The symbol of London's City, the skyscraper "Cucumber," is for sale

London - The London skyscraper nicknamed the Cucumber due to its shape is up for sale. This was reported today by the BBC, citing the real estate agency Savills, which is involved in managing the sale. Its agents expect that one of the symbols of London's financial district, the City, could sell for around £650 million (22.6 billion CZK).
    The glass giant, standing 180 meters tall, was one of the most controversial buildings in the British capital a decade ago, but has gradually become one of its symbols and most recognized examples of modern art. According to the BBC, it went into bankruptcy this April when the German company IVG Immobilien became insolvent. The building is owned jointly with the stock company Evans Randall.
    The sale of the skyscraper at 30 St Mary Axe, as the building is officially named, is being arranged by Savills along with another real estate firm, Deloitte, and preparations are already in full swing. Real estate agents expect interest mainly from investors from China, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United States.
    According to Savills representative Stephen Down, after vetting the bidders, either one of the interested parties will be selected by the end of September or the beginning of October, or several sealed bids will be accepted. “We could see offers exceeding £650 million,” he added.
    The commercial skyscraper 30 St Mary Axe was completed in December 2003 and opened for operation in April of the following year. It was built within two years by Skanska according to the design of English architect Norman Foster. It is currently occupied by around 20 tenants.