Competition for DoE HQ site

Environment Secretary John Gummer has launched an open design competition seeking ideas for the redevelopment of the central London site currently occupied by the “notorious” Department of the Environment headquarters.

The 2ha site at Marsham Street in Westminster will be freed for mixed use redevelopment after the DoE’s buildings are demolished.

Gummer says: “It is ironic that one of the most selfish and ill conceived buildings in central London should be the home of the Department of the Environment.

“I see the redevelopment of the Marsham Street site as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to put right the blunders of the past.”

The competition is open to all professional designers and students. There will be a total of 47 500 in prizes for the top three entries. The closing date is 20 September.

Gummer adds: “By concentrating on urban design issues rather than architectural details, designers will be able to produce ideas without incurring great expense.”

Gummer has launched a new draft revision of Planning Policy Guidance note 1, PPG1, calling for sustainable development and good design.