London's iconic BT Tower is set to undergo a major transformation into a hotel, following its £275 million sale to US hotel operator MCR. The 620-foot landmark, located near Tottenham Court Road in Fitzrovia, will be stripped out and converted into a hotel, marking the first time the public will have regular access in almost 50 years.
History of the BT Tower
Originally built for telecommunications in 1964, the BT Tower was the tallest structure in London until the NatWest Tower surpassed it in 1980. It first opened to the public in 1966, featuring a rotating restaurant on the 34th floor with panoramic views of the capital. However, the restaurant was closed in 1971 after a bomb explosion in the men's toilets, and the entire tower was shut down in 1981. It briefly reopened in 2015 for two weeks to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
Why Was the BT Tower Closed?
The Top of the Tower restaurant was closed after a bomb explosion in 1971. Although it reopened on an invite-only basis shortly after, the tower was fully closed in 1981. Anne Archer, an archivist at the tower, explained that its design required a considerable height and unobstructed surroundings to avoid interrupting communication waves, which also provided stunning panoramic views.
Transformation Plans
MCR released their proposals as part of a public consultation running until May 26. Key features include:
- The Stick: A hotel on levels seven to 23, an area previously off-limits to the public.
- Top Floor: Potential event space and observation deck to tell the tower's story, though plans are less concrete for the former restaurant location.
- Swimming Pool: On the top floor of The Podium at the tower's base.
- Ground Floor: Shops and cafes as part of a new public square along Howland Street.
Anne Archer noted that the building's history will be preserved, and a new restaurant could allow more people to experience the views.
Timeline
Construction is expected to start in late 2029, after BT hands over the site, with completion hoped for in 2033. BT stated they no longer need the tower, as many features like microwave aerials were removed over a decade ago. Work has already begun to remove ageing wires and equipment.
Preserving Heritage
Brent Mathews, Property Director at BT Group, said: 'The BT Tower sits at the heart of London and we've been immensely proud to be the owners of this important landmark since 1984. It's played a vital role in carrying the nation's calls, messages and TV signals, but increasingly we're delivering content and communication via other means.'
MCR commented: 'MCR intends to bring one of Britain's most iconic buildings into public use through a hotel-led, mixed-use development that celebrates the BT Tower's rich heritage, complements Fitzrovia's historic character, and delivers meaningful placemaking and employment opportunities for the local community.'
