The Barbican Centre has secured planning permission to transform its one-acre Sculpture Court into a new, fully accessible public square that will open in 2030.

Located above the Concert Hall, the Court was originally conceived as a space where people could experience art and architecture. However, its limited accessibility and poor seating meant the space was largely unused by the public.

The City of London Corporation-approved plans will bring step-free access throughout the Sculpture Court, new climate-resilient planting, improved lighting, upgraded infrastructure for events, new accessible seating and paths, and enhanced wayfinding.

The project has also been awarded development funding of £147k from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, to enable detailed design, heritage research, community engagement and archive development, ahead of applying for a full National Lottery grant at a later date.

Philippa Simpson, chief operating officer at the Barbican, comments:

“These milestones represent further momentum in the Barbican Centre’s renaissance, securing the future of a cultural icon and global destination as we approach our 50th birthday, and making sure these special spaces continue to inspire people for generations to come.”

Colette Stevenson, head of capital campaigns, also comments:

“While essential conservation work will protect the Sculpture Court and the Concert Hall below, this project is also an opportunity to realise the space’s full potential, work with our communities and develop our plans in greater detail. Support from funders and donors enables us to go beyond essential repairs and create places that are more accessible, more welcoming and more relevant to the communities we serve.”

The City of London Corporation has committed £191 million towards the £231 million needed to complete the 2025-30 phase of Barbican Renewal. Additional philanthropic and partnership support will be sought to ensure the full artistic and civic ambition of the programme.