IMAGE: Boris approves Docklands tower as tall as Canary Wharf

London mayor Boris Johnson has given planning permission to the 63-storey Columbus Tower in London's Docklands.

The planning application by Commercial Estates Group had previously been thrown out by the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

The tower will be as tall as the neighbouring One Canada Square, the UK's tallest building, though the Heron Tower, the Pinnacle and Shard of Glass skyscrapers currently under construction will be higher still

Conditions of the approval include: a £4m contribution towards Crossrail; £1m towards affordable housing; and £2m towards community services such as local bus services, improvements to parks and new training initiatives for Tower Hamlets residents.

Johnson said: "I have now had the chance to consider the Columbus Tower application in great detail and, more importantly, had the opportunity to listen carefully, and in person, to the arguments for and against this proposal.

"I am satisfied that all the major concerns have been addressed and I believe the application will not only strengthen the success story of the Isle of Dogs, but will be hugely beneficial to the whole of London.

"As well as being suited to the Canary Wharf district with its distinctive tall buildings, the overall size of the development means that it will deliver a huge contribution to the cost of Crossrail, which is central to the continued success and prosperity of both Canary Wharf and the entire capital.

"Considerable sums will also be invested to bring lasting benefits to the local community and therefore I have no doubt that this development must be allowed to go ahead."