Shard Takes Shape as Glass Facade Panels Arrive on Site

The first of 11,000 glass panels that will form The Shard's unique facade have arrived on site with a targeted erection of a floor a week.

The panels, which in total will cover an area of more than 56,000 sq metres, are made of a low iron glass with internal blinds. The glass is manufactured in Germany with the panels assembled in Holland.

Already 2,500 of the panels have been manufactured and are awaiting delivery to site. On arrival the panels will be erected from the internal floors thereby eliminating any hazards that could come from an external erection method. Three crews will be working flat out slotting the panels into place.

Work at The Shard continues at a dramatic pace. The concrete core has already passed the 30-storey level, with the steelwork following close behind.

The Shard is scheduled to be completed by May 2012, well in time for the London Olympics where the building will form a stunning backdrop to the Games.

The Shard is Europe's only substantial mixed-use building comprising offices, a five star hotel, viewing galleries, bars, restaurants and luxury apartments, totalling approximately 920,000 sq ft.