Speaking to the Court of Common Council today, City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said he was “delighted” that the organisation’s first Destination City event, The Golden Key, exceeded its 30,000-visitor target.

Launched in May, Destination City will transform the Square Mile’s leisure offer, creating a leading destination for UK and international visitors, workers, and residents to enjoy.

He said that when the event took place, the Museum of London had its best day of the year with over 3,000 visitors, well exceeding its target of 1,750 people. 

“The Golden Key was a fantastic first step along the road to recovery from the pandemic,“ he said.

And he told elected Members that “we must continue to ensure – as we have done throughout our history – that the path to prosperity runs through the City of London for all our businesses and residents.”

The Golden Key spectacular free immersive theatre event on 15 October ran from midday to sunset. It featured over 30 independent theatre companies and 200 performers bringing London’s stories to life in an extravaganza of fun.

St Paul’s Cathedral Churchyard, the historic Guildhall Yard, and the London Wall High Walks hosted street festivals, featuring giant puppets, circus performers, contemporary dancers, jugglers, storytellers, and interactive theatre.

And in a dramatic end to the event at sunset, there were three ‘fire finales’ at each festival, with breath-taking performances, flaming beacons, and a thrilling fire garden.

The Golden Key, produced by BAFTA award-winning charity CONEY, was the first major event in a series planned by the City Corporation under its Destination City programme.

ENDS

Notes to editors

ABOUT THE CITY OF LONDON CORPORATION

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

ABOUT THE COURT OF COMMON COUNCIL

The elected Court of Common Council is the City of London Corporation’s highest decision-making body.

ABOUT CHRIS HAYWARD

Throughout his career Chris Hayward has worked in the construction, aviation, infrastructure, and global events management sectors.

He is currently a Director at leading communications agency JBP, a consultant at Keltbray Limited, and Director of Hayward Properties Limited.

He is a former Deputy Leader of Hertfordshire and Dorset County Councils. As Policy Chairman, he effectively operates as the political Leader of the City Corporation.

ENDS