No snap decisions over potential alligator park in £230m London regeneration project

An iconic landmark in the capital could be transformed into the city’s first alligator farm according to a London developer.

South and West London developer Avanton has been tasked with transforming the iconic gasholder on the landmark site at Old Kent Road, as part of a £230m regeneration project.

It is considering a range of options, including transforming it into a striking art-like architectural feature within the area’s gardens and parkland.

Avanton will seek consultation with reptile and environmental experts before undertaking the alligator project, but said it plans to add special shielded glass to form a conservatory and pavilion at the 20 metre deep gasholder to create the perfect environment for alligators to breed.

The proposed farm would be the first of its kind in London and, Avanton says, could be highly popular with the local schools and colleges in the London Borough of Southwark and further afield. The facility also has the potential to inspire schools and deliver an ‘adventure facility’ within the new development.

The 1.6-hectare Gasholders site is already earmarked for a significant residential and commercial development, with plans to provide hundreds of new homes including affordable housing, open space and 50,000 sq ft of industrial use space to support the Council’s Healthy Living Strategy.

Avanton is also working on a 1,152-strong residential development at Ruby Triangle, due to launch later this year, as well as a 262-unit scheme at 651 Old Kent Road, 40 per cent of which will be affordable homes.