Bubble wrap aquarium for Docklands

Looking like it is encased in bubble wrap, these are the first images of a new landmark building planned for London.

The aquarium, designed by architect Sir Terry Farrell, is the centrepiece of Silvertown Quays, a proposed £1.5billion housing development in the Royal Docks.

Newham council has granted outline planning permission.

The translucent roof of the aquarium is made from the same material as the Eden Project. It will allow daylight into the building, which will contain plants, birds, reptiles and sea creatures.

The development involves the building of 5,000 homes - of which 1,300 will be affordable - offices, a community centre, library, health centre and primary school.

The aquarium will be next to a giant tank containing a machine that will convert cleaned, heated Thames river water into huge breakers for surfers.