Tall buildings 'bring economic benefits'

High-density development involving tall buildings offers clear economic benefits because of increased staff output, according to research commissioned by the British Property Federation.

Researchers Colin Buchanan have produced a report for the BPF which argued that relocating some 80,000 jobs within the capital to more accessible high-density locations would increase output by £206 million annually.

However, the report argued that these benefits were highly sensitive to location and would only be realised around existing transport hubs where density is already high and land scarce, prompting the need to build upwards.

Liz Peace, chief executive of the BPF, said: "It is essential that the debate about high density and tall buildings is well balanced and takes account not just of the impact on the historic environment and sight lines of our cities, particularly London, but also the economic need for efficient growth and development."

She added: "Building more densely is better for the environment, as the properties use less land and workers are better placed to make use of public transport. We’re not saying 'cover our cities in tall buildings', but what we need is balance, and clusters of tall buildings strategically placed around public transport hubs have clear benefits."

Read the British Property Federation press release and access the full report.

Roger Milne

11 September 2008