18 November 2015

Axa IM gets approval for 62-storey London tower

Anne Kavanagh, Axa IM - Real AssetsAxa Investment Managers - Real Assets has received approval from the City of London's planning and transportation committee for its development at 22 Bishopsgate in partnership with property developer Lipton Rogers.

Construction of the 62-storey tower will use the foundations and basements of the previous, unfinished development on the site, helping minimise disruption and allowing for an accelerated construction timetable upon receipt of full planning permission, according to Axa IM.

The tower will be topped by the highest free-to-visit public space in London, which will have dedicated lifts and entrance. The building will incorporate a substantial range of tenant amenities including restaurants, leisure space, an auditorium, medical facilities and space for education and relaxation as the City's first "vertical village" (IAR, 16 June, Plans for vertical city on Axa Real Estate site).

Anne Kavanagh, global head of asset management & transactions at Axa IM - Real Assets, said: "The City of London's resolution to grant planning permission for 22 Bishopsgate marks a significant step forward in our plans for this exciting new development which will provide a high quality and environmentally friendly working environment for over 12,000 people in the heart of the City of London. We are long-term investors into the City and are of the firm belief that 22 Bishopsgate will be part of its ongoing success story as an international business location and global city."