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Wapping HQ must be greener, Boris tells Murdoch
30.06.09
Boris Johnson has forced Rupert Murdoch to rewrite his plans for an overhaul of his Wapping headquarters, saying the site needs to be more “eco friendly”.
The Mayor also told the media mogul, whose “Fortress Wapping” site houses four national newspapers, that he should install solar panels and plant more trees.
He said the proposed 271 car parking spaces at the News International building were “excessive” and instead suggested more pedestrian pathways and a cycle docking station.
The edicts, contained in a City Hall document, will be a blow to Mr Murdoch and put two of the capital's most influential figures at odds. They come despite a previous pledge by Mr Murdoch's son James, who is in charge of the family's News International, to make the group “carbon neutral”.
News International submitted the plans to Tower Hamlets council in April. The proposal for the 20-acre headquarters, which earned its nickname for its tight security, is to create a “campus-style office building”, with shops, restaurants, and a museum.
The company pointed out that its plans contain green measures, including a 20 per cent reduction in electricity use and more use of natural light. A spokeswoman added: “Our decision to remodel, as opposed to rebuild, reflects our goal of maximum sustainability.”
Among City Hall's criticisms is the lack of public transport links for the 4,300 employees who would work at the site.
Tower Hamlets has now deferred consideration of the plans while News International makes revisions.
