The Barbican Centre in London has announced preliminary plans for renovations of its three most iconic areas.
As a Grade-II listed cultural hub, the centre is engaging in a public consultation regarding proposals aimed at restoring and enhancing the Lakeside, Foyers, and Conservatory regions as part of the initial phase of improvements in the complex.
In December, the City of London Corporation, which is both the centre’s founding body and main financial supporter, pledged £191 million to aid the first five-year stage of development.
A representative from the centre remarked that since its inception in 1982 on the site of London’s largest post-war bombing, the facility has “deteriorated considerably.”
The proposed renovations include:
Philippa Simpson, the director of buildings and renewal at Barbican, described the centre as “a symbol of hope for the future” emerging from the aftermath of World War Two.
“This initiative is deeply aligned with the vision and aspirations of its founders, aiming to redefine an arts centre for the 21st century, creating a vibrant, creative environment accessible to all,” she stated.
Public feedback for the consultation is open until 17 February.
Insights gained from this process will inform the subsequent stage of the proposals, which are set to be released in May.
Pending planning approval, construction is anticipated to commence in 2027.
