In message , John Rowland
writes

Incidentally, I noticed today that a huge site is being redeveloped on the
north side of Victoria Street, opposite the cathedral. What was there
before, and was it pretty?

Grim '60s office blocks: Esso House, Glen House, Elliot House and
Transport House -

http://www.cityoffices.net/static/pr...eet_ _230.cfa

It is arguable whether the replacement will look a lot better:
http://www.epr.co.uk/architect_masterplan_stag.html
--
Paul Terry