[MolsonExport]

Twin towers – 53 and 43 storeys – proposed at forks of the Thames

Calling it “the most exciting development in city history,” a London builder wants to bring a more than $400-million project with twin towers, 53 and 43 storeys high, to the forks of the Thames.

The massive residential highrises would dwarf London’s tallest building of 32 storeys, and bring 800 units to 50 King St., said Ali Soufan, president of York Developments that owns the historic site where London was first settled.

An ambitious proposal to build London’s two tallest buildings faced pushback from neighbours — but ultimately received an endorsement from the city’s planning committee.

On Tuesday, a public participation meeting in front of the Planning and Environment Committee (PEC) heard from neighbours of 50 King St. where York Developments has requested zoning amendments to permit a mixed-use building with 53-storey and 43-storey towers.

High praise from mayor for what will be London, Ont.’s two tallest buildings

London’s skyline will soar to new heights.

On Tuesday, council approved rezoning the northwest corner of King Street and Ridout Street for a pair of mixed-use skyscrapers(opens in a new tab) that will rise 53-storeys and 43-storeys overlooking the Forks of the Thames.

“Since this planning application came forward, I spoke with other mayors, and they’re a little bit jealous about this type of investment in the downtown core of a city,” Mayor Josh Morgan told council. “This is not something you see every day.”

Most high-rise buildings in the downtown core currently range from about 26-storeys to 35-storeys.

Connected by a single podium at their base, the development will include 800 residential units plus office and retail space.

Skyline stretching 53-storey and 43-storey towers withstand critics at planning committee