London authorities have approved plans to build a 305m tower entitled 'The Tulip' in the city's centre.
The building is expected to be western Europe's second tallest tower when it is complete, beaten only by the nearby Shard, which is just one metre taller.
The Tulip earned its nickname due to its planned thin stalk topped by a glass bulb, which has drawn mixed reactions.
"It looks awful and I don't agree with the location... hopefully the mayor will halt it!" one comment read on the Secret London Facebook group.
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"It's purely a money making building with little less to offer than a viewing platform."
London city officials have praised the design of the building, saying SOURCE that it has "the potential to become an architectural icon".
The Tulip will join the city's other humourously nicknamed buildings like the 'Cheesegrater', 'Gherkin' and 'Walkie Talkie'.
London's tallest buildings:
- The Shard, 306m (310m including the tip)
- One Canada Square, 236m
- 111 Bishopgate, 230m
- 122 Leadenhall Street (The Cheesegrater), 225m
- Newfoundland Quay, 220m
To put these heights into perspective, the height of Auckland's Sky Tower is 328m.
Planning authorities in the City of London's finance district recommended the building should be granted planning permission at a meeting on Tuesday (local time).
Financed by the Brazilian billionaire Jacob Safra, the building comprises a glass viewing platform, rotating pods on the outside and an education centre.
Such construction projects in London often face fierce opposition from residents and groups such as the Skyline Campaign. That's supported by architects, historians, engineers and others who feel the city's character and heritage is under threat from skyscrapers.
Construction on The Tulip is likely to begin next year and finish in 2025.
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Reuters/Newshub.
