The City of London Corporation has approved plans for the modernisation of the iconic No. 1 Poultry in the City of London.
A central element of the plans for the Grade II* listed building is the reinstatement of free public access to the Apex Garden roof terrace.
Developed in consultation with the City of London and Historic England, the terrace will feature durable materials, enhanced biodiversity and layered landscaping that protects key views while improving comfort and safety.
The modernisation scheme is targeting an 80% reduction in the building’s operational use intensity in addition to EPC A and BREEAM Outstanding ratings.
Ben Cross, who is co-leading on the development project on behalf of IGIS Asset Management, said: “From the outset, our focus at No. 1 Poultry has been clear: to respect the building’s significance while carefully preparing it for the next chapter of its life. This result follows extensive consultation with our neighbours, the custodians of its architectural legacy and policy makers.
“We are grateful to the City and Historic England for recognising our commitment to honouring Stirling and Wilford’s intent, while significantly reducing energy use and creating a more inclusive, future-ready workplace. It is a powerful example of London at its best – protecting what matters, while adapting with purpose for a more sustainable future.”
Basil Demeroutis, who is co-leading on the development, added: “Every building will need to decarbonise over the coming decades, and historic buildings are often seen as the hardest challenge. Our view is the opposite: when you treat them as innovation platforms, they can lead the transition. If a Grade II Stirling building at Bank can decarbonise, anything can.
“No. 1 Poultry is becoming a lighthouse project that shows even the most complex buildings can be updated for a radically different, low-carbon urban landscape. By bringing together new technologies and research alongside investment discipline, we’re pushing the building as far as we can into the future of real estate – ensuring it continues to serve the City for decades to come and delivers financial outperformance for our investors.”
Tom Foxall, regional director at Historic England, said: “We are pleased these forward-thinking plans to revitalise No.1 Poultry have been given the green light. This celebrated example of postmodern architecture in the heart of the City will soon lead the way for sustainability and accessibility while also respecting its architectural and historic significance. We’re pleased to have contributed to the thorough, collaborative consultation process which helped shape a sustainable long-term future for this Grade II* listed building.”
