A number of public spaces in the Victoria area of London are set to be transformed into more welcoming environments thanks to a new project.

Victoria and Victoria Westminster Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and Urban Flow have developed a vision for the sites which will focus on reducing traffic and increasing green infrastructure.

This People Wanted vision aims to help people who live, work and visit Victoria to really enjoy its public spaces and surroundings.

People Wanted is intended to provide a framework for stakeholders to work together towards an ambitious future for placemaking and public space in Victoria. It has been developed alongside dialogue with Westminster Council and other stakeholders, and the vision document will form part of Victoria's future Place Plan, which is being led by the Council. The vision is subject to further consultation, permissions and funding but aims to provide a framework for potential future projects to be discussed and undertaken.

The transformation of Parliament Square involves the removal of through traffic from both the eastern and southern sides of the square and pedestrianising the route to The Palace of Westminster and Westminster Abbey. This will create a vibrant and accessible public space, improving the visitor experience to this world famous part of London and allowing people to fully appreciate its iconic status as a World Heritage Site through an improved approach to Westminster Abbey and enhanced views of the Palace of Westminster.


People Wanted also proposes a new linear park along Victoria Street by reclaiming space from road traffic and creating a connected green corridor between Victoria Station and Parliament Square and the surrounding streets and spaces, whilst retaining its function as an important route for vehicles.

Meanwhile, The Arc – an alternative route to Victoria Street – from Whitehall to Victoria Station via Tothill Street and Broadway envisages lively shop fronts and cafes vitality as well as a much improved pedestrian experience through more crossings, greenery and wider pavements.

People Wanted sees the opportunity to create a dramatic setting for Westminster Cathedral by bringing Cathedral Piazza to life through water features and planting.

Ruth Duston, OBE, OC, Chief Executive of Victoria and Victoria Westminster BIDs, said: "We are thrilled to be revealing our new public realm and placemaking vision for Victoria. We believe that public spaces play a vital role in strengthening our societies and should be designed to function with people at their very heart.

"We know our vision is ambitious but we think it's achievable and we've already set a precedent – the transformation of Christchurch Gardens was included in previous vision documents produced by the BID and works are now underway to create a public park for everyone to enjoy. With its unique role and mandate, the BID is able to pull the right people together from across the public and private sectors to get these bold projects moving."

(CM/JG)