CABE has given a guarded welcome to architect Ian Simpson’s designs for a huge 69-storey residential tower in Southwark, south London.

The design watchdog concluded that the scheme, on the south side of Blackfriars Bridge, would be a “bold addition” to the London skyline and said it was happy with its location.

However, CABE expressed concern at the cladding of the scheme.

It said: “While we were impressed by the drawings and model of the tower presented, we are concerned that the promise of the proposals may not be realised in built form; we note, for example, that the glass is likely to look darker and more solid than either the transparent model or visualisations imply.

“In this case, we believe the success of the project will be dependent on achieving a seamless curved glass outer skin. Other extensively glazed buildings in London have failed to live up to their promise.”