"The cultural destination, which opened in 1982, and is the home of the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO), has deteriorated "significantly" over the years. Plans to revamp creative and performance spaces as well as restore the brutalist foyers, Lakeside Terrace and Conservatory, have been given approval by the City of London Corporation which is funding 80% of the work. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with the first phase finished by 2030."
"The overhaul will also improve sustainability through a "retrofit-first" approach that reuses materials such as conservatory glass and pavers. It also aims to upgrade "building systems and ageing materials" while "underused areas of the site will be unlocked". The renewal will make the centre more inclusive and accessible, with plans for a new multi-faith room, increased bathroom provision, improved wayfinding, and full accessibility in the Conservatory."
"Philippa Simpson, Barbican director for buildings and renewal, said: "This is a defining moment for the Barbican. "Today's approval gives us the confidence and certainty we need to deliver essential upgrades for generations to come. "The Barbican rose from the ruins of a bombsite nearly 50 years ago, and in summer 2029 we will embrace that same spirit of optimism renewed, revitalised"
The Barbican will close its doors for a year from June 2028 as part of a £191 million overhaul ahead of its 50th anniversary. The Grade II‑listed arts centre will see creative and performance spaces revamped and brutalist foyers, Lakeside Terrace and Conservatory restored. The City of London Corporation is funding 80% of the work, with construction starting in 2027 and first-phase completion expected by 2030. The programme adopts a "retrofit‑first" approach to reuse materials, upgrade building systems, unlock underused areas, and improve inclusivity with a multi‑faith room, more bathrooms, better wayfinding and full Conservatory accessibility.
Read at www.bbc.com
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