Nottingham architects CPMG have designed a new Quayside Pavilion
for HMS Belfast in London, part of the IWM Family* and Prestige
London.
The new Pavilion, that has just gained planning permission, has
been designed to enhance the visitor experience with improved
entrance facilities, a ground floor café and a dramatic
rooftop café-bar. It will replace the existing platform with
architecture that is more fitting to the surroundings and is
intended to attract passers-by along the popular riverside
location.
The inviting new entrance will inform visitors about the
immersive and engaging HMS Belfast experience. The Pavilion itself
is to be built within the footprint of the existing structure and
will offer an exciting new retail space and ground floor coffee bar
ideal for family visitors. In addition, a dramatic roof top
café-bar will allow visitors to enjoy the stunning views of
the historic ship and surrounding London landmarks, including Tower
Bridge, the Tower of London and City Hall. The redevelopment will
also improve access for groups, schools, corporate clients and
service deliveries via a new gangway.
The announcement about the new Pavilion comes at a fitting time
as HMS Belfast celebrates her fortieth anniversary as an iconic
London landmark. The ship was first opened to the public on
21 October 1981 - Trafalgar Day - and since then nearly eight
million people have explored her nine decks.
CPMG, who also designed The Lord Ashcroft Gallery at IWM London,
are leading the redevelopment alongside the project managers Focus.
Work is due to begin later this year and it is expected to be
completed by Summer 2012.
Phil Reed, Director of HMS Belfast said: 'We're thrilled about
the new Quayside Pavilion which we believe will give HMS Belfast
the support she needs to continue to be a high profile, cultural
destination. As well as enhancing the area's aesthetic appeal, the
new Pavilion will help the Imperial War Museums to ensure that HMS
Belfast is in the best possible position to generate the funds
needed to preserve the historic ship and ensure its long term
financial sustainability.'
"It's great news that planning permission has been gained for
the new Pavilion which will significantly enhance the facilities at
HMS Belfast for the benefit of visitors to this important tourist
attraction," said Anil Parmar, associate director at CPMG. "We now
look forward to work starting on site and then seeing the finished
result once the Pavilion has been completed."