Twentieth Century House in Soho spared demoliton
By Adrian Zorzut, Local Democracy Reporter
A building with historical links to the UK’s filming industry has been saved from demolition after its owners withdrew plans to knock it down.
Twentieth Century House in Soho had been the UK headquarters for 20th Century Fox since 1937, but the building fell into disrepair after staff relocated in 2017 when the company was bought out by Disney in a £54b takeover.
In 2019, Royal London Asset Management, which rents out the building to Disney, submitted planning permission to knock it down.
However, in a last-minute turn of events last week, the owner pulled its proposals and said it was considering “all options”.
The firm initially wanted the unlisted building demolished and replaced with offices, retail and restaurant units.
But the new design met stiff resistance from local groups, including The Soho Society, which called for it to be restored.
It said Twentieth Century House had “deep historical connections” with the film industry based in Soho and plans to turn it into an office block would “detract from one of London’s most well-loved and historical squares”, according to an online petition launched by the group.
Westminster councillor Ryan Jude praised Royal London’s decision to withdraw plans. He tweeted: “This is fantastic news. The demolition plans would’ve been appalling for the climate, and for local heritage.
“Our position on the Twentieth Century House application was clear – no to demolition…Glad Royal London saw sense & withdrew these plans.”
Tim Lord, from The Soho Society, said: “The Soho Society welcomes Royal London’s decision to withdraw its application to demolish Twentieth Century House in Soho Square.
“Many people were concerned about the loss of this quality building from 1937 given its 90-year connection to the UK’s film industry with 2,237 people signing the Soho Society’s petition.”
He said Soho Square was originally designed in 1670 and contains no fewer than 17 listed buildings, with Twentieth Century House being “a fine building itself and a good neighbour visually” that should be retained.
A Royal London spokeswoman said: “I can confirm that we have withdrawn the planning application in Soho Square, and we are now reflecting on the right long-term solution for the site.”
Pictured top: 20th Century House in Soho Square, which was spared demolition (Picture: Google Street View)
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