Plans for ‘Cheesegrater 2’ move a step closer as 56-storey skyscraper gets approved

London’s skyline could soon be welcoming another skyscraper to its skyline after the City of London’s planning committee opened the door for a new 263m high building – dubbed as Cheesegrater 2.

The Hong Kong based Lai Sun Development is behind the development which is planned for 100 Leadenhall Street in the capital’s financial district, with construction involving the demolition of buildings at 100, 106 and 107 Leadenhall Street.

The City of London Corporation says that it will provide over 102,000 sqm of office accommodation, cycle parking facilities, ground-floor retail space and two podium terraces. Furthermore, the construction could mean it would be one of seven tall buildings in the east of the City to feature a high-level free public viewing gallery by 2026. 

The latest addition to the city’s skyline is being called Cheesegrater 2 due its vicinity and similarity to another skyscraper at 122 Leadenhall Street. It is set to host and cater for as many as 6,000 workers and would become London’s third tallest tower.

Objections to the plans were forthcoming from St Paul’s Cathedral with representatives saying it would have a “harmful impact” on views of the cathedral and “chip away” at London’s heritage views in general. While, the Tower of London claimed the development would diminish the “visual dominance” of the castle.

However, Chris Hayward, chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Planning and Transportation Committee, said the decision would “boost confidence” in the City of London”.

"I’m delighted that we have approved latest addition to the City’s growing office district,” he added. “Leading to a church dating back to the 12th 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."