The City of London's proposal to build skyscrapers near the Tower of London has been approved, despite objections from conservationists who argued the new buildings would spoil views of the historic landmark.
The Planning Inspectorate, which oversees planning applications in the area, sided with the City of London's plans to construct skyscrapers on the eastern boundary of the financial district. This decision overruled the alternative proposal put forward by Historic England, the government's advisory body on heritage.
Heritage concerns over Tower's skyline
Historic England had argued that a "larger uninterrupted gap of clear sky" was necessary to preserve the Tower's appearance. The Tower of London's status as a World Heritage site is partly dependent on its skyline as seen from the River Thames.
The City of London countered that rejecting their proposal would result in up to one million fewer square feet of office space being built.
Inspectorate's decision
In a letter published on Thursday, the Planning Inspectorate stated: "We are not persuaded that the Historic England contours would result in a materially different heritage outcome from that achieved by the City Plan contours". The letter added that the City of London's plans would allow for "continued visual separation between the Tower and the City Cluster", while Historic England's proposal would "materially reduce development capacity".
As a result of the Planning Inspectorate's findings, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government gave the go ahead to the City of London's plans.
Reactions
Tom Sleigh, chair of the City of London's planning and transportation committee, said: "This was never a choice between the Tower of London and jobs. The City was here first. William the Conqueror started his tower in 1078 in the corner of a city already a thousand years old, and the two have grown side by side ever since. Independent inspectors have now tested the plan and agreed: the Tower is protected and the City has room to grow."
Historic England said: "We acknowledge the minister's decision and we remain committed to working constructively with all partners to achieve an appropriate balance between supporting economic growth and protecting London's internationally significant historic environment."
The Planning Inspectorate has declined to comment.
