Gazprom skyscraper planned for St. Petersburg

One of the tallest buildings in Europe is to be built in St. Petersburg in the north of Russia. A 300 metre tall skyscraper will form part of a business complex called “Gazprom City”. The world's largest gas monopoly is behind its construction

Critics of the plan say the project would ruin the character of one of Europe's most beautiful cities. In its defence St. Petersburg authorities say the modern complex will create jobs and will become a tourist attraction. The building work is expected to be completed by 2010.