Refurbishment plans for Alban Gate, 125 London Wall

“Sensitive” refurbishment proposed

As most residents are now probably aware, a proposed “sensitive refurbishment” is being planned for this building.

The refurbishment is planned, in the developers’ own words, to “address the building’s shortcomings, namely the quality of public space at ground floor and podium levels along with the lack of amenity space for the building’s users & tenants…….Proposals include enhancing the public realm on ground and podium levels with re-positioned retail units, a contemporary office lobby, landscaping, lighting, and high-quality finishes……also looking to introduce planting on existing terraces, and provide new vegetated balconies across the building which will assist with encouraging biodiversity and climate resilience”.

In terms of timing, the expectation is that a planning application will be submitted in the autumn and that work on the project will commence in the summer of 2023 and be completed by spring 2024.

Public consultation underway

Prior to submitting an application to the City of London Corporation however the developers are “eager to understand the views of the local community”.

A public consultation is therefore currently underway during which the local community is being asked to view the proposals and leave their feedback online by visiting  www.albangate.co.uk. The survey will be available until 5th October but the website will remain live so people can continue to view the proposals.

Additionally, in-person consultation event is to be held at the old Pizza Express unit on the podium at 125 London Wall from 15.00 – 19.00 on Wednesday 28th September.

More clarification needed

Given the proximity of this building to the Barbican Estate and the need to clarify what is actually meant by the many jargon-laden words describing the plans, residents are urged to visit the website and, if possible, attend the in-person event and make their views known.