The mayor's own planning advisors have advised him to reject a controversial £800m development for Bishopsgate Goodsyard, describing the proposals [pdf] as 'unacceptable'.
Officials say the scheme, which would include 1,350 new homes and 700,000 sq ft of office space, should be turned down because the "cumulative harm to heritage assets, the unacceptable daylight/sunlight impact, density, height, massing and layout of the scheme are considered to significantly outweigh the potential public benefits".
Opponents of the scheme were worried about the size of the numerous towers — including two of over 150m tall.
After the developers complained councils were taking too long to make a decision, Boris Johnson took the unusual move of 'calling in' responsibility for deciding the outcome of the project.
A spokesperson for developers Hammerson and Ballymore told the Financial Times: "We are disappointed that the Greater London Authority's report has recommended the scheme for refusal. The Goodsyard is one of central London's most important strategic sites which we believe will contribute to the long term growth and success of London."
Boris will announce his decision on the plans on 18 April.
