Comment: save our skyline

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One striking element of Boris Johnson's election manifesto was his commitment that, as Mayor, he would not grant permission for skyscrapers as freely as his predecessor used to do. He is committed to considering the views of local people before approving landmark tall buildings, and to opposing them outright in suburban areas. Our report today suggests that as a result of this approach, 14 skyscrapers planned for London may not now be built. Mr Johnson could veto 11 out of 21 proposed towers; three with planning permission could be reconsidered after public inquiries. As for other grandiose buildings, such as the so-called Walkie-Talkie Tower, approved by Mr Livingstone, they may not be built because of the downturn in the commercial property market.

This more sceptical approach is very much to be welcomed. This paper has no objections to welldesigned tall buildings whose impact on the London skyline has been carefully considered, particularly in relation to historic views. But some of the suburban developments which Ken Livingstone favoured, including the Penny Whistle in Ealing, would have been out of keeping with their surroundings. A more considered aesthetic for the London Plan is overdue. After all, the damage that could be caused by an ill-judged decision will long outlast the tenure of any mayor.