73-storey skyscraper given go-ahead in London

City of London approves 73-storey skyscraper, 1 Undershaft, set to be second tallest building in western Europe.

A new skyscraper that will be 73-storey’s high and rival the Shard, has been given planning approval and will be built in London.

Known as 1 Undershaft, and nicknamed Trellis, the building will be constructed on the site of Aviva Tower, which will be demolished. Designed by architect Eric Parry of Singaporean developers Aroland Holdings, the office block will be situated next to 22 Bishopsgate, another skyscraper due to be completed by 2018.

The skyscraper will tower over 300 metres (1,000 ft), and include a free public viewing gallery and what is claimed to be London’s highest restaurant. It will overlook other landmarks such as the Cheesegrater (122 Leadenhall Street) and the Gherkin (30 St Mary Axe) in the City of London.

The developers have said that 1 Undershaft ill offer 22 acres of floorspace for 10,000 workers and comprise of a square column which will subtly taper towards its top floors. There will also be access to 1,600 bicycle parking spaces.

Mr Parry, who was chosen after he won a competition run by the City of London Corporation, said that the design will feature an ‘entrance lobby suspended in the air’. The core of the building will be situated on one side of the structure, rather than in the middle with the ground level designed to be completely open.

It is due for completion at some point in the 2020’s, as the current building’s tenants Aviva hold a lease until 2024.

Following the approval, the City of London Corporation said that the building was a sign that Britain’s decision to leave the European Union had done nothing to slow construction in the city.

Chris Hayward, the chairman of the committee, said: “This development shows the high levels of investor confidence in London’s status as a global city following our decision to leave the European Union.

“I believe this building will play an important part in increasing London’s attraction as the world’s leading financial centre.”

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