The City of London Corporation has approved £25 million, that is 29.25 million Euros, in funding for the first phase of the Barbican Renewal Programme. This program aims to revitalize the renowned arts and conference venue, the Barbican Centre.

The funding will be used to develop elements of a long-term masterplan, undertake further consultation, and deliver early systems and infrastructure work to boost the centre’s operational and environmental performance over the next two years. The Renewal Programme is set to transform underused spaces within the centre for new creative use, whilst also investing in its existing venues and public spaces, and improving the welcome, wayfinding and technical capabilities at the site.

The Barbican Centre, known globally for its Brutalist architecture, attracts nearly two million visitors annually. It hosts a wide range of artistic performances and events. The City Corporation’s overarching vision for the renewal is to preserve and celebrate the Barbican Centre’s vision and design heritage while adapting to future opportunities and challenges.

The project will also focus on improving the building’s environmental performance in line with the City Corporation’s Climate Action Strategy to achieve net-zero carbon status in its own operations by 2027. 

The Barbican Renewal Programme is being led by an award-winning design team, including Allies and Morrison, Asif Khan Studio, and Buro Happold. The team has been engaging with audiences, artists, local communities, and the public to understand their expectations and desires for the renovation.

The Chairmen of the City Corporation and Barbican Centre Board expressed their enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its role in enhancing the City’s cultural and economic life, as well as its global visitor appeal. The Chief Executive Officer of the Barbican Centre showed gratitude for the City Corporation’s support and highlighted the importance of renewing the Barbican building to accommodate the changing needs of artists, audiences, and the community in the 21st century.