London ‘hanging gardens’ tower gets green light

The 50 Fenchurch Street project for The Clothworkers’ Company was the first to be approved by virtual committee.

The project includes a new office building, replacement Livery Hall, public roof and winter gardens as well as significant new public realm situated around a restored Grade I church tower.

Designed by architect Eric Parry, the 78,000 sq m building will give the impression of a hanging garden across the facade, pioneering extensive urban greening in the City.

Capital Real Estate Partners is acting as development manager for the Livery Company scheme.

Capital Real Estate said that irrespective of Covid-19, the City office development pipeline would be very constrained post 2020.

This coincides with an upcoming peak in major lease events between 2023-2027, particularly in the legal sector.  50 Fenchurch Street is set to benefit from this future supply/demand imbalance.

As yet the project still has no formal start date.

The innovative external design will significantly enhance the environmental performance of the new building’s façade.

The façade includes bespoke ceramic cladding at ground level, a seamless glazed podium level and a crafted glass detail on the upper levels.

Architect Eric Parry said: “The design journey of this urban proposition has been one of the most remarkable alignments between commerce, culture and the public realm that I have experienced”.

The proposed scheme will improve the two listed buildings. The Grade I listed Tower of All Hallows Staining will be set within a new street-level public realm.  The Grade II Lambe’s Chapel Crypt will become publicly accessible.