London’s retail and residential – striking the right balance

Published: March 25, 2019, midnight

What retail occupiers need from their space is changing, driven by the rise of online shopping and growing consumer demand for more experiential environments. With these changing needs comes an opportunity to intensify existing retail locations across London.

It is well understood that London is not building enough homes.  Intensification of retail sites provides a significant opportunity to deliver more homes for Londoners at price points that are affordable to many. Our analysis found that at least half of vacant retail floor space is in areas which can deliver housing below £700psf.

Despite changing consumer behaviour, retail still has a vital role to play in London. Our research shows a clear relationship between a high quality of retail/leisure and successful residential. This highlights the importance of carefully provisioning these lifestyle uses to build a sense of place and genuine amenity for residents, locals and the wider community. A well-curated retail and leisure offering, partnered with quality residential, is key to helping developers execute their mixed-use vision of vibrant, lively places.

But where are the opportunities for retail intensification and how do retail and leisure quality actually influence residential value?

Join Guy Ruddle and guests Marie Hickey, Edward Green and Tom Mann discuss London’s retail residential balancing act…