Knightsbridge road by Harrods set for major revamp

5 hours ago

Katherine GrayLocal Democracy Reporting Service

News image — New images reveal plans to transform a popular retail and hospitality destination in Knightsbridge

Andy Sturgeon Design Image of a wide pedestrianised street lined with trees, benches and planted flower beds. People are walking, sitting and socialising outside shopfronts beneath white buildings with green awnings. — New images reveal plans to transform a popular retail and hospitality destination in Knightsbridge

Plans to revamp a road which acts as a popular west London retail and hospitality destination between luxury store Harrods and Knightsbridge Tube station have been revealed.

The joint venture by the Knightsbridge Estate and Harrods is intended to deliver improvements to Hans Crescent, with better lighting and public seating.

New greenery would also be introduced, including three new trees and about 80 sq m (860 sq ft) of planting. The project is due to be completed by autumn 2026.

Michael Ward, the department store's managing director, said the plans "reflect our dedication to the long-term commitment to the stewardship of Knightsbridge".

The work includes introducing six new seating areas, new lamp-posts and an area for temporary art installations.

Ward said: "The project goes beyond traditional urban enhancement; it creates an inclusive, welcoming communal space that elevates the shopper experience while prioritising sustainability."

The Knightsbridge Estate is a large retail area that sits between Harrods and Harvey Nichols, which has cafes, restaurants and retail units.

Redevelopment of a large portion of it has already delivered 33 luxury rental apartments and a rooftop restaurant, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Andy Sturgeon Design Image of a wide pedestrian street between white multi-storey buildings. Large trees and raised planted beds with wooden seating in the centre of the street. There are people walking along the paved walkway and some sitting. Shopfronts are visible on the left side of the street, with outdoor tables and chairs along the right side of the street — The Knightsbridge Estate is a large retail area that sits between Harrods and Harvey Nichols

Councillor Josh Rendall, lead member for transport, parks, and clean streets at Kensington and Chelsea Council, said: "Hans Crescent is a great example of the kind of place-making our residents, businesses and visitors expect in Kensington and Chelsea; greener, cleaner, more welcoming and easier to enjoy on foot.

"Projects like this support our Amazing Spaces ambition by improving the public realm, strengthening local character and making our borough's high streets and destinations even better places to spend time in."

He added that the redevelopment would improve the experiences of visitors and residents, including the delivery of a new step-free entrance to Knightsbridge Underground station.

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