Mayor wants say on News International scheme

The application will be heard tonight (Thursday), but Boris Johnson has demanded that it should be referred back to him if approved. The Mayor's office wants further information on transport measures and energy efficiency, and the provision of more "photovoltaic panel coverage" to meet the target of 20 per cent renewable energy generation.

News International abandoned plans to leave the area last year, and promised it would review its re-development plans for Wapping "when market conditions improve".

The publisher of titles such as The Sun and The Times is expected to gain council approval for the bid to turn the site into its UK headquarters, housing other major international brands such as Myspace, Harper Collins, Fox and Dow Jones.

Council officers believe the plan "has the potential to revitalise Tobacco Dock".

In the wake of the relocation of printing presses to Broxbourne in April last year, the print works building would be remodelled, and alterations would be made to the Grade II listed Rum Warehouse building. A total of 1,740sqm of retail and restaurant space would be provided, as would 1,902 sqm for a museum.

Public access would be provided for a new piazza area connecting the canal to Pennington Street, while retail facilities would spring up to the east of the site.

According to the report seen by strategic development committee members, part of the warehouse building will be "made available for public usage, particularly the basement vaults of the building".

Council officers are pushing for a financial contribution of £50,000 towards pedestrian improvements on Dellow Street, £100,000 towards Pennington Street, £100,000 to help reduce impact around Shadwell station and £30,000 to upgrade bus stops.

News International would also be expected to provide 24-hour security, maintenance and management of the public area, and to endorse the borough's Diploma in Creative and Media.

This would involve agreeing to participate in the course and offering two placements and seven internships per year, as well as 10 apprenticeships through contractors during construction. It would also have to notify the Skillsmatch recruitment team about available sales and admin jobs.

The council has received four objections and two letters of support following a consultation covering 2,143 neighbouring properties. Opponents argued that the plan may increase traffic, generate construction noise and boost anti-social behaviour around the canal.

A report submitted by council case officer Devon Rollo stated the plan could "provide significant benefits to the community and ensure the survival of the Tobacco Dock development and its associated historic heritage".