Important public inquiry into the £1 billion development for P&O on Londons South Bank, which features two office blocks and a residential skyscraper (22, 27 and 39 storeys respectively). English Heritage claim that the proposals, known as the Three Sisters scheme, could ruin the setting of the Palace of Westminster as well as harming views of some of Londons most architecturally and historically significant buildings. The scheme, designed to house more than 100,000m² of office space and nearly 300 apartments, was approved by both Lambeth Council and London Mayor Boris Johnson last year. The plans were called in by Communities secretary Hazel Blears in October claiming the proposals could breach national policy on tall buildings and impinge on strategic views.
Planning permission refused.
Neil King QC appeared on behalf of English Heritage the major objectors.
