Southwark Council heritage policies upheld in New City Court appeal

3 October 2023

The government has dismissed appeals made by a developer against Southwark Council regarding proposals for a new office tower at London Bridge.

Cllr Helen Dennis, Cabinet Member for New Homes & Sustainable Development, said: “We are delighted that the Secretary of State has found in favour of the council regarding New City Court, and that our planning policies around conservation and heritage have been upheld. The site just off St Thomas Street sits within the Borough High Street conservation area that is home to numerous listed buildings. As such, the scheme required thorough and sensitive consideration to ensure it would not harm the character of its historic surroundings.

“We welcome development and growth that brings benefits to our local communities and local economy, but this cannot come at the expense of the borough’s rich heritage value.”

Great Portland Estates put forward two different designs following concerns about the height of the original 37-storey proposal. The developer took both schemes to appeal after lengthy negotiations to try and agree a scheme that complied with the council’s planning policies.

Both schemes were presented to the council’s planning committee who agreed the council’s case against each proposal due to the building’s height and massing, and its harmful impact on heritage. In the appeal ruling, Michael Gove agreed that neither design for the same plot should be allowed.

Page last updated: 03 October 2023