London Borough Tower Hamlets Civic Centre

Client
London Borough of Tower Hamlets
Contractor
Value
£124.75
Completion Date
May 2022

Redevelopment of London Royal Hospital into Tower Hamlets Town Hall. Architects AHMM, construction Bougyues UK

The Challenge

The London Borough of Tower Hamlets needed a modern, efficient civic hub to consolidate services and improve accessibility for residents. The existing facilities were outdated and scattered, creating inefficiencies and limiting engagement. The project required transforming the historic former Royal London Hospital building into a sustainable, inclusive Town Hall while preserving its heritage features.

There are some complex challenges to overcome – An emergency helicopter flight path above; a London Underground tunnel below; a combination of busy roads and party walls around the site and the proximity of two large, working hospitals, the Royal London Dental Hospital and the Royal London Hospital.

The Solution

Procured through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF), Bouygues UK delivered a comprehensive refurbishment and extension of the Grade II listed building, integrating modern office spaces, public meeting areas, and council chambers. The team worked closely with conservation specialists to retain key architectural elements while introducing energy-efficient systems and contemporary design. Collaboration with the client ensured the building met high sustainability standards, including BREEAM Excellent certification, and provided flexible spaces for community use.

The Results

The new Tower Hamlets Town Hall opened as a centralised civic hub , improving service delivery and accessibility for residents. The project successfully blended heritage preservation with modern functionality, creating a welcoming environment for staff and the public. The building now stands as a landmark of sustainable regeneration, supporting the borough’s commitment to community engagement and environmental responsibility delivered through SCF’s collaborative procurement approach.

Furthermore, throughout the four-year build Bouygues created local employment opportunities, training, and apprenticeships, and developed lasting systems, capable of reducing any potential negative impacts on the planet. Showing the builds commitment to social value to the care and protection of our planet.

Contractor Performance | Commitments

Legacy

403 employed people from Tower Hamlets and growth boroughs

240 bicycles spaces

19 apprentices employed

Over 160 hours of work experience.

procured over £6m of goods and services from local businesses.

Sustainability

BREEAM ‘excellent rating for sustainability

Air source heat pump

Rainwater harvesting system

Fair

100% payment within 30 days terms