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Chris Thomson
Wed 21 Oct 26

Closed by 1970s Bomb Attack, London’s BT Tower Poised for Fresh Era

Plans to convert London’s BT Tower to a hotel that would open the lofty landmark to the public for the first time since a bombing forced its closure in 1971 have received the blessing of a national heritage group.

During public consultation for the project, which closed last week, Historic England regional director Tom Foxall supported MCR Hotels’ “thoughtful approach to reusing and revitalising the BT Tower”.

“The emerging scheme will reinforce the significance of the [heritage]-listed tower’s extraordinary architecture, ensuring its iconic presence remains on the London skyline, while also reconfiguring its internal spaces in ways that will bring both public enjoyment and economic growth,” he said.

Community Engagement Development Applications Heritage Protection Hotels Placemaking United Kingdom

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Chris Thomson

Originally from Queensland, Chris spent years as a policy and program manager in Canberra with the federal government and then with the Housing Industry Association. After moving to Western Australia, he worked as a news reporter and editor, university lecturer, author and media advisor. Now in South Australia, Chris works full-time with The Urban Developer and is a part-time academic. He has a PhD in journalism and a master’s degree in urban and regional planning.

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