Claridge’s may now build Britain’s biggest mega-basement after planners ruled it would enhance London’s reputation as a luxury destination.

The five-star Mayfair hotel will increase its floor space by 20k SF to house a swimming pool, a spa, a sauna, a wine cellar, a bakery and an in-house chocolatier over five new storeys beneath the hotel, according to the Evening Standard.

Westminster gave the project a nod despite the council’s clampdown on so-called "iceberg basements". The Maybourne Group, which also owns the Berkeley and Connaught, argued that the facilities destined for the underground extension are must-haves for a modern five-star hotel. The group said extra laundry and storage would reduce the number of delivery vans required each day, meaning less noise and disturbance.

The basement is part of an extension and modernisation programme that will add 40 rooms on two new floors at the 203-room hotel. [ES]