Initial go-ahead for the Cucumber tower - Paddington Basin scheme clears first planning hurdle

Published: 18 February 2011
by JOSH LOEB

PLANS for the tallest tower in Westminster – a 140-metre structure in Paddington Basin already nicknamed the Cucumber – took a step forward this week when City Hall gave the draft scheme the thumbs up.

Billionaire property developers the Reuben Brothers and their millionaire business partner, Bruce Jarvis, are seeking permission to build the skyscraper – which is officially known as 1 Merchant Square and would contain hundreds of flats, a bar and a 90-room hotel. 

On Wednesday the council’s planning and city development committee gave the 

go-ahead to the initial design and land use proposals. More detailed plans will be considered later this year.

Initial agreement was also given to three other buildings around the site: a 17-storey office building, including shopping space; a 

21-storey building containing 201 residential flats, retail and community uses; and a 15-storey building containing 119 residential properties, retail and medical faculties. 

Committee chairman Alastair Moss said: “We have given our approval to certain key aspects of these detailed plans including the height and design of the buildings and the public realm between them. The scheme has the potential to transform this part of Westminster, from what has previously been an industrial area into an exciting hub of residential, retail and leisure facilities. The architectural designs are impressive. They could deliver an iconic addition to London’s skyline and serve as a focal point for Paddington and the surrounding area.”