Plans for a 46-storey tower featuring over 900 student living spaces in Canary Wharf have received approval from City Hall, even though the local council previously voted against the proposal.

During a hearing on Tuesday, Deputy Mayor Jules Pipe remarked that the development would “significantly contribute to London’s annual housing goals,” as reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

This approval follows the rejection of the plan by Tower Hamlets Council in November.

Councillors expressed concerns that the project might lead to an uptick in antisocial behavior and cause “noise and disruption” for local residents, questioning its suitability as a location for student housing.

The proposal aims to create a total of 912 student bedrooms, with 230 of them designated as “affordable,” costing no more than 55% of the market rent.

Mr. Pipe stated: “Although this is an application for purpose-built student residences, it addresses a housing need comparable to 364 traditional homes.

“We’re all aware of the pressing requirement for additional housing, particularly genuinely affordable options, to address the housing crisis and stimulate economic growth.”

Jack Brewster, the development director at the Canary Wharf Group, expressed his disappointment over Tower Hamlets’ refusal, especially after “more than three years of design and stakeholder engagement.”

He emphasized that this master plan is essential for helping Canary Wharf undergo a “transformational process through diversification.”

The council had received two objections from local residents regarding the proposal, and City Hall received one after it assumed control of the application a few months ago.

None of the objectors made statements at Tuesday’s hearing, and the council opted not to defend its rejection of the plan.

Other high-rise student accommodation projects in Paddington and Archway have similarly been “called in” by City Hall, with respective hearings anticipated in the coming months.