The BT Tower, a 1960s London icon, is set to reopen as a luxury hotel with a rooftop pool after being closed to the public for 46 years. The Grade II-listed building in Fitzrovia, which was London's tallest structure at 177 metres when completed in 1964, has been inaccessible to the public since 1981, except for special events. Architecture firm Orms has unveiled plans to transform the tower into a hotel with a visitor experience centre, shops, and cafés, according to a public consultation held earlier this week.
Rooftop Pool and Visitor Experience
Artist's impressions show a rooftop pool offering panoramic views of the capital. The visitor experience space will also provide skyline views and a look at the tower's history. On the ground floor, the retro 1960s buildings will be converted into shops and cafés, with plans to remove "unsightly" modern additions. A new public square with pedestrian routes will serve as the entrance and exit to the visitor experience. A new staircase will open up the main body of the tower, with hotel rooms arranged around its core.
Timeline and Planning
Camden Council is expected to receive the planning application this autumn. If approved, work could begin in 2029, once BT decommissions and removes equipment from the site. Past consultations have suggested that levels 24 to 30 could become "spaces for art and cultural engagement," although no firm plans have been announced.
Historic Background
The tower, originally named the Post Office Tower, was damaged by a bomb in 1971, leading to the closure of its restaurant and viewing galleries. It was renamed British Telecom Tower in the 1980s and has since served as a communications hub, known for its 360-degree news display screen. The tower has been an iconic part of the London skyline for decades.
Other London Landmark Transformations
The BT Tower redevelopment follows a trend of London landmarks being converted into hotels. Custom House on the River Thames is set to become a 179-room luxury hotel with a basement spa, 25m pool, and waterfront restaurants. Admiralty Arch on The Mall is also opening as a Waldorf Astoria hotel this autumn, offering views of Buckingham Palace, restaurants, and a spa.
