near complete condition.

The original Charing Cross masterplan also included suggestions for improvements for the Hungerford Bridge as part of a series of environmental improvements to pedestrian circulation. In 1990, a proposed scheme was submitted which included redevelopment of the land between Embankment Place and Carrara House at the corner of Villiers Street. There are some plans within the Charing Cross project files that may relate to the Hungerford Bridge development.

Client: Greycoat Plc