GLA officials call on Boris to reject Bishopsgate Goodsyard plan

The scheme, developed by a joint venture between Hammerson and Ballymore, would cause “unacceptable and significantly negative impacts” to the local area, a Greater London Authority report said on Friday.

“The density, height, massing and layout of the scheme are not appropriate for this site,” GLA officials said in the report.

Specifically, the development would harm a number of heritage sites, including the setting of the Tower of London, and impact the amount of sunlight near the site, located on the edge of the City of London, they said.

Although the planned development offers a number of “significant public benefits”, officials said these are outweighed by the damage the scheme would cause.

Mayor Boris Johnson will decide whether to accept or reject the proposals next Monday [18 April].

Should the mayor “be minded to approve the plans”, officials recommended he impose a number of conditions, such as requiring 25% affordable housing on the site, and 10% of the office floorspace to be available at a 20% discount from open market rents.

A spokesperson for the Joint Venture said: “We are disappointed that the GLA’s report has recommended the scheme for refusal. The Goodsyard is one of central London’s most important strategic sites which we believe will contribute to the long term growth and success of London.”