Southwark skyscraper application delayed - 26-03-2008 - 10:53

The application for a 51-storey building in Southwark has been delayed – meaning it will not be built in time for the 2012 Olympics.

Secretary of state Hazel Blears has called in the application, which proposes Beetham Tower to be built overlooking Blackfriars Bridge, reports the Southwark News.

In a letter to Southwark council, the government office for London wrote: "The secretary of state is of the opinion that this application is one that she ought to decide herself because she considers that the proposal may conflict with national and regional policies on important matters."

English Heritage has spoken out about the plans, saying that the building would impact on protected views of London from the nearby St James' Park.

A public inquiry will now be launched into the application meaning the project will be delayed sufficiently that there is no hope of it being completed for 2012.

The Beetham Tower has been designed by Ian Simpson.

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