Under construction – Guy's Tower scheme is launched

Friday 13 July 2012


MP Simon Hughes, with local apprentices in high-vis tops and hard hats, cutting a ribbon to launch the Guy's Tower re-cladding scheme.

Work to replace the exterior of the world’s tallest hospital has begun.

MP Simon Hughes officially launched the Guy’s Tower re-cladding scheme yesterday. Rising to 34 storeys and, at 143 metres, Guy’s Hospital tower is the tallest hospital building in the world. The Tower Wing opened in 1974 and has been a landmark on the South Bank skyline ever since serving the population of south east London well in its 38 years of existence, but the exterior is now in need of an extensive overhaul.

To secure the future of the Tower for the next 30 years, a full refurbishment of the external façade is needed, including new replacement windows and new energy efficient aluminium cladding.

MP for Southwark and Bermondsey, Simon Hughes, said: “We don’t just want our local hospitals to provide the best care, we want that care to be provided in the best buildings, and Guy’s and St Thomas’ are leading the way. This scheme is part of a ten-year plan for the Trust which plan to invest in a series of building projects that will create a better environment, for better care.

“It’s also great to see that the contractors Balfour Beatty have employed a workforce of apprentices from the local area – ensuring our local residents are learning new skills, and have opportunities for employment.”

The design will transform the building’s external appearance and its iconic position in the London skyline.  

Steve McGuire Director of Essentia, the department responsible for developing the Trust’s vision for the future, said: “We aim to transform the Tower’s external appearance, to deliver a sustainable landmark design that benefits the Trust as a whole, and with an impact reaching beyond the hospital site into the London Bridge Quarter and beyond.”

Bob Clark, Managing Director at Balfour Beatty, said: “Balfour Beatty is delighted to be working collaboratively with the Guy’s and St Thomas’ team to transform their landmark tower. We look forward to delivering a scheme that will exceed the expectations of all involved.

Last updated: March 2022

Contact us

Media enquiries
Phone: 020 7188 5577
Email: [email protected]