London Development Agency (London): LDA begins Flat Iron Square transformation

Works have begun to transform Southwark's Flat Iron Square into a better, brighter and cleaner public space. This is another step in the London Development Agency (LDA) backed 'Bankside Urban Forest' initiative and is one of dozens of public spaces across the capital to be transformed through the Mayor of London's Great Outdoors programme.

The scheme will close off the southern arm of Union Street where it runs through the square, reconnect the central island to the local parade of shops and improve paving, furniture and lighting in the area. The scheme has been designed by Witherford Watson Mann Architects and Pax Engineering after extensive consultation with local people. 

Daniel Moylan, Deputy Chairman of Transport for London, with responsibility for the delivery of the Mayor's Great Outdoors programme, said:

"London's Great Outdoors programme is creating an exciting network of attractive public spaces across the capital. Flat Iron Square is part of a series of urban realm improvements stretching from the Thames at Southbank as far as Elephant and Castle - helping to create better access too the riverfront for both residents and visitors." 

London Development Agency Deputy Chief Executive Peter Bishop said:

"Well designed public spaces can define an entire area. The changes to Flat Iron Square are part of a wider plan across Bankside to open up the area and spread the regeneration centred around Tate Modern - creating a Great Space that is an attractive place to live, visit and invest in."

Bankside Urban Forest will improve public space in the Southwark Bankside area, and is part of the Mayor of London's Great Outdoors progamme. Bankside Urban Forest is funded by the LDA and commissioned by Southwark Council with the Bankside Urban Forest partnership including Better Bankside, Tate, Cross River Partnership, The Architecture Foundation and Design for London. The Bankside Urban Forest improvements will make the most of the planned extension of Tate Modern and new Blackfriars Station on the Thames Path. 

ENDS

Notes to editors

1. The Bankside Urban Forest strategy is not to create a literal forest, although it includes greening, using trees, planted walls, and other means. The Bankside Urban Forest aims to create a place with a strong overall character, which allows diverse activities, freedoms and places within a city context. http://www.betterbankside.co.uk/bankside-urban-forest
2. London's Great Outdoors - A Manifesto for Public Space' is supported by two practical guides, 'Better Streets' and 'Better Green and Water Spaces'. Together they set out the Mayor of London's vision for improving public spaces in London. This will ensure that our streets, squares, parks and green and water spaces are fit for a great world city, are enjoyed by everyone who visits them and most importantly, help improve the quality of life in the capital. For further information please go towww.london.gov.uk/greatoutdoors