Plans revealed for 33-storey City of London tower

Hong Kong-based developer Tenacity has unveiled updated proposals for its redevelopment of 70 Gracechurch Street in the City of London.

The firm, founded by Patrick Wong, altered its plans following a public consultation and now aims to create a new 33-storey tower adjacent to the 20 Fenchurch Street building (Walkie Talkie), which will provide around 55,700m² of office and retail space.

The new plans now allow for a double-height public amenity and viewing gallery on levels 29 and 30, while the façade and massing of the building has been refined to improve local views.

Tenacity said it has modified the podium space for the tower, reducing it to double-height, and has removed the urban foyer to create more terraces for office occupiers and social space, which the firm hopes will further improve the workplace environment.

Further greening has also been added via green roofs and in between the tower’s three separate elements. Additional tree planting in the public realm is also proposed.

The 155m-tall scheme, to be known as The Forum, could start on site in 2022.