Eco-tower planned for Mile End

This unique eco-skyscraper clad in wooden trellis, with climbing plants growing up its side, could become London's latest landmark.

An application to build the 19-storey tower - named The Belvedere, meaning beautiful view - at the southern end of Mile End Park has been submitted to Tower Hamlets planners.

A decision on whether it can be built is expected in April.

The 200ft tower is proposed for a site just within the southern entrance to the park.

It has been designed by architectural practice FAT (Fashion, Architecture, Taste) and "has been designed to meet high sustainability targets".

Energy will be supplied by a ground source heat pump and solar panels.

The developers are the Tibus Partnership, in association with Environment Trust Associates. Jon Aldenton, of ETA, said: "This will be another green first for Tower Hamlets."

The scheme comes as skyscrapers spread across the capital. In Croydon a £49 million, 29-storey tower was granted planning permission earlier this month.