John Sisk & Son is understood to be the frontrunner for phase 3C of the Battersea Power Station scheme — the final two buildings designed by Gehry Partners — with the Malaysian-backed developer said to be close to finalising a deal.
Industry sources indicate the contract is not yet signed, but Sisk has emerged as the preferred bidder in what would mark a major win for the contractor in London.
The two blocks will complete the Gehry-designed section of the development, known for its distinctive undulating façades, and form the final stretch of Electric Boulevard — the pedestrianised high street at the heart of the scheme.
The project is expected to carry a build cost of £250m–£280m and will include a substantial basement and podium structure supporting two buildings rising up to 15 storeys. Plans feature 306 residential units alongside 65,000 sq ft of commercial space, including shops, cafés and restaurants, plus a 15,000 sq ft community hub and a 600-space cycle facility.
Sir Robert McAlpine previously acted as construction manager for the first Gehry-designed building at Battersea, Prospect Place.
A site start is anticipated within months, signalling renewed momentum for the wider development after a slower period in London’s residential market.
Earlier this month, James Saunders — former Quintain boss — was appointed chief executive of the Battersea Power Station development company, where he will oversee delivery of the remaining 16 acres of the 42-acre riverside site.
Studio Egret West is now reworking the masterplan originally created by Rafael Viñoly, adapting later phases to reflect changing demands across residential, workspace and leisure uses.
The revised plans are expected to unlock up to 3.2 million sq ft of additional development across the remaining 40% of the site.
Since acquiring the derelict power station in 2012, the Malaysian consortium has invested around £5bn into the scheme, delivering more than 2,200 homes, 800,000 sq ft of office space, over 150 retail and leisure units, and the extension of the Northern Line into Battersea.