King's Cross Group grants landmark long-term lease for permanent community garden

• The New Story Garden, created with Global Generation, has been secured through a long-term lease

• The launch represents a long-term commitment to community infrastructure by The King’s Cross Group

The King’s Cross Group has agreed a long-term lease with environmental education charity Global Generation, securing the permanent future of a new neighbourhood garden and learning space at King's Cross in one of the longest community-focused commitments of its kind.

Opening in summer 2026, the new site on York Way will provide a home for environmental education, skills and community programmes. The garden, which has transformed a former brownfield site, was created through a local-led build programme, using circular design principles and reclaimed construction materials.

The partnership represents an innovative approach to public realm space and stewardship, enabling an independent charity to manage the garden for decades to come. The project reflects The King’s Cross Group’s focus on delivering long-term social impact, creating opportunities for local people to connect with nature, develop skills and participate in community life.

Leo Shapland, CEO of The King’s Cross Group, said: “Creating successful places is about more than buildings. The long-term lease reflects our belief that community infrastructure should have the same permanence and ambition as the buildings around it. By providing a lasting home for Global Generation, we are creating an asset that will benefit local residents, occupiers and visitors for generations to come.

“As our long-standing partner, Global Generation’s work strengthens local relationships across the neighbourhood, connects people through nature, and supports our ambition to deliver lasting positive outcomes for communities. It is partnerships like these that help make King’s Cross a more connected, inclusive and resilient place.”

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