The Velocity Tower, on St Mary's Gate, currently stands at 22 storeys but developers have submitted a new application to extend it to a staggering 36 storeys, towering over all other buildings in the city.

As The Star revealed last month the developers also want to build a second, smaller 22-storey tower alongside its sky-high cousin. Architects Axis Architecture say the tower could include an aparthotel and skybar. The height increase would mean it would stand at 108 metres to the roof and 121 metres to the tip of the wind turbines which will be placed on the roof to provide some of electricity for the development.

Debbie Hoare, from Axis Architecture, said: "From the very early days of the project we always had the intention to propose an increase in the height of the tower and amend the massing of the scheme.

"Planning discussions now underway reflect these aspirations. To maintain its proportions and truly be viewed as a tower the new proposals depress the central wing of the building detaching the main tower physically down to lower levels. An increase at the far end of the wing in turn creates a second subservient tower.

"We think that this is a great example of how a slick commercial facade can be applied to a residential scheme, providing a truly high class city centre living environment for future residents.

"In terms of a high quality development the glass tower has already had an impact on the skyline of Sheffield and become a major talking point in and around the city.

"We hope the new twin towers scheme, if granted, will be loved by locals and visitors alike and inspire further investment in Sheffield."

The application will be discussed by Sheffield councillors in the next few weeks.

What do you think? Add your comment below.

READ MORE
Main news index
Your letters.
Features
More Rotherham news
More Doncaster news
More Barnsley news
Check out the very latest on South Yorkshire's roads - including live traffic cameras on Sheffield's commuter routes - with our Traffic section
Latest sport.