One of London?s most famous public spaces has become its newest arts arena, as Trafalgar Square is re-opened following an eighteen-month construction project to improve the area.
Part of the World Squares for All scheme masterminded by Norman Foster, the Square has been re-modelled to pedestrianise the terrace in front of the National Gallery. The project has cost around £25m, most of which has been funded by Transport for London, plus a further £1.5m from the Heritage Lottery Fund. According to Lord Foster, it has turned ?an undignified traffic roundabout into a truly public space?. The re-opening ceremony, led by Mayor Ken Livingstone, included musical stilt-walking by Chromarama and a procession featuring Mahogany Carnival Band accompanied by Cardboard Citizens. From July 13 visitors to the Square will be able to enjoy a regular programme of free musical and other performances in the ?Summer in the Square? series.