The City of London is demonstrating how tall buildings, heritage protection and sustainability can work together, according to Tom Sleigh, who discusses the role of planning policy in shaping the Square Mile’s future.
Balancing the protection of historic buildings with the need for new development is a key challenge for the City of London, where centuries of architectural heritage sit alongside ambitions for continued growth.
Speaking to Tall Buildings Media at the Tall Buildings London Summit 2026, Tom Sleigh from the City of London discussed how the Square Mile is approaching this balance and why tall buildings remain an important part of its future.
With a history spanning more than 2,000 years, the City is home to significant historic landmarks, listed buildings and places of architectural importance. However, Sleigh explained that the City also has a strong commitment to growth, with additional height often necessary to deliver the commercial floorspace and employment opportunities required in such a dense urban environment.
He believes heritage and development should not be viewed as competing priorities, highlighting 85 Gracechurch Street as an example of how the two can work together.
Approved by the City, the development incorporates the remains of the Roman Forum, which will be made accessible to the public once the building is completed, allowing an important piece of London’s history to be experienced alongside new development.
Sleigh also outlined the direction of the City Plan 2040, which is moving towards a retrofit-first approach. Rather than assuming buildings can be demolished and replaced, developers are increasingly expected to demonstrate why demolition is necessary.
He revealed that around half of planning applications in the City are now for retrofit projects, while the Square Mile accounts for half of all retrofit activity in London.
Material reuse is another important part of the City’s sustainability strategy, with schemes encouraging materials from buildings being demolished to be recovered and reused in new developments.
Sleigh also highlighted the role tall buildings can play in addressing urban heat, explaining how shading and wind effects can help improve pedestrian comfort and contribute to the wider sustainability of the built environment.
Watch the full interview with Tom Sleigh here.
