The City of London has introduced tougher building regulations for skyscrapers amid concerns that high-rise developments create wind tunnels capable of knocking over cyclists and pedestrians. Developers will now be required to provide more comprehensive safety assessments, including detailed scale models in wind tunnels and computer simulations, to evaluate how proposed buildings affect street-level conditions.
Under the new guidelines, average wind speeds exceeding 8 metres per second (18mph) will be reclassified as 'uncomfortable' in all circumstances. Developers must modify designs if they are deemed likely to impact cyclists and pedestrians. The rules also mandate assessments from 36 wind directions, with additional checks for exposed areas near the Thames, schools, parks, or hospitals.
The move follows the construction of several skyscrapers in the City, including the Leadenhall Building ('Cheesegrater') and 20 Fenchurch Street ('Walkie-Talkie'). Reports of fierce downdraughts emerged after the Walkie-Talkie's completion in 2014, with its shape also reflecting sunlight intensely enough to fry an egg. Thirteen more skyscrapers, ranging from 78 to 305 metres, are expected by 2026.
Cycling groups welcomed the changes. Simon Munk of the London Cycling Campaign noted the 'well-documented risk of concrete canyons' creating hazardous wind conditions. Roger Geffen of Cycling UK said he had experienced problems near the Heron Tower, adding: 'In the rush to put up tall buildings, no one has been thinking about what it means for making cycling and walking simpler and safer.'
City workers near the Walkie-Talkie confirmed the effects. Christina Hommel, 30, said: 'It's windy every day... you continue and the wind just comes at you.' James, 45, who works in the building, commented: 'I'm all for these skyscraper buildings... but there is a downside.'
Alastair Moss, chair of the City's planning and transportation committee, said the move was a first for the UK in prioritising cyclists and pedestrians. The City of London Corporation stated the guidelines were not in response to any specific incident but noted it had been 'closely monitoring high-rise buildings, including the Walkie-Talkie, to ensure wind conditions remain stable.'
