City of London Proposes New Skyscraper Zone Near Liverpool Street

Plans for a new skyscraper site in London’s Square Mile have been unveiled, with the City of London Corporation recommending the inclusion of the “Broadgate Tall Building Site” in its forthcoming Local Plan. This development would mark the third area designated for tall buildings in the City, alongside existing clusters near the Gherkin and Fleet Valley.

The Broadgate site, situated near Liverpool Street, is intended for a limited number of large developments rather than a dense cluster of skyscrapers. One project already approved in the vicinity is the 2 Finsbury Avenue, which will feature two towers measuring 21 and 36 storeys. A spokesperson for the City of London Corporation emphasized that the new plan aims to foster both growth and heritage, ensuring a careful balance between the two.

The suggestion of the Broadgate site emerged during public hearings for the City Plan 2040, which covers various aspects such as transportation, development, and green space management. The draft plan includes ambitious goals, including becoming a net-zero city and adding over 1 million square metres of office space. A previous iteration, the City Plan 2036, faced setbacks during consultations in 2021, leading to its withdrawal for further revisions.

Public Consultation and Modifications

In August 2023, the revised Draft City Plan was submitted for public examination by Planning Inspectors Alastair Phillips and Jameson Bridgwater. The hearings, which involved Corporation officers and various stakeholders, focused on the draft plan’s strategic priorities. Following these sessions, the Inspectors recommended a total of 178 changes, of which 68 were linked to the plan’s soundness, particularly concerning heritage and tall buildings.

Among the significant changes is the identification of the Broadgate site, located close to Hackney. This addition aims to help meet the demand for high-quality office space in the Square Mile. The City Corporation will now move forward with a six-week consultation on these modifications, slated to conclude by the end of January 2024. Feedback from this consultation will be compiled and sent to the Inspectors for further review, with a final report anticipated in May 2024.

Heritage Concerns and Future Developments

The hearings raised substantial concerns regarding the potential impact on heritage assets. One notable site mentioned was the Bevis Marks Synagogue, the UK’s oldest continuously operating synagogue. Rabbi Shalom Morris described it as a “national treasure,” warning that nearby developments could obstruct its historical views.

At the same time, redevelopment plans for Liverpool Street Station have also sparked debate. Network Rail has proposed a controversial scheme that includes a 19-storey office block above the station concourse, which has faced criticism from heritage advocates. Simon Sturgis, founder of Targeting Net Zero, has expressed concerns that the project does not align with key carbon emission policies and should be rejected.

A spokesperson for Network Rail defended the project, asserting it is necessary for the station’s growth and will enhance accessibility. The proposed changes aim to increase the station’s capacity by 30% annually.

The City of London Corporation remains committed to a planning framework that supports both modern development and the preservation of historical integrity. As it moves forward with the City Plan 2040, there is a clear focus on creating a sustainable future for one of the world’s leading business districts while respecting its rich heritage.