Planning authorities have approved DSDHA's proposed extension of the former De Beers building located in London's Farringdon area. This approval marks a significant development in the ongoing transformation of one of the capital's most historic commercial districts.
The decision comes amid a busy period for major architectural and development projects across the United Kingdom. Recent announcements include plans for a 50-story residential tower in Wales that is set to become the country's tallest building, demonstrating the scale of ambition in current urban development projects.
Meanwhile, the Chinese government has been asked to provide clearer justification for their new embassy plans, with officials requesting that authorities evaluate the project's merits when making their final decision. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has specifically asked Chinese representatives to explain certain redacted portions of their embassy development proposals.
Several other notable architectural projects are currently underway across England. Foster + Partners has successfully completed upgrade work on Manchester United's Carrington training complex, while the same firm is also working on a new London headquarters for the company behind an Oxford cancer research facility that is being funded by the world's second-richest person.
In the residential development sector, Assael Architects has received approval for a 352-unit co-living scheme in Brent Cross, reflecting the growing demand for alternative housing solutions in London. Additionally, new images have been released of Acme's ambitious £1 billion Liverpool Street station redevelopment plans as the City of London Corporation has published the official planning application.
The broader architectural community is also seeing new initiatives aimed at innovation and sustainability. Architect Sadie Morgan and developer Dicle Guntas have launched a collaborative initiative focused on activating underused urban spaces, part of a wider movement for structural change in how architecture addresses contemporary challenges.
