The controversial Tulip skyscraper in the City was granted planning approval today despite huge concerns about its impact on historic views of London. The decision paves the way for the 305.3-metre high structure on Bury Street, which will be western Europe’s second tallest building after the Shard.

It is forecast that 1.2 million people a year will visit the Foster + Partners designed slender tower. In the “bud” at the top it will have 12 publicly accessible storeys including a viewing platform with rotating pods, a restaurant and sky bar and an entire floor dedicated to education facilities...