February 25, 2024
By Alexandre Trochut
Printworks London revival as a cultural landmark
Printworks London, the renowned post-industrial superclub, is poised to make a comeback by 2026. This potential revival comes as site owners and property developers British Land and AustraliaSuper have entered into exclusive discussions with Broadwick, the electronic music operator behind it.
The envisioned venue will occupy one portion of the existing building, while the other segment, dubbed the Grand Press, will undergo a transformation into offices accommodating 1,500 employees and retail establishments. The consortium has submitted their proposal to Southwark Council aiming to secure planning permission within the coming months.
What appeals to us about it is that it’s creating a new piece of city and a new district for London. We intend to create a permanent cultural venue and put it on the map globally. Over the last six years, Printworks has become an iconic venue for electronic music and one of the top five clubs in the world. But our plans seek to push that to deliver a much broader programme.
Emma Cariaga, British Land, CoHead of Canada Water & Head of Residential
A Community-Fueled Victory
Concerns over Printworks’ closure first arose in October 2021 when property developer British Land submitted a proposal to convert the 6,000-capacity club into office space. This announcement sparked a widespread backlash from the dance music community, leading to over 10,000 signatures on a petition to preserve the club.
In 2022, Broadwick Live, the organization behind Printworks, revealed that discussions were underway to reopen the venue following the site’s redevelopment.
Although the future was uncertain at the time, plans were approved in July 2022, setting the stage for the venue’s closure after a final series of parties in late April and early May 2023. These farewell events featured performances by renowned artists like Peggy Gou, Bicep, and Black Coffee, with the hope that Printworks would reopen in 2026.
Emma Cariaga, a key figure in British Land’s project leadership, underscores the potential to establish a new cultural landmark in London. The reopening of Printworks based on his legacy will make it again a premier destination for electronic music enthusiasts worldwide. The club was voted #2 best club in the world in DJ Mag Top Clubs 2023.
World-renowned architectural firm already commissioned
Architects Hawkins\Brown have been tasked with preserving the venue’s original industrial aesthetics while adapting it to host a diverse array of events. From electronic dance music nights to immersive art exhibitions and corporate functions. The proposed redevelopment plans include repurposing the Inkwells into a dedicated performance space for immersive experiences and intimate music events.
Once known as Harmsworth Quays, The Printworks was home to the printing presses that produced newspapers including the Daily Mail and Evening Standard. The redevelopment features residential and commercial spaces, including up to 3,000 new homes (35% as affordable housing) & office for 20,000 professionals.
