Real estate investment and development group Riverlow submitted plans to redevelop the Grade II listed building in Greenwich High Road in 2022, proposing to build 73 residential units inside it.
The vacant premises have been unoccupied since 2019.
Greenwich Council has now confirmed that it has agreed in principle to the plans, but it is just waiting to secure “community benefits” from Riverlow.
A council spokesperson said: “The council’s planning committee has agreed in principle to proposals for 148 Greenwich High Road, which include new homes designed to meet local needs, and flexible commercial spaces which can be used for workspace, community facilities or retail.
“With applications of this nature, it’s our mission to enhance the surrounding area for both current and future residents, creating a safe, attractive and vibrant neighbourhood. Formal planning permission will only be issued once a legal agreement, which secures these community benefits, is finalised.”
The iconic local building, known as Meridian House, was built in 1938 as Greenwich Town Hall.
It is characterised by its traditional brick facing facade and its 55.9m tall clock tower.
As part of the proposals, the clock tower’s observation deck—which has been inaccessible for over 50 years—will be revamped and then re-opened to the public at least once a year.
The other public area within the redevelopment is the proposed employment space, a single unit fronting Greenwich High Road on the ground and first floor that is intended for use as an office, co-working space, cycle hub or a mix of smaller workshops.
Of the 73 build to rent residential units, 11 of them would be affordable. They are split between one-bed and two-bed apartments, with the sizes ranging from those suitable for a single occupant up to those that would fit a family of four.
Meridian House lies adjacent to Borough Hall, an assembly hall that served as a concert venue.
Its performers include rock bands The Who and Squeeze who gave their first performance there in 1975, an event that has since been commemorated with a blue plaque on the side of the building.
