Chinese 'super-embassy' in London gets go-ahead after High Court dismisses challenge
The High Court in London has rejected a residents' group's legal bid against planning permission for a large Chinese embassy near the Tower of London, clearing the way for construction.
Ruling paves way for embassy
A planned Chinese 'super-embassy' in London has cleared a legal hurdle after the High Court dismissed a challenge to the planning permission. The decision means construction can go ahead.
Residents' concerns
The Royal Mint Court Residents' Association, which represents families and businesses in about 100 properties, took legal action against the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and Tower Hamlets council. The association argued that the site, near the Tower of London, posed serious risks. It said the embassy might be a target for terrorist attacks and could be used to suppress protests. It also claimed the Chinese government could use the building to enforce what it described as 'draconian' Chinese laws in the UK and to target dissidents. Another issue raised was fire safety. The group said the Chinese side might ignore safety obligations and that, because of diplomatic immunity, such violations would not be enforceable.
Defence and outcome
The government and the council defended their decision, stating that they had 'conscientiously and carefully' considered residents' concerns. After a hearing earlier this month, two judges ruled against the association and dismissed the claim. The ruling gives the green light to the planned Chinese embassy, bringing the latest legal challenge to an end.
