Barbican's £231m revamp plans given the go-ahead

The Barbican Centre is to get a £231m overhaul after plans to upgrade the Grade II listed arts venue were given the go-ahead.

A number of accessibility issues will be addressed in the revamp, which was approved by the City of London Corporation, with step-free access throughout the site.

The Barbican's distinctive brutalist foyers and lakeside terrace will also be developed to protect the heritage of the building, and a climate-controlled habitat to support plant health is to be introduced.

Philippa Simpson, the Barbican's chief operating officer, said she was "thrilled" planning consent had been granted.

"This programme invests in the whole life of the centre. It will improve access, release spaces for public use, and support ambitious artistic work at every scale," she said.

"This decision secures this visionary place of art and encounter for future generations and will help us expand our reach nationally and internationally."

Under the plans, there will be a new lift and staircase in the conservatory to allow public access to raised balconies.

A second lift will be installed in the main foyer to improve access to the concert hall theatre, and there will be a new multi-faith room and extra toilets.

The wider space will also be improved to enable greater programme flexibility within the Barbican's public spaces as part of a plan to expand its creative offering and attract new audiences.

The City of London Corporation has committed £191m towards the £231m needed to complete the first phase of the renewal programme, with the remaining funds sought through philanthropic and partnership support.

Chris Hayward, the corporation's policy chairman, said the decision marked a "major step forward for the Barbican Centre and its place on the world stage".

"Just as importantly, we're transforming the centre so it's open, accessible and ready for the future," he said.

Opened in 1982 by Queen Elizabeth II, the Barbican is one of the largest performing arts centres in Europe and draws in millions of visitors each year.

The centre, which is home to the London Symphony Orchestra, is to close for a year from June 2028 to complete the works.

The design team delivering the programme is to be led by Allies & Morrison working with Asif Khan Studio and engineers Buro Happold.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to hello.bbclondon@bbc.co.uk