London SE1 > News & Features > March 2000

South Bank plans unveiled

The masterplan for the development of the South Bank complex has now been announced.

The draft scheme prepared by masterplanner Rick Mather for the 30-acre complex includes a new 6-acre park, a new bfi Film Centre to replace the National Film Theatre and Museum of the Moving Image, a refurbished Hayward Gallery and general environmental improvements.

South Bank Centre Chairman Elliot Bernerd said "Rick Mather's Masterplan for the South Bank is pragmatic and deliverable...he has synthesised the needs of artists and arts audiences with the desires of the local community and visitors for more open spaces and better access".

The plan, which the SBC claims will create many new local jobs, will be implemented in three phases, starting with the Royal Festival Hall, moving on to the Jubilee Gardens and bfi Film Centre sites and finally dealing with the Hayward Gallery and its surroundings.

bfi director Jon Teckman said "the South Bank has a very exciting future and the bfi is thrilled to be part of it".

Further information is available on the SBC website at www.sbc.org.uk and from the bfi at www.bfi.org.uk