Fears Huge 56-Storey Skyscraper Could Disfigure Historic Church in London
Concerns rise over a proposed skyscraper’s impact on a medieval church in London, threatening its historic significance and community role
London, UK, St Ethelburga’s, Skyscraper, Brookfield, Historic Church
London: A former archbishop is sounding the alarm about a new 56-storey skyscraper planned right across from a medieval church. This building could really change the look of the area and not for the better.
The skyscraper, proposed by Brookfield, is set to rise at 99 Bishopsgate. They want to tear down part of an existing building to make way for one of the tallest structures in the Square Mile.
Brookfield claims this project will help boost London’s economy, but locals are worried about the impact on St Ethelburga’s, an 800-year-old church just 20 meters away.
This Grade-I listed church has survived a lot, including the Great Fire of 1666 and a major bombing in 1993. It was almost lost after that bombing, but thanks to community efforts, it was restored and now serves as a Centre for Reconciliation and Peace.
Now, it seems like this new skyscraper could threaten its future. Lord Rowan Williams, a former archbishop and supporter of the church, called the development “wholly undesirable,” saying it would disrupt the church’s important work.
Co-directors of the center, Clare Martin and Tarot Couzyn, are also worried. They say the construction could have “devastating consequences” for the church’s peaceful environment.
They emphasize that the church is meant to be a calm space in the bustling city, and the noise from construction could ruin that. They fear it might even lead to losing funding for their activities.
In a letter opposing the plans, they warned that if the skyscraper goes up, St Ethelburga’s might not survive, taking away a vital piece of the city’s history and culture.
The Bishopsgate area is already filled with tall buildings, like the famous ‘Gherkin’ and another Brookfield project at 100 Bishopsgate. The new plans also include a market hall and performance space next door.
Locals are voicing their concerns too. Elsie Roderiques, who loves the church’s quiet spaces, said the noise would make it impossible to hold events there.
Property advisors have pointed out that the new skyscraper could harm not just St Ethelburga’s but also other historic churches nearby. Even a surveyor for St Paul’s Cathedral mentioned it could block views of that iconic landmark.
Former Tory MP Sir Tony Baldry, who is also the parish clerk for St Ethelburga’s, is urging the council to reject the plans. He highlighted how crucial the church is for peace-building and interfaith dialogue.
In response, a spokesperson for the project said they’re committed to creating a landmark building that offers public and cultural benefits. They claim to be in talks with the church to address concerns.