Glass Testicle

Minister for London Nick Raynsford inspected the building prior to handover and said: 'I love it not least because it dares to be different, combining stunning radical design with advanced environmental features and full access for Londoners. It is already a landmark and will, I believe, provide a fitting home for the Mayor and Greater London Assembly.

'City Hall is being procured, on a 25 year lease, at a rent of just £36.50 ($53) per sf, with rental increases limited to just 3.5% per year. This package represents outstanding value for money not just for the GLA but for the taxpayer too.'

City Hall is owned and was developed by CIT Group. The design by architects Foster and Partners is 75 per cent more energy efficient than a conventional rectangular building. The 145 ft high glass clad building also features natural ventilation and water cooling from boreholes beneath the building.