The iconic Grade I listed buildings will not be affected by the changes

A leading business school has won permission to increase student numbers by more than 50 per cent after Westminster Council agreed plans to expand its site in Regent’s Park.

The London Business School (LBS), on the perimeter of the park, will build an underground auditorium while demolishing and rebuilding part of the site.

Almost 50 residents and conservation groups objected to the plans, which will create more than 12,000 square metres of educational floor space, equivalent to a 45 per cent increase.

Satisfied

The number of full-time students will rise from 1,000 to more than 1,500.

Westminster planning committee chairman Cllr Alastair Moss said: “We were satisfied that the proposals struck the right balance between enhancing the capacity and facilities of the internationally recognised school, whilst protecting the amenities of local residents and the special character of the listed buildings in the area.”

Regent’s Park Cllr Robert Rigby said: “When the plans were first brought to us in 2010 they weren’t acceptable, but the school engaged more with officers and the council and trimmed things back .

“What is finally delivered will be good for the school and the residents.

“The school is an asset to Westminster and to London as a whole.”