London’s Southbank Centre is to undergo a £120 million transformation to create modern, world-class cultural centre.
Under proposals published today, the Queen Elizabeth Hall, Purcell Room and Hayward Gallery will be refurbished and a new glass pavilion and central foyer constructed.
The pavilion will offer “first-class acoustics” and be big enough to hold a full orchestra of 150 and choir of up to 250 plus small audience. The existing 1960’s buildings will be overhauled to provide better access and upgrade stages, galleries and back stage areas.
Southbank bosses say the project will allow the Centre to deliver a larger and more ambitious arts, educational and cultural programme.
The proposals will go on display later this week at the Royal Festival Hall and on the Southbank Centre‟s website, ensuring Londoners can have their say ahead of a planning application being submitted to Lambeth Council in late Spring.
The project was designed by architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios and has been endorsed by a cross-party coalition of politicians including Mayor Boris Johnson and Lambeth & Southwark London Assembly Member Val Shawcross.
It also has the backing of English Heritage and Lambeth council.
Jude Kelly, Artistic Director of Southbank Centre, said: We‟re thrilled with the plans we‟re unveiling, which reflect our aspiration to give millions of people a new relationship with this extraordinary historic site and provide them with further opportunities to get involved in the arts and culture.”
