Plans to revamp BT’s London headquarters at 81 Newgate Street, EC1, have been given the green light by the City of London’s planning committee.
One planning committee member did raise concerns that the greening of the building would make it look like “Miss Havisham’s wedding cake”. However, the scheme was applauded for being a refurbishment rather than a demolition.
The building will be refurbished and extended to create an 810,306 sq ft, 13-storey building providing more than 729,000 sq ft of office space.
It will also house more than 47,000 sq ft of retail space at ground level, as well as a 6,114 sq ft public roof terrace and restaurant with capacity for 180 diners inside and 40 on the terrace. Additionally, there will be an 18,697 sq ft fitness centre that will include a 25m swimming pool.
Orion Capital Managers paid BT £209.5m for the building in July last year on behalf of Tejat V Lux Sàrl.
Pella Real Estate Partners was brought in to manage the redevelopment in August last year.
Alastair Moss, chair of the planning and transportation committee at the City of London Corporation, said: “This striking development offers significant enhancement to the gateway of Culture Mile, a vibrant cultural and creative area between Farringdon and Moorgate, and it enriches the King Edward Street view of the iconic St Paul’s Cathedral.
“Not only will the development improve aesthetics in the area, but the urban greening of this development offers many environmental benefits such as reducing pollution, absorbing sound and reducing flood risk.”
Britta Harper, director at Orion Capital Managers said: “Securing this planning consent is a major milestone for Tejat V Lux Sàrl and its partners and enhances the ongoing commitment to delivering truly sustainable developments in the City of London.
“The proposals will transform the existing building from an unwelcoming and isolated island site into an integral part of the local community, increasing permeability and allowing the public an opportunity to gain a new perspective on the iconic St Paul’s Cathedral from 81 Newgate Street’s stunning public roof terrace.”
Montagu Evans advised on planning and townscape for the application.
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