The City of London Corporation has granted planning permission for two major high-rise schemes at opposite ends of the City’s historic skyscraper cluster, reinforcing the Square Mile’s reputation as a global business and cultural hub.
The approved projects, a 45-storey tower at 63 St Mary’s Axe and a 32-storey development at 85 Gracechurch Street, will jointly deliver over 110,000 square metres of Grade A, sustainable office space, supporting more than 6,500 jobs. The developments mark a significant milestone in the City’s Destination City growth strategy, designed to attract international business and boost weekday and weekend footfall through culture, heritage, and hospitality.
Both towers have been designed with respect for London’s historic skyline, maintaining protected views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London. In a rare integration of new and old, the projects will also bring previously hidden archaeological finds into public view—creating two free-to-visit heritage destinations open seven days a week.
The 45-storey mixed-use scheme at 63 St Mary’s Axe will provide over 85,000 sqm of office floorspace, contributing 4.2% of the City’s projected space requirement to meet economic and employment growth targets. The tower is expected to create more than 4,500 jobs, further bolstering the City’s standing as a leading global centre for financial and professional services.
At street level, the scheme introduces flexible commercial spaces, cultural offerings, and the new ‘Camomile’ Park, featuring elevated walkways, retail units, and green public spaces. A standout element of the development is the unveiling of a surviving section of the London Wall, alongside 1,500 sqm of public open space, two new pedestrian routes, and extensive urban greening, including the planting of 76 new trees.
The updated 32-storey scheme at 85 Gracechurch Street builds on plans first approved in early 2023. Now redesigned to incorporate the discovery of a first-century Roman Forum-Basilica, the development will include 34,000 sqm of Grade A office space, supporting around 2,200 jobs.
The Roman Forum-Basilica, the administrative and commercial heart of Roman London, will be preserved and celebrated through a world-class, immersive exhibition free to the public. This focus on cultural value aligns with the City’s long-term vision of broadening access to its rich history.
The broader redevelopment will rejuvenate nearby Leadenhall Market, introducing a ground-floor public hall with food, retail, and event space. A historic pedestrian route linking Gracechurch Street to Lime Street Passage will be reopened, and visitors will also have access to a fifth-floor public terrace, offering new views of the evolving City skyline.
The twin approvals reflect the City of London’s ambition to carefully grow its tall building cluster while embedding public value through job creation, heritage access, green spaces and cultural destinations.
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