An eight-storey office block will be built on a disused industrial site next to homes near King’s Cross station.

Islington Council approved a planning application by real estate investment firm Delancey to start work on the development at 176-178 in York Way on Monday (July 15).

Under the plans, the site would be used as laboratory and office space for life sciences and technology jobs.

The former low-rise industrial area is close to existing homes near King’s Cross station, and directly next to a plot in Randell’s Road earmarked for new housing.

Developer Delancey claims the new building will bring 1,000 new jobs to the area and contribute £68 million to the Islington economy.

Standing eight storeys tall, the building will sit close to high-rise buildings that have sprung up around the train station in recent years.

Plans claim that new green spaces, street lighting and clearer routes for cyclists and pedestrians will be created alongside the new building.

Through a fund provided by the project, £150,000 will be given for two programmes at Vittoria Primary School and Elizabeth Garrett Anderson school.

These schemes will be provided in partnership with children’s mental health practitioners, NLP4Kids, and include workshops and therapy sessions to improve confidence, performance and attendance at school.