English Heritage has defended its recommendation of the site

English Heritage has mounted a defence of its recommendation for Broadgate Square in London to be listed.

The square is earmarked for a £340m office development by British Land but if culture secretary Jeremy Hunt sides with English Heritage and decides to list much of Broadgate, the 700,000ft2 “groundscraper” scheme could be derailed.

High profile architects and City figures have squared off against English Heritage, claiming the buildings are not worth listing and restrictions would jeopardise up to 12,000 jobs.

English Heritage told Building: “Just because the buildings are young doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be given due regard.”

English Heritage recommended a grade II* listing last Friday, which would impose significant restrictions on British Land.

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