The City of London Corporation is exploring appetite to help transform the western section of London Wall.

The site is the current home of the Museum of London, which is now closed to visitors in preparation for its move to West Smithfield in 2026, and Bastion House office block. 

The City Corporation wants to establish the level of market interest in repurposing these buildings for new uses.

In parallel, the City Corporation is also considering the full redevelopment of the site, which, if progressed, will help the City Corporation invest in ambitious cultural programmes. This includes a new London Museum which will showcase London’s rich culture and history to millions of visitors and is set to become a ‘Top 10 London attraction’. It is one of the biggest cultural projects in Europe.

Policy Chairman of the City of London Corporation, Chris Hayward, said:

“While demolition is currently regarded as the best option to transform the site and allow us to provide new public open spaces and cultural attractions, it is clear that there is some desire locally for these buildings to be retained. We are actively listening and exploring whether there is a viable alternative.”

From today (3 April), potential developers can express their interest here: Forthcoming tender opportunities - City of London

Respondents will have seven weeks to express their interest. Site visits are being offered to any potential developers the weeks commencing 10 April and 17 April.

The deadline for expressions of interest is 19 May, after which the City Corporation will review any responses received. 

The City Corporation’s Planning and Transportation Committee last month adopted new policies that urge developers to consider alternatives to demolition.

The City Corporation is the first planning authority in the country to issue planning guidance in which developers will be expected to carry out a detailed review of the carbon impact of development options before submitting an application.

This policy supports the City Corporation’s Climate Action Strategy, which commits the Square Mile’s governing body to achieve net zero in its own operations by 2027 and to support the City as a whole to reach net zero by 2040.