The Tate Modern could be overshadowed by a 32-storey glass apartment block if planning permission on a proposed site next to the gallery is granted.
Developer London Town applied to Southwark council for outline planning permission for the £55m building in Hopton Street just over two weeks ago.

There have already been reports of opposition from residents. The main objections are likely to centre on the tower's height – a massive 107 m – and its prominent location on the Thames.

Paul Calvocoressi, historic buildings inspector and historic areas adviser for English Heritage in London, said: "We have not yet decided on our position on this. It may have an impact on river views and on one or two listed buildings on Hopton Street."

But Calvocoressi said the tower was unlikely to affect the view of Southwark cathedral or views to or from St Paul's, which would be other key considerations in an EH review.

The project team includes architects Kevin Dash Associates and Gumuchdijn Associates, structural engineer Expedition Engineering, Arup for services, Gordon Ingram Associates as "daylight consultant" and Montagu Evans as planning consultant.