FILE PHOTO: The City of London financial district is seen with office skyscrapers commonly known as 'Cheesegrater', 'Gherkin' and 'Walkie Talkie' seen in London, Britain, January 25, 2018. REUTERS/Toby Melville
LONDON (Reuters) – Londons mayor has blocked plans to build a glass viewing platform 1,000 feet (300 m) above Britains capital on a slender tower shaped like a tulip, saying it would be of limited public benefit and damage the skyline.
The building, designed by British architect Norman Fosters company, would have been the second tallest in western Europe, beaten only by the nearby “Shard”, but its design was deemed not good enough.
“The mayor has a number of serious concerns with this application and, having studied it in detail, has refused permission for a scheme that he believes would result in very limited public benefit,” Sadiq Khans spokesman said.
“In particular, he believes that the design is of insufficient quality for such a prominent location, and that the tower would result in harm to Londons skyline and impact views of the nearby Tower of London world heritage site.”
The Tulip Project Team developer said it was disappointed by Khans decision because the building would generate economic benefits.
The group declined to comment on whether it would submit revised plans for the site, saying it would take time to consider its next steps.
Planning authorities in the City of Londons finance district in April recommended the building – which got its nickname because the design shows a thin stalk topped by a glass bulb – should be granted planning permission.
To be financed by the Brazilian billionaire Jacob Safra, the building would have comprised a glass viewing platform, rotating pods on the outside and an education Read More – Source
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