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Amy ClarkeLondon
The Barbican will shut its doors for a year from June 2028 as part of a £191m overhaul of the Grade II-listed arts centre ahead of its 50th anniversary.
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 building is known for theatre, dance, and music performances as well as art exhibitions.
Its overhaul will also improve sustainability through a “retrofit-first” approach that reuses materials such as conservatory glass and pavers. It 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.
Some essential improvements are already under way, but the next major phase has been confirmed following the additional £191m funding from the City of London Corporation.
A fundraising campaign is being planned to pay for the completion of the refurbishment of key public spaces.
Cinemas on Beech Street and access through the residential estate will remain open during the one-year closure.
‘Spirit of optimism’
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, and ready for the future.”
Dame Kathryn McDowell, managing director of the LSO, said they “welcome the vital investment”.
The orchestra will deliver its full 2028/29 season across London and on tour, with the two preceding seasons at the Barbican as planned.
During the closure, St Luke’s will become LSO’s main base with more concerts, recordings, and broadcasts, supported by upgraded digital facilities.
The Barbican also intends to collaborate with partners to deliver alternative programming elsewhere during the closure.
