London to get glazed "Cheesegrater" by 2012

18:08:20 15th August 2008

London is set to have another iconic office building in the City with the monolithic Leadenhall Building.

The 47-storey building will provide over half a million (612,000) square feet of quality office space and will reach an imposing 726 ft.

But perhaps the most striking thing about the Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners design is the glazed exterior.

Shaped like a giant wedge, the "Cheesegrater" will be colourfully illuminated at night and will feature a huge glazed canopy over its main entrance.

Work has begun to clear the current building from the site and a 2011 opening is yet a possibility, despite reports that plans are to be put on hold until 2012 due to a drop in rental prices.

British Land chief Executive Stephen Hester told the Guardian: "By waiting until 2011 to start looking for tenants, a year before we finish the project, we will be further into the recovery and should get higher rates."

The building will feature unprecedented public space at its base, with a range of retail outlets and attractive landscaping.