The redevelopment of Westferry Printworks, E14, by media tycoon Richard Desmond’s property subsidiary has been approved by the GLA.
The £500m scheme proposed by Northern & Shell Investments No 2 was called in by mayor of London mayor Boris Johnson in February following a request from the developer.
Overseeing the planning hearing at City Hall today, deputy mayor for policy and planning Sir Edward Lister approved the scheme.
The development comprises 722 homes, a secondary school for 1,200 children and four public spaces, including a 64,583 sq ft park.
Key issues considered were the proportion of affordable homes and the impact of wind conditions on the Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre.
Tower Hamlets Council wanted a minimum affordable housing provision of 35%.
However, Northern & Shell argued 20% was the maximum proportion needed to make the scheme viable. The original proposal provided for 11% affordable housing.
The sailing centre and two local councillors, speaking at City Hall, claimed the development would make wind conditions unsuitable for junior sailors.
Northern & Shell has agreed to pay the sailing centre £546,000 towards equipment costs to help mitigate changes to wind conditions.
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