Boris Johnson pledges to protect London views from tall buildings

Boris Johnson has attacked tall buildings blocking the views of London’s historical sites.

The mayoral candidate has attacked projects such as the Doon Street tower, which obstructs the view from the bridge in St James’s Park.

The scheme by Coin Street Community Builders was forced to scale back last summer after residents objected to its height. In August it was given the go-ahead by Lambeth Council after its height was reduced from 173m to 144m.

Johnson revealed that he would reinstate the Regional Planning Guidance 3A, which protects a “viewing corridor” onto St Paul’s Cathedral and the Palace of Westminster.

Johnson said in his housing manifesto it was “hugely embarrassing” that UNESCO considered the Tower of London and the Palace of Westminster as potential candidates for the endangered list of World Heritage sites.

He wrote: “London’s skyline is precious. Tall buildings must be part of London’s development, but not at the expense of existing landmarks. Tourists flock to London because of its landmarks, and 91% of people want views protected around St Paul’s and the Palace of Westminster.”