Plans for Hertshten Properties’ 32-storey mixed-use office tower at 85 Gracechurch Street, EC3, have been approved by the City of London Corporation.
As part of the redevelopment, the existing nine-storey, 74,616 sq ft building, which was formerly owned by City & General, will be partially demolished and replaced to offer 376,737 sq ft of new offices.
The 1930s facade of the current site will be retained and the new building, which is around three times as high, will be built behind.
Upon completion, the site will also provide 6,243 sq ft of retail space, a 9,117 sq ft heritage garden and a 10,000 sq ft public hall, both of which will be open to the public.
The heritage garden, on the fifth floor, will be run by the Museum of London and will feature planted woodland and a multi-functional cultural space, with VR capabilities. It will contain a free public exhibition showcasing the historic significance of the site, which was once home to the ancient Roman forum and basilica.
As part of the exhibition, there will be space for a public display of Roman remains related to the location in situ in the basement.
There will also be a public hall (pictured below) which traces a historic walking route between Gracechurch Street and Lime Street Passage to facilitate large-scale events that will promote Leadenhall Market.
Shravan Joshi, chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Planning Applications Sub-Committee, said the scheme “sets a high bar for others to follow” and helps to support the City’s “vision of the Square Mile as a seven-day-a-week visitor destination”.
He added: “We worked closely with Historic England to ensure that preserving and showcasing the archaeology of the location – in situ in the event of any significant remains found – was at the heart of these plans.
“This development will create new jobs, boost the economy of the Square Mile and drive significantly increased footfall to Leadenhall Market, helping to boost the market’s appeal as a major visitor destination in its own right.”
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