A number of themes and questions emerged during the consultation exercise. Here is a summary:
What security measures will be put in place?
A 30m perimeter zone around the Embassy building will provide a secure safety buffer for nearby residents. Extensive security measures will be integrated within the design of the building, but we are unable to make these details public. All these measures will be within the perimeter, so there will be no impact on surrounding roads and buildings.
Will the Embassy building be sustainable?
The U.S. Department of State is committed to ensuring the new Embassy building meets the highest standards in sustainability; it has therefore set a target of achieving a BREEAM Excellent rating in the design brief which will be provided to the appointed design team.
What will be the impact on existing businesses and residents during construction?
The impact on nearby residents and businesses during construction will be minimised through a series of measures. Construction on the relocated Ponton Road and the new traffic lights and access to Elm Quay Court will be completed before the existing road is closed to ensure the impact on the local transport network is minimal. During construction a management plan will be put in place to ensure that the new Embassy is a considerate neighbour.
How will the Embassy integrate with the surrounding area in terms of transport and pedestrian links?
Future proposals in the area may include a greenway from Vauxhall station: a green pedestrianised route across Nine Elms, running right beside the Embassy. Further pedestrian links are also likely to come forward as future development progresses. The Embassy is just one piece in the Nine Elms Opportunity Area puzzle, and will hopefully act as a catalyst for further investment in the area.