The Future of Farringdon, Smithfield and Clerkenwell Green after Crossrail
Tuesday 26 September 2017 - 14:00 to 17:00
The Gallery, 70 Cowcross St., London EC1M 6EJ
Afternoon event exploring the impact of Crossrail on Farringdon and Clerkenwell Green.
The creation of one of the UKs largest transport-hubs at Farringdon Crossrail station will have a massive impact on Clerkenwell, Farringdon and Smithfield. Thousands of additional people will be able to commute into the area, spending power will increase, and property values and rents will rise. Pressures to change the area will be immense. But how should this pressure be guided to enhance the character, develop its vibrancy as a centre for the creative industries, and improve its liveability?
The area is steeped in history. The famous Bartholomews Fair was held in Smithfield, which was also the site of tournaments in the Middle Ages. At a later date, radical protests were held in Clerkenwell Green, where Lenin had his office for a year. The area has retained much of the charm and the appearance it had in the Victorian era and before, even though some parts such as Clerkenwell Green are dominated by parked cars, or by through traffic, as is the case in Smithfield.
Change is in the air. The recently formed Business Improvement District is intent on increasing the vibrancy of the area which is noted for its design community, and is keen to involve business in the developing the future of the area.
Islington Council has major proposals for improving Clerkenwell Green. A statue of the great feminist Sylvia Pankhurst is also planned for the Green. The Council commissioned Atkins to produce a report on the Clerkenwell Village Renaissance, which has come up with exciting ideas.
Equally dramatic changes are planned by the City with the recently announced Culture Mile, the opening of the Museum of London in West Smithfield and the proposed LSOs Centre for Music.
This half day conference will explore the respective Councils proposals for the area, and examine how to make transformation while retaining the charm and individuality of the area. It will look at improving the connectivity of the area for those travelling on foot or by cycle, and making it a better place for residents, business and visitors.
The area has the opportunity to become the Covent Garden of the East - the conference will examine how this might happen.
