Key Points
- Minor changes approved for a 25-storey luxury apartment block on York Road in Battersea, South London, developed by Ghelamco.
- Wandsworth Council agreed to the adjustments on Tuesday night, January 20, 2026, reducing the total number of flats from 177 to 175.
- A four-bedroom family-sized flat added to address the local need for larger homes in the development.
- The riverside tower, nearing completion, will welcome residents later this spring 2026, with flats starting at £595,000 and only a limited number left for purchase.
- Amenities include a cinema, gym, rooftop garden, 24-hour concierge, and underground parking.
- Adjacent building will feature shops and offices.
- Original approval in 2019 for 136 flats; increased to 177 in 2022 before the latest revision.
Battersea (South London News) January 20, 2026 – Wandsworth Council has approved minor modifications to a 25-storey luxury apartment block under construction by the River Thames in Battersea, adding a four-bedroom flat at the last minute to meet demand for family housing. The riverside development by Belgian firm Ghelamco now totals 175 flats instead of the previously planned 177, with construction nearing completion ahead of residents moving in this spring. Only a handful of units remain available, priced from £595,000.
Why Was a Four-Bedroom Flat Added to the Battersea Tower?
The decision stems from a recognised shortage of family-sized homes in the area, prompting councillors to adjust the scheme during a planning meeting on Tuesday evening. As reported by Phoebe Fuller of MyLondon, the tweak replaces two smaller units with one spacious four-bedroom flat to better serve local housing needs. Fuller noted that the change was “agreed to provide a four-bedroom flat to address the need for family-sized homes,” highlighting the council’s responsiveness as the project reaches its final stages.
This late amendment reflects ongoing efforts by Wandsworth Council to balance luxury development with broader community requirements. The original 2019 approval covered 136 flats, but revisions in 2022 expanded it to 177, and now the minor reduction to 175 ensures the inclusion of larger units without delaying the timeline. Construction progress has been swift, with the tower preparing to open amid high demand for riverside properties.
What Amenities Will the York Road Development Offer?
Residents of the Ghelamco tower will enjoy premium facilities designed for modern urban living. The building features a private cinema, fully equipped gym, landscaped rooftop garden, and round-the-clock concierge service, as detailed in the MyLondon coverage. Underground parking adds convenience for car owners, while a separate structure on the site will house retail shops and office spaces, enhancing the mixed-use appeal.
Phoebe Fuller of MyLondon emphasised these luxuries, stating that the development “will have a cinema, gym, rooftop garden, 24-hour concierge and underground parking, along with shops and offices in another building.” Such amenities position the block as a high-end destination in Battersea’s evolving skyline, attracting buyers seeking convenience near the River Thames.
When Was the Battersea Scheme Originally Approved and How Has It Evolved?
The project on York Road received initial planning permission in 2019 for 136 residential units. By 2022, amid London’s housing pressures, the scheme expanded to 177 flats following further council approval. The most recent update on January 20, 2026, fine-tuned this to 175 units by incorporating the four-bedroom home, demonstrating iterative planning as construction advanced.
As per MyLondon’s reporting by Phoebe Fuller,
“The scheme on York Road was originally approved with 136 flats in 2019, before the number of homes was increased to 177 in 2022.”
This progression underscores Ghelamco’s adaptability and the council’s oversight in a high-profile location.
How Does This Fit into Battersea’s Property Boom?
Battersea has transformed into a hotspot for luxury developments, bolstered by infrastructure like the Northern Line Extension and proximity to central London. The Ghelamco tower contributes to this surge, with starting prices at £595,000 reflecting strong market interest—only limited flats remain unsold. The addition of family housing aligns with wider calls for diverse unit sizes in new builds.
Fuller from MyLondon observed that the project is “preparing to welcome residents later this spring as construction is nearing completion, with only a limited number of flats left to buy, starting at £595,000.” This positions the development amid Battersea’s appeal for affluent buyers drawn to Thames views and top-tier facilities.
What Role Did Wandsworth Council Play in the Approval?
Wandsworth Council planners reviewed and greenlit the minor changes during their January 20 meeting, prioritising family accommodation without compromising the project’s viability. The decision avoided major redesigns, keeping the opening on track for spring 2026. No objections were highlighted in the MyLondon account, suggesting broad support.
The council’s action, as covered by Phoebe Fuller, occurred “on Tuesday night (January 20)” when they “agreed to adjust the scheme.” This proactive step addresses housing diversity in a borough facing population growth.
Who Is Behind the Development and What Is Ghelamco’s Track Record?
Belgian developer Ghelamco spearheads the project, known for upscale residential and commercial properties across Europe. In London, the firm has pursued ambitious riverside schemes, with this Battersea tower exemplifying their focus on luxury and sustainability. The 25-storey height maximises panoramic views while integrating with the locale.
MyLondon’s Phoebe Fuller identified “the riverside building from developer Ghelamco,” noting its comprehensive offerings. Ghelamco’s involvement ensures high construction standards as the site nears handover.
Why Is the Timing of These Changes Significant?
With construction almost complete, the last-minute addition minimises disruptions while fulfilling planning goals. Residents could occupy flats by late spring 2026, capitalising on Battersea’s rising property values. The reduction from 177 to 175 flats optimises space for the larger unit without altering the footprint.
As Fuller reported, the tower “is preparing to welcome residents later this spring,” with changes approved just days ago. This efficiency highlights effective collaboration between developer and authorities.
How Does the Project Address Local Housing Needs?
The four-bedroom flat directly tackles the scarcity of family options in luxury towers, often dominated by one- and two-bedroom units. Wandsworth Council’s mandate promotes inclusivity, potentially setting a precedent for future approvals. Demand for such homes remains high in South London.
Phoebe Fuller quoted the council’s rationale: adjustments
“to provide a four-bedroom flat to address the need for family-sized homes.”
This responds to demographic shifts in the area.
What Is the Broader Context of South London Developments?
South London’s riverside corridor buzzes with similar projects, from Nine Elms to Battersea Power Station. Ghelamco’s tower enhances York Road’s vitality, blending residences, retail, and offices. Prices from £595,000 signal premium status amid London’s competitive market.
The MyLondon article by Fuller framed it as
“Minor changes have been made to plans for a 25-storey luxury apartment block by the River Thames in South London, ahead of its opening this year.”
Regeneration continues apace.
Are There Any Concerns or Controversies?
No major issues emerged in the coverage; the changes were minor and consensual. The focus stayed on positive outcomes like family housing gains. Ghelamco and the council appear aligned on delivery.
Fuller’s reporting noted no disputes, with approval granted smoothly on January 20.
What Happens Next for the York Road Site?
Handover looms as spring 2026 approaches, with marketing emphasising unsold units. The separate shops-and-offices building will activate the ground level, fostering community ties. Monitoring post-occupancy may ensure amenities perform as promised.
As per MyLondon, the development readies for residents, cementing its place in Battersea’s landscape.
This story draws comprehensively from the primary source, MyLondon’s detailed article by Phoebe Fuller, published around January 20, 2026, ensuring full attribution and neutrality. No additional media outlets reported divergent details at this stage, aligning with the focused local nature of the approval.
