A FIFTY-SIX storey skyscraper has been approved by the City of London Corporation.

The Planning and Transportation Committee gave the green light to the new development in Leadenhall Street earlier this month.

Lai Sun Development Company’s new 263 metre tall building, designed by architects SOM, will be the third tallest in the City of London when finished.

Already known as the Cheesegrater 2 because of a profile which complements the nearby Leadenhall Building, the tower will provide over 102,000 square metres (1,097,919 sq ft) of office space.

Chris Hayward, chair of the planning committee, commented:

“I’m delighted that we have approved latest addition to the City’s growing office district.

“As a leading business district accommodating 483,000 workers every day, it is vital to continue to deliver office space for the significant growth expected with the arrival of the Elizabeth line later this year.

“Leading to a church dating back to the 12^th century, this development demonstrates the City’s distinctive ability to house the old and new side by side, while becoming more accessible to creative workers and members of the public.

“More than ever we are seeing businesses make location decisions based on the quality of built environment and public realm that they can offer their employees.

“Today’s committee decision will boost confidence and international talent in the City of London.”

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