The City of London Corporation has granted planning permission for Network Rail's contentious £1.2 billion redevelopment of Liverpool Street station, with councillors hailing it as a "modern temple of transport" that will enhance the Square Mile's global competitiveness.
Vote and Vision for the Future
In a decisive move, 19 members of the Corporation's planning committee voted in favour of the scheme, while three opposed it. Chris Hayward, policy chair of the Corporation, emphasised that this approval marks a "major step forward" for London's financial district.
He stated, "As competition among global cities intensifies, we must showcase our openness to new investment that improves our urban environment. Liverpool Street station will now continue to serve as a key hub in this endeavour."
Key Features of the Redevelopment
The ambitious plans include introducing step-free access at every station platform, encompassing the London Underground, and expanding the concourse to significantly alleviate passenger congestion. These improvements are designed to accommodate the projected surge in usage, with passenger numbers expected to climb to 158 million by 2041, up from just under 100 million entries and exits last year.
To finance the £1.2bn project, a controversial 19-storey block will be constructed over the station concourse. Network Rail argues that this over-station development is the only viable method to fund the scheme, a point echoed by committee members who noted that major projects often lack full financial balance at this stage.
Heritage Concerns and Objections
Heritage groups have raised alarms, warning that the proposals could cause substantial harm to historical assets, including the adjacent Andaz Hotel and the fabric of Liverpool Street itself. Sir Simon Jenkins, former editor of the Times and the Evening Standard, voiced strong opposition, urging the committee to defer the decision.
He remarked, "Everything about it looks odd... I beg you to reconsider." Objectors also highlighted a funding shortfall of £200 million, which excludes potential compensation costs for rail disruption during construction.
Alternative Proposals and Funding Challenges
Architect John McAslan, whose practice submitted an unofficial alternative design, criticised Network Rail's plans as "unviable and undeliverable." He asserted that his proposals demonstrated the station could be upgraded without damaging its heritage.
Gaby Robertshaw, a councillor for Cripplegate, pointed out that unlike other station redevelopments at King's Cross and London Bridge, this project lacks central government funding. She acknowledged the heritage objections but stressed the necessity of the scheme.
"I cannot ignore the concerns from the heritage lobby," she said. "However, Liverpool Street station has no brownfield site or government handout. This scheme offers us the chance to create a world-class station for our workers, residents, and businesses."
Looking Ahead
Tom Sleigh, chair of the planning committee, underscored the importance of backing investment to maintain London's competitive edge, stating, "Stasis kills cities." He praised the design, saying, "The soaring brick arches and bold architecture will cement Liverpool Street's status as a modern temple to transport."
As the project moves forward, it aims to transform one of Britain's busiest railway stations into a more accessible and efficient hub, despite ongoing debates over its impact on heritage and financial feasibility.
