Council defers decision on Foster + Partners' Shoreditch towers

A controversial scheme in Shoreditch designed by Foster + Partners had its planning decision deferred by the council this week as concerns remain over the demolition of a popular and historic bar in the area.

Hackney borough council voted five votes to two to defer its decision until the conclusion of a Shoreditch conservation report examining the historic importance of the Light Bar, a public house built inside a Victorian-era electric station.

Developer Hammerson has argued that its scheme cannot progress unless the bar is demolished, but the bar's owners have launched a campaign to protect the property.

The Bishop's Place scheme would see office towers, public spaces and new homes built on a 1.3ha site to the north of Liverpool Street station.

Foster + Partners' proposals have been developed over three years with Hackney council and the local community. The council's planning officers recommended that it be approved.

Joanna Axon, project director for Hammerson, said: “We are disappointed with the decision to defer the scheme given how many years we have been in discussions with the council. We will now be carefully examining the councillors' decision before we decide on how best to move forward.”