DLG Architects - Offices Development - London

Date: 11 Aug 2008

National practice DLG Architects has been appointed by the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund to submit a planning application for the renovation of its Headquarters in Portland Place, London.

The instruction will include the renovation of 67 Portland Place, a Grade II star listed building where approximately 14,000 sq ft of the RAF's existing office space will be reconfigured into a mix of cellular office accommodation fronting onto Portland Place and a 8,000 sq ft new build extension to the rear of the building that will contain modern open plan office accommodation. The project is valued at £5.2 million.

Gareth Gerner, Partner at DLG Architects in London comments: "At present the office accommodation at 67 Portland Place is very fragmented and does not complement modern working practices. We are working in collaboration with the RAF Benevolent Fund and their Project Manager, The Berkeley Consultancy, to provide premises that will support 21st century working practices and create a stimulating environment that will support their staff in carrying out the charity's important benevolent work."

It is likely that DLG will submit a planning application to The City of Westminster Council in summer this year and it is expected that the build programme will last approximately eighteen months.

Ernie Bohm, Director of Policy and Plans of the RAF Benevolent Fund, comments: "We appointed DLG because of their previous knowledge of not only conserving but also converting listed buildings into modern and functional office accommodation - notably the redevelopment of 14 Cornhill on Lombard Street in the heart of the City. We are delighted to be working with DLG on the improvement of our office facility."

The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund offers assistance to all past and present Royal Air Force members and their dependants who are in need of support, regardless of rank, job or length of service.

Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund Headquarters