Fifty Fenchurch Street: Balancing Heritage and Modern Development
A major development is set to transform Fifty Fenchurch Street, with plans for a 36-storey office tower that will rise alongside carefully preserved heritage structures. The scheme will reshape the southern edge of the City of London’s eastern tower cluster, bordered by Fenchurch Street, Mincing Lane, Dunster Court, and Mark Lane.
The site has deep historical roots, having been the home of the Worshipful Company of Clothworkers since its foundation in 1528. Designed by Eric Parry Architects, the new tower will provide a striking modern counterpart to the area’s long-standing heritage. A central feature of the project is the integration of the Grade I-listed Tower of All Hallows Staining. This surviving medieval structure, which collapsed in the 1600s, will remain preserved even as part of the new basement for the livery company is constructed beneath it.
“These elements aim to create a space that is both commercially valuable and culturally significant, showcasing how new developments can coexist with historic landmarks..”
The Fifty Fenchurch Street development illustrates the challenges and opportunities of building in London’s historic core. While delivering modern office capacity for the City, it demonstrates a strong commitment to heritage preservation and public realm improvements. As London continues to evolve, this project highlights how innovative design and sensitive planning can bridge centuries of history in one development.
State-of-the-art
A defining challenge is constructing a new four-storey basement beneath the medieval tower of All Hallows Staining. The solution involves a raft foundation supported by plunge columns, enabling excavation while keeping the tower stable. At one stage, the structure will stand on temporary supports — “stilts” — while permanent works are completed. Detailed underpinning, ring beams, and hydraulic jacks have been designed to manage movement and protect the church tower’s integrity throughout the works.
