Plans for a new Chinese "super embassy" have been rejected by the London borough Tower Hamlets, against the advice of their own officers.
The plans aimed to redevelop Grade II-listed buildings opposite the Tower of London to create a new Chinese embassy, which would have been the biggest diplomatic base in the UK.
The Tower Hamlets council voted unanimously against the proposed development, in a surprise decision, on the basis that they presented a risk to locals' safety and would disturb traffic. The votes were made after the Tower Hamlets local council received a significant 51 objection letters from residents.
A Tower Hamlets Council spokesperson commented to CNN:
"The committee resolved to reject the application due to concerns over the impact on resident and tourist safety, heritage, police resources and the congested nature of the area. The application will now be referred to the Mayor of London before the final decision is issued."
A spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry said:
"The planning and approval of the new premises of the Chinese Embassy in the UK was carried out on the premise of complying with the local laws and regulations related to building planning. It should be noted that it is the host country's international obligation to facilitate and support the construction of diplomatic premises, and China urges the British side to fulfil its relevant obligations."
