'Walkie Talkie' approved

16-07-2007

The government's decision to grant planning permission to a new London commercial development has been commended by a sector organisation.

Hazel Blears, secretary of state for communities and local government, has approved the construction of 20 Fenchurch Street - billed the "Walkie Talkie".

Ms Blears' predecessor Ruth Kelly halted the plans last year after Unesco's World Heritage Committee suggested that the Tower of London could be added to its list of endangered sites due to skyscraper construction in the capital.

However, the 36-storey structure - to incorporate offices, shops, cafes and a 'Sky Garden' - will now go ahead.

Commenting, the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment stated that the office design "would make a significant contribution to London's architecture".

Chief executive Richard Simmons added: "One of the great strengths of the City's architectural experience comes from the excitement of dramatic contrasts and changes in scale."

Mike Hussey, managing director of Land Securities' London portfolio, said that he anticipated strong interest from prospective occupiers.

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