One London: City’s New Tallest Building Gets 2028 Start Date
A New Giant Rises in the Square Mile
The City of London is about to get a dramatic new addition to its iconic skyline. Construction on One London—previously known as 1 Undershaft—will begin in 2028, with completion expected by 2033. Standing at 309.5 metres tall, it will match the height of The Shard and claim the title of the City’s tallest building, fundamentally reshaping the view from landmarks like Tower Bridge and across to Trafalgar Square.
The tower will occupy the site of the current Aviva Tower (St Helen’s), a 1960s structure that at 118 metres will become London’s largest building ever demolished. This significant undertaking reflects the ambitious regeneration underway in the financial district. The new development, masterminded by Aroland Holdings and designed by acclaimed architect Eric Parry, promises not just office space but a public-facing element: a viewing gallery managed by the London Museum will offer residents and visitors a new vantage point over the capital’s historic centre and modern skyline alike.
What the Name Change Tells Us About Modern London
The rebranding from 1 Undershaft to One London marks a subtle but telling shift in how developers market major City projects. The original name, while historically rooted—referencing the medieval St Andrew Undershaft church and the ancient maypole that once dominated the area—proved a source of quiet amusement among locals. The new moniker is deliberately broader, speaking to global ambitions rather than local heritage.
This follows a well-established pattern: One Blackfriars, One Nine Elms, One Kensington Gardens, and One Tower Bridge have all adopted similar naming conventions to appeal to international investors. Local observers note that the trend culminates here, arguably at its most extreme—the name itself becomes almost redundant in its genericity. For residents who cherish the City’s medieval roots and quirky street names, it’s a reminder of how development pressures reshape not just buildings but their very identity. The London Museum’s involvement in operating the viewing gallery suggests an effort to maintain some cultural anchoring despite the corporate naming.
What Happens Next: Timeline and Community Impact
For local residents, workers, and businesses in the City, the next five years will bring significant disruption and opportunity. The demolition of the Aviva Tower—set to be the most complex building removal in London’s history—will dominate conversation from 2025 onwards. Transport routes around the Gherkin and Cheesegrater will inevitably feel the impact of heavy machinery and increased traffic, particularly affecting those who commute through Liverpool Street and Leadenhall Market.
However, the development also represents substantial investment in the Square Mile’s future. The London Museum partnership signals commitment to public access and cultural programming, potentially drawing more visitors to this corner of the City. Once operational, One London could become a major london attraction alongside Tower Bridge and other landmarks. Residents should stay informed through City of London planning consultations and community forums. Workers in adjacent buildings should prepare for temporary access disruptions. The completion in 2033 will reshape this historic financial district, making it essential for locals to engage with the development process now while decisions remain open to community input.
Source: One London: City’s Future-Tallest Building Gets New Name
