Twentieth Century Fox’s former headquarters in Soho Square is facing demolition despite a celebrity-backed campaign to save it.
Century House is celebrated as the “historic heart” of London’s traditional film-making district. It was the UK base for the Hollywood studio from its construction in 1937 until Disney bought the studio’s parent company 21st Century Fox last year.
A campaign which organisers say has been supported by Sir Paul McCartney, Rosamund Pike, Bond producer Barbara Broccoli and director Mike Leigh prevented the demolition and redevelopment of the building last year.
But fresh plans, which part retain the original facade, have been resubmitted by owners Royal London Asset Management. They are recommended for approval by a Westminster planning committee this week.
Tim Lord, chair of the Soho Society, said: “The building is of huge historical significance in a conservation area in one of London’s oldest squares. Retaining part of the facade isn’t enough, the history is also inside the building which is one of the most important in UK cinema history.”
A spokesperson for Royal London said: “All relevant stakeholders have been consulted.”
The planning officers’ report states: “It is considered that the development would result in some harm to the townscape, however this is less than substantial and is outweighed by the public benefits”.
