Boris overrules council to approve Columbus Tower

8 October, 2009

The Columbus Tower development in the Isle of Dogs, which includes office and hotel space with a mix of other uses, was turned down by Tower Hamlets Council in August.

The local authority claimed it would block daylight to nearby homes, and would have a detrimental effect on nearby listed buildings and a conservation area.

But at the end of August the mayor decided to exercise his new planning powers and decided to “take over” the planning application.

And Johnson has now granted permission, saying the tower will help the regeneration of the Isle of Dogs.

He said: “I am satisfied that all the major concerns have been addressed.

"As well as being suited to the Canary Wharf district with its distinctive tall buildings, the overall size of the development means that it will deliver a huge contribution to the cost of Crossrail, which is central to the continued success and prosperity of both Canary Wharf and the entire capital.”

Under conditions attached to the application, the developer Commercial Estates will give £4 million to Crossrail, over £1 million towards affordable housing, and another £2 million to the local community.

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