Richard Rogers, who holds the post of architectural advisor to the mayor of the British capital, Ken Livingston, said that the "spire-shaped, pointed silhouette" of the new building "will diversify the cityscape of London."
The project has already been opposed by public organizations involved in the protection of monuments, as the skyscraper will "distort" one of the most famous views of the dome of St. Paul's - along Fleet Street.
Similar charges have been leveled against Helmut Jan's skyscraper project. As a result, another architect is now designing this tower.
Rogers' bureau representatives believe their construction will enrich the view of the cathedral, and its shape will set off, rather than suppress, the rounded outline of Wren's dome.
Lord Rogers announced that a new public space will be created at the foot of the building, partially enclosed by glass walls, 27 meters high. It "will not be like anything in London," there will be art exhibitions, concerts and film screenings."
The future tower will stand opposite the Lloyd's Insurance Society building, which Rogers designed in 1978. The new building will use the same technique as at Lloyds - the elevator shafts will be placed on the outer walls. Glazed elevators will provide views of all of north London.
