The Victorian Society, Historic England and SAVE Britain's Heritage urged Mr Khan to call in the decision to demolish the former Foyles building on Charing Cross Road.

The demolition is set to make room for a new mixed-use scheme including buildings for offices, retail and restaurants and eight residential dwellings, after being granted consent from Westminster City Council, subject to the view of the Mayor of London. 

The societies believe that the demolition of the buildings within the proposed development site, which includes the former bookstore, would cause a substantial and unjustified degree of harm to the Soho area.

Marcus Binney, Executive President of SAVE, said that this was a “Trojan horse of the worst and most dangerous kind” and must be strongly resisted.

However, a spokesperson for Mr Khan has confirmed to Development Finance Today that after carefully considering the application, the mayor was content for the Planning Authority to determine the case itself.

Mr Khan was persuaded that the benefits of the scheme outweigh the heritage loss of the existing buildings.

“He noted that the Foyles bookshop has relocated next door, and the design of the new building increases the amount of public space, including [a] new route through to Greek Street that is in keeping with the Soho area.

“He understands and appreciates the heritage value of the former bookshop, but in this instance he believes the addition of much-needed commercial space, including space suitable for small creative businesses, and the potential to create 1,500 jobs will help ensure this vibrant part of London continues to thrive.”