Square Mile set for new archaeological centre at 30 Minories
The City of London Corporation has greenlighted an innovative office project at the 30 Minories location in the city’s east. This development will enhance the area with 14,000 square meters of top-notch, eco-friendly office space. Additionally, it will introduce a new cultural center aimed at benefiting both local residents and tourists, promoting community engagement.
PLP Architects have designed this project to replace an outdated postwar building with a modern, appealing office structure. This new building will include features like landscaped terraces and urban greening, along with high-quality, Grade A office spaces that are highly sought after in the Square Mile area. This design is expected to boost the appeal of the City’s eastern edge for premier office locations.
The 30 Minories site also includes a Victorian-era warehouse, known as ‘Writers’ House,’ which will be preserved and converted into a standalone community center. This center will house an archaeological and cultural center on the ground floor, offering new retail spaces and affordable workspaces above.
The site is also significant for containing remnants of the mysterious Abbey of St Clare, a medieval religious institution, expected to be revealed during construction. The area is also part of the eastern Roman cemetery, likely holding significant archaeological value. Selected artefacts will be showcased in a new, freely accessible public exhibition open daily.
Moreover, the developers have committed to improving the local surroundings by converting the Sheppy Place car park into a new, verdant public plaza.
Shravan Joshi, the Chairman of the City of London Corporation’s Planning and Transportation Committee, remarked:
“30 Minories is a prime example of our new wave of comprehensive office developments. These are sustainably crafted, integrating green aspects and deeply rooted in the City’s history and culture, while also enhancing the area for residents and visitors. Through the City Corporation’s Destination City initiative, and with projects like 30 Minories, we aim to transform the Square Mile into a top-tier recreational destination for a diverse range of people including local workers, residents, visitors, and investors.”