City Corporation extends public engagement on plans for Barbican podium

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Barbican Podium

The City of London Corporation has extended the deadline for the public to comment on the second phase of essential maintenance on the Barbican podium.

Waterproofing and drainage refurbishment will be undertaken on the podium including to the public realm in the vicinity of Ben Jonson Place, Breton and Cromwell High Walk.

The works are required as the existing waterproofing membrane has deteriorated and is no longer able to fully protect the concrete structure or the spaces below it.

The Barbican podium is at pedestrian level, sitting higher than street level, which essentially forms the ground floor of the estate.

This is the second phase of the project, following on from the award-winning Phase One which was completed in 2015.

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As part of Phase Two, the City Corporation will also consider improving and extending the existing landscaping. It is hoped a new landscaping design will improve water management, improve the microclimate and increase biodiversity while working towards the principles of the City Corporation’s ambitious Climate Action Strategy.

The public can comment on the plans by visiting barbicanprojects.co.uk.

Policy Chair at the City of London Corporation, Catherine McGuinness, said: “By extending the period of engagement we are allowing more people to comment on the maintenance works which will include improvements to the public realm.

“The coronavirus pandemic has truly shown us the importance of top quality outside space, and the Barbican podium offers City residents, workers and visitors a unique space to enjoy the open air.

“We encourage all of those who live, work and visit the Square Mile to engage with the plans for this important public space as we continue to provide accessible and inclusive public realm in the City.”

The public engagement on the Barbican podium works now closes on February 2.

The project will require a listed building consent and planning permission.

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