The City of London has given the go-ahead to plans for a new 38-storey development at 2 Finsbury Avenue in the Square Mile
The newly approved office-led development at 2 Finsbury Avenue, by British Land and GIC, aims to become an innovative, inclusive and sustainable place to work, visit and learn.
The scheme, which is designed by Danish firm 3XN, offers more than 83,000 sqm of office floorspace, more than 700sqm of retail space and more than 2,100 sqm of learning space.
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 at 2 Finsbury Avenue is targeting BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ through high sustainability standards including the adoption of Circular Economy and Whole Life Carbon Principles.
The project will widen pavements and create a new north to south pedestrian route connecting Finsbury Avenue Square to Sun Street.
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 thriving and vibrant destination’
Chair of the planning and transportation committee at the City of London Corporation, Alastair Moss, said: “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.
“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.
“This is the third tall building application to be approved by the planning and transportation committee this year which shows that the fundamental strengths of the City remain unrivalled.
“2 Finsbury Avenue is yet another bold example of solid commitment to the City of London by developers as the nation looks toward the steps to unlock national restrictions.”
Head of development at British Land, Nigel Webb, commented: “We’re delighted with the City of London Corporation’s decision to grant planning permission for 2 Finsbury Avenue.
“As businesses look beyond Covid-19, it is clear that high quality workspace in great locations will continue to play a crucial role in their success, by promoting and supporting innovation, collaboration, training and culture.
“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.”
