Mayor of London Boris Johnson today gave his backing to the redevelopment of the iconic Battersea Power Station.

His support of the massive redevelopment project, which follows last month's planning permission approval by Wandsworth Council, brings the prospect of a major extension to the Northern Line closer to becoming a reality.

The £4bn project will see 3,400 new homes built on the site and the creation of more than 20 acres of public space. It is also expected about 15,000 new jobs will be created within Battersea Power Station alone.

The station proposal, submitted by Real Estate Opportunities Plc (REO), was referred to the Mayor as an application of strategic importance as it is deemed an integral part of the GLA Group’s wider Vauxhall-Nine Elms-Battersea Opportunity Area - one of the largest regeneration proposals being considered in the capital.

REO's plan includes a commitment of more than £200m in funding towards a two-station extension of the Northern Line from Kennington.

Mr Johnson said: “Battersea Power Station has long been an iconic feature of the capital’s skyline, and these plans will make sure that status is retained for years to come.

"The building was once a vital motor helping to power the capital. With its future secured through this regeneration, it will once again play a part in driving London’s economy."

Rob Tincknell, Director of REO, said: "I am delighted that the Mayor of London has supported the redevelopment of Battersea Power Station, bringing us even closer to delivering the regeneration of one of London’s most iconic landmarks.

"We have worked very closely with local interest groups and residents to develop a scheme which we believe will be of huge benefit to the local community."

The next stage of the process will see the application considered by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.

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