Victoria hub revamp plan approved

Work on the scheme to revamp Victoria could begin in 2010

Plans to transform the area around London's Victoria rail and coach station have been given the go-ahead.

About 205 flats, office and shops will be created as part of the Victoria Transport Interchange scheme which could begin as early as autumn 2010.

Westminster Council said it hoped the project would create up to 8,500 jobs.

The scheme, which could cost up to £1bn, will complement a planned revamp of the bus terminus and Victoria railway and Underground stations.

Councillors approved the project on Thursday after designers Land Securities reduced the height of buildings in keeping with the city skyline.

Under the plans new offices, shops and housing will transform the area between Buckingham Palace Road, Bressenden Place and Victoria Street.

It is hoped the project will be completed by 2017.

The project is expected to create 8,500 jobs

Councillor Alastair Moss said more than 250,000 people commute to Victoria every day making it "dreadfully cramped and congested".

He said: "This revised scheme will see the much needed regeneration of Victoria without adversely impacting on Westminster's UNESCO World Heritage site, a key concern of the council.

"I feel the right balance has been struck in terms of the height and density of the buildings, as well as the variety of residential, office and retail, which also includes a brand new library for the local community and the creation of much needed open space."

He added the project was "on the cards despite the recession".

Mr Moss also said once completed the project would add £2.1m annually to London's economy.