The City of London Corporation has approved a new 38-storey office tower development at 2 Finsbury Avenue, in the Square Mile in 2021.
The development is the third tall building to receive planning permission in the Square Mile in 2021.
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The development at 2 Finsbury Avenue, by British Land and GIC, offers more than 83,000 sqm of office floorspace, more than 700 sqm of retail space and more than 2,100 sqm of learning space.
The scheme, which is designed by Danish firm 3XN, incorporates new ways of working with flexible and adaptable workspace suitable for a range of occupiers – from incubators and start-ups to medium sized business. An innovative ‘Open Learning Hub’ will be provided as a way for local communities to access the City’s knowledge and expertise through formal learning programmes, informal networks and talks from institutional providers.
The scheme is targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ through high sustainability standards including the adoption of Circular Economy and Whole Life Carbon Principles. The design has been assessed by the City’s new, cutting edge Thermal Comfort Index.
The scheme will widen pavements and create a new north to south pedestrian route connecting Finsbury Avenue Square to Sun Street, adding new public realm with vibrant retail frontages.
The development exceeds policy standards on both long and short stay cycle parking spaces, providing a combined total of more than 1,500 new cycle spaces. A prominent cycle entrance and integrated cycle workshop promotes healthy modes of transport, in line with the City Corporation’s Transport Strategy.
“The high-quality design for 2 Finsbury Avenue is yet another step in the radical transformation of Broadgate as a thriving and vibrant destination in the City. It will re-enliven the Liverpool Street area through better pedestrian connectivity, improved urban greening and the enhancement and activation of the public realm,” said Alastair Moss, Chair of the Planning and Transportation Committee at the City of London Corporation.
“The developers have ensured sustainability remains at the core of the scheme and have embraced emerging trends for the post-pandemic world, including flexible and adaptable office space to address new ways of working,” he added.
“We’re delighted with the City of London Corporation’s decision to grant planning permission for 2 Finsbury Avenue,” said Nigel Webb, Head of Development at British Land.
“2 Finsbury Avenue is well placed to meet the current and future needs of occupiers and visitors. Designed by award winning architects 3XN, the building incorporates ambitious sustainability initiatives, seeks to enhance health and wellbeing through access to green spaces and outdoor terraces, and benefits from being part of the Broadgate campus with its excellent connectivity, green open spaces and exciting range of amenities,” added Webb.
