Westminster's infamous Marble Arch Mound site could be transformed into a new temporary theatre, under plans submitted to the local council. The proposal would see a 'pop-up' venue, constructed from recycled materials, occupy part of the island roundabout for over two years.
The Proposed Theatre and Its Design
The application has been made by theatre company Hartshorn-Hook Productions Ltd, which operates the historic West End venue, The Arts Theatre. The company seeks to use the site as a temporary home while its premises on Great Newport Street undergoes a 24-month refurbishment starting in 2026.
The structure would be 10 metres high and hold up to 500 audience members. Its design features an aluminium frame covered in lightweight strips made from recycled fabric, which will be coloured green. The base of the building would use stained or whitewashed recycled timber boards.
Inside, plans show a full-width rectangular foyer with a central bar. The stage will be positioned at the western end, flanked by repurposed shipping containers that will house toilets, dressing rooms, and office space. Access for the public would be via the paved forecourt to the south of Marble Arch.
Planning Decision and Mixed Reactions
Westminster City Council's planning committee is expected to approve the application when it meets on Tuesday, December 9. The council noted that the grassed area has hosted various temporary installations since 2000, including an ice-rink and previous theatre structures, establishing a precedent for temporary use.
The proposal has garnered support from Westminster City, local amenity societies, and businesses. Transport for London has also stated it has no objection, provided detailed delivery and construction logistics plans are submitted. The Metropolitan Police and The Royal Parks have reserved their comments for the meeting.
However, Historic England has raised objections, arguing that the temporary building would "detract from the dominance of the arch" and be at odds with its formal, ceremonial setting. They expressed particular concern about the impact of lighting and prominent signage.
Economic Benefits vs. Heritage Impact
In its assessment, Westminster City Council acknowledged the scheme would cause "some harm" to the setting of the Grade I-listed Marble Arch for a longer period than is typically acceptable. It also stated the arch itself would gain no direct public benefit from the proposal.
Nevertheless, the council's report highlighted wider public benefits, including supporting the West End economy and providing a crucial temporary venue for The Arts Theatre and its productions. If approved, the venue would operate from 9am to midnight, seven days a week, with its opening period scheduled from 26 January 2026 through to March 2028.
The site is designated as Metropolitan Open Land, affording it protection similar to Green Belt. It gained notoriety as the location of the loss-making Marble Arch Mound attraction between July 2021 and January 2022.
