How precast concrete is helping turn a former biscuit factory site into a new London neighbourhood
Precast concrete is doing more than merely shaping the façade at Bermondsey S&T.
It is helping turn a former industrial site into 472 new homes, showing how industrial construction can support housing-led regeneration with speed, quality and character.
Once home to the Peek Freans Biscuit Factory, the Greystar-led site forms part of a wider regeneration story in Bermondsey. Within Pearl Yard, Bermondsey S&T is bringing new homes, workspaces and amenity space to a landmark brownfield location.
“Precast concrete is helping turn industrial heritage into a new neighbourhood.”
Industrial construction with a sense of place
Designed by AFK Studios and delivered by John Sisk & Son, the scheme uses 1,722 bespoke precast concrete panels manufactured and installed by Techrete in just 16 months, helping to save five weeks on the overall programme. The result is a delivery model built on precision and repeatability, but one that still creates a rich architectural response rooted in Bermondsey’s industrial past.
Brick-faced precast panels, reconstructed stone details and deep-set windows give the towers weight and texture, while arches at ground level connect the new buildings to the area’s warehouse character. It is a strong example of modern construction supporting placemaking rather than flattening it.
“Precision and repeatability do not have to come at the expense of character.”
Why precast matters in regeneration
For complex urban schemes, precast concrete offers a practical advantage. Off-site manufacture improves quality control, reduces pressure on constrained sites and helps keep delivery on track. At Bermondsey S&T, that has supported construction next to a major rail corridor without losing architectural ambition.
“This is housing-led regeneration delivered through industrial construction.”
A regeneration story worth watching
Bermondsey S&T shows what industrial construction can look like at its best: faster, more controlled delivery paired with a serious response to heritage, context and housing need. It is an excellent model showcasing how brownfield regeneration can be delivered using precast construction to build new homes at scale.