Rick de Blaby, CEO of Get Living, is at the helm of a significant redevelopment project in Elephant & Castle, South London, with a mission to reshape the area into a vibrant, mixed-use community. This ambitious project seeks to replace the outdated 1960s shopping centre with modern residential units, retail spaces, and public amenities. The goal is to provide much-needed housing and create a thriving local economy, enhancing the area for both current and future residents.
The redevelopment, which will include nearly 1,000 new homes, has sparked concerns among some local residents and traders. They fear that the influx of new developments could lead to gentrification, displacing long-standing communities and erasing the area’s distinctive character. In response to these worries, De Blaby has emphasised Get Living’s commitment to integrating independent local businesses into the development. By doing so, they aim to preserve the area’s authenticity and avoid the creation of a sterile, commercial environment often seen in large-scale redevelopments.
This project is part of Get Living’s broader strategy to contribute to addressing the UK’s ongoing housing crisis. The build-to-rent sector, in which the company operates, has been growing rapidly in recent years as a response to rising demand for rental properties in urban areas. The Elephant & Castle redevelopment reflects this approach, as the development will offer a mix of privately rented homes, affordable retail spaces, and a percentage of socially rented flats, ensuring that people from various income brackets can access housing within the area.
However, the project is not without its challenges. One notable hurdle has been a series of legal disputes over fire safety regulations in Get Living’s previous developments. Despite this, De Blaby remains steadfast in his commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable housing solutions. The team is working closely with local authorities and stakeholders to ensure that all regulatory standards are met, with a focus on providing secure, environmentally friendly homes for future tenants.
The Elephant & Castle project is emblematic of London’s ongoing urban regeneration efforts, balancing the need for new housing with the preservation of community identity. The project will provide a significant boost to the local economy while creating much-needed residential spaces in a city facing a growing housing shortage. By addressing the concerns of residents, while fostering growth and sustainability, Get Living aims to create a model for future urban developments that considers both people and place.
This redevelopment, while ambitious, is a critical step in addressing London’s housing shortage and offers a glimpse into how cities can evolve while maintaining their historical and cultural integrity.
