Historic views will be protected by law once again

Boris Johnson today pledged to restore the protection to London's historic views which was slashed by his predecessor.

The Mayor said he would seek to reverse planning guidance, published last year, which shrank by up to 80 per cent the "viewing corridors" of St Paul's Cathedral and the Palace of Westminster from points across the capital.

The move, by former mayor Ken Livingstone, made it easier for developers to put tall buildings within historic viewing corridors.

Mr Johnson said he did not want London's historic views "salami-sliced" by developers building skyscrapers.

"I do think we should be protecting strategic views in London, and I do think we should be protecting-beautiful, world-famous landmarks," the Mayor said.

Tony Arbour, planning spokesman for London Assembly Conservatives, welcomed the renewed commitment.

He said: "We are delighted that Boris Johnson will now ensure that the views are preserved for future generations to cherish."

Mr Arbour, who represents Richmond, has been especially concerned about the unique view of St Paul's from King Henry's Mound in Richmond Park.

The former mayor slashed protection for 10 strategic views which had been protected by law since 1991.

THE 10 'CORRIDORS'

View of St Paul's Cathedral from: Alexandra Palace; Blackheath Point; Greenwich Park; Kenwood House; Parliament Hill; Primrose Hill; Richmond Park; Westminster Pier View of Palace of Westminster from: Parliament Hill; Primrose Hill