St George Wharf Tower

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IN the past fortnight, developers have withdrawn designs for two mega towers in Clapham Junction.

The twin towers, dwarfing buildings for miles around, were set to be vetoed by council planners anyway. But the withdrawal came just a week after Boris Johnson blocked plans to demolish Queens Market in Upton Park and build a 33-storey tower block. The Mayor said the high rise was “not suited to the urban realm of Newham”.

In such confined London sites, developers are desperate to build skywards. So what applications have been approved? Here we look at the residential towers that could yet turn up on your doorstep.

20 BLACKFRIARS

Blackfriars

Height: Two towers – 42 and 23 storeys Due: TBA

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears had her reservations but developers satisfied English Heritage over the towers’ visual impact.

DOON STREET

South Bank

Height: 43 storeys Due: 2015

It may have “appalled” English Heritage but concerns the tower would mar the South Bank skyline were dismissed. On the plus side, it will include a public swimming pool.

RAM BREWERY

Wandsworth

Height: Two towers – 42 and 32 storeys

Wandsworth Council gave this the nod and Boris Johnson agreed but Hazel Blears has “called in” the plans. It is thought she is concerned about the site’s incorporation of listed buildings.

ST GEORGE WHARF TOWER

Vauxhall (far right building)

Height: 50 storeys Due: TBA

Set to be Britain’s tallest residential tower, this development has been at the centre of a power struggle between the Mayor and Lambeth Council. Despite the block’s large size, it has little affordable housing. A nine-month inquiry approved the Mayor’s decision to overrule the council’s objection.

NIDO TOWER

Spitalfields

Height: 35 storeys Due: 2010

Construction is under way at this £118m block of student digs. Locals objected to its size but Tower Hamlets Council gave it the go-ahead. It will be open to all university students living in London.

ODALISK

Croydon

Height: Two towers – 35 and 55 storeys

One estate agent called these towers “ridiculous” but architect Paul Gough says the design is “deliberately exciting”. Plans are yet to be submitted to the council.