The Reuse of Industrial Heritage in the UK - A Focus on Battersea Power Station in London

This paper examines the redevelopment of Battersea Power Station as a case study in the reuse of industrial heritage in the UK. Battersea Power Station operated as a major power source for London from 1933 to 1983, but it was abandoned for a long period after its decommissioning. The redevelopment plans were influenced by changes in the British Government, experiencing multiple failures and fluctuations. Ultimately, in 2012, the development project by a Malaysian consortium was approved, transforming Battersea Power Station into a commercial and residential space while preserving its historical value. This process pursued sustainable development by maintaining the Art Deco architectural style and incorporating eco-friendly elements. Notably, the four chimneys, which had been neglected for 39 years, were restored with their original design and colour preserved. Various measures were also implemented, such as creating an ecological environment for Grade I protected birds and installing a sustainable energy centre. Although there has been criticism regarding the reduction of affordable housing for low-income residents and the increased proportion of luxury shops and housing, cooperation between the local government (the London Borough of Wandsworth), developers, and the local community such as the Battersea Power Station Community Group has led to the establishment of public space utilisation plans. The redevelopment of Battersea Power Station highlights the importance of industrial heritage preservation and offers valuable lessons for similar projects in Korea.