Final design for Hammersmith's new civic square revealed
Final plans have been unveiled for a new square which borough leaders hope will create a 'civic heart' in Hammersmith.
The computer image shows some of the detail of new flats, offices and restaurants to be built around the square, which will be created through the demolition of the town hall annexe in King Street.
Visitors will be able to walk from the public square down the side of the town hall and over a new step-free bridge over the A4 to Furnival Gardens, designed to lessen the impact of the trunk road and open up a link from the town centre to the riverside.
It is hoped the project, a joint venture between developers Helical Bar and Grainger , will boost investment in Hammersmith and help to regenerate King Street with new homes, a supermarket and shops, cafés and restaurants.
It would also include new council offices built to replace several older buildings elsewhere in the borough, which would be closed down and sold off in a cost-cutting move by the authority.
Members of the public are invited to give their views on the plans during a three day exhibition next month before a planning application is submitted later in the summer.
Hammersmith and Fulham's strategy leader, Mark Loveday, said: "King Street needs a kick start if we are going to make Hammersmith town centre great again. In previous consultations residents have said the final scheme should establish the west end of King Street as a truly desirable place in which to live, work and shop.
"On top of the regeneration of King Street we also have a duty to save taxpayers money where we can.
"We have had many meetings with interested groups in the area and this final exhibition is the last chance for residents to air their views. I would encourage all residents to come and have a look ahead of the formal consultation on the planning application later this year."
Three alternatives have also been drawn up for a new entrance to Furnival Gardens and residents will be asked to choose their favourite.
David Walters, of umbrella group King Street Developments, said: "We have carried out extensive consultation with stakeholders and members of the public, and we feel that the final proposals will deliver the wholescale regeneration benefits required in this part of King Street. We look forward to welcoming the local community to see our final proposals and hearing their views on the design options for Furnival Gardens."
The plans will be on show outside the town hall from 2pm to 8pm on Thursday, June 10, and in Lyric Square from 12pm to 6pm on Friday, June 11, and from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, June 12.