Barbican Renewal Programme

After more than four decades of continuous operation, the Barbican Centre – one of Britain’s most recognisable cultural landmarks – requires major renewal. Deteriorating fabric, ageing building systems and poor environmental performance demand urgent intervention, while parts of the Grade II Listed complex remain inaccessible to many visitors. Appointed during Stage 3 design and planning application preparation, G&T joined a complex, live project welcoming over a million visitors each year, with a client requirement to keep the site operational as much as possible.  

G&T is providing Project Management and PMO services for the renewal project, delivered within an intensive cultural programme that permits only a one-year closure. We quickly established programme control by developing a robust master programme through close collaboration with Barbican departments and the wider consultant team. Our sequencing and phasing strategy shaped how the £231m transformation will be delivered in practical stages, carefully balancing contractor access, building constraints and the need to maintain live operations across the site. We also supported stakeholder engagement with Historic England, the Twentieth Century Society and the City of London Corporation while coordinating the multidisciplinary team.

Planning consent has now been secured with strong support from key heritage stakeholders, enabling a major programme of accessibility and sustainability improvements. The scheme will introduce new lifts, regraded ramps, improved wayfinding and enhanced visitor facilities, alongside upgraded MEP systems, energy - efficient lighting, improved glazing and rainwater harvesting. The reuse of original materials, including Conservatory steelwork and Barbican pavers, will also help reduce embodied carbon. Completion is targeted for 2030 in time for the Barbican’s 50th anniversary.