The scheme is the latest phase in the College’s plan to expand its presence in Battersea. Following an extensive programme of renovation, the Sculpture Department has reopened and work on a new Painting Department has already begun.

The campus will eventually house the Schools of Fine Art and Applied Art, and also provide accommodation for start-up units for new businesses in the fields of art and design as well as a gallery and lecture theatre.

The new premises will offer studio and workshop space for photography, printmaking, ceramics, glass, gold and silver work. The floor space will exceed 7,000 square metres. The development will be car free with 58 cycle spaces and a minibus linking to the Kensington site.

Around 250 students and staff will relocate from the main college campus in Kensington.

Sir Christopher Frayling, Rector of the Royal College of Art said:
“We are delighted that the scheme has been granted planning approval. We have worked extremely closely with Wandsworth Council in order to ensure that the new campus will prove a worthy addition to the area, both for the College and for the local residents of the borough. Wandsworth have been very welcoming to us.”

Architect Graham Haworth, of Haworth Tompkins said:
"We’re very excited that our designs for the building have been so well received by the planners and the general public. The prospect of a contemporary forward looking building on the site, particularly one to house something as creative as the Royal College of Art is good news all round."

Chairman of Planning Applications Committee Leslie McDonnell said:
"The college is a huge asset for Battersea. It will create a vibrant mix of uses for students together with opportunities for start-up businesses. The development will provide a high quality building that will enhance the character of the area. It is great news for the local community."

To download this press release in PDF format, click here.