The City of London Corporation has today agreed to provide funding to deliver the next stage of development for the proposed Centre for Music.

The Court of Common Council, the City Corporation’s top decision-making body, approved the release of £2.49m for 12 months of funding to undertake further design development, and to progress fundraising, business modelling and capital funding plans.

Under current plans, the new world-class venue for performance and education, designed by New York-based architects, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, would be built on the site of the Museum of London, which will relocate to West Smithfield.

In January 2017, the City of London Corporation approved £2.5m in funding to complete a detailed business case for the project, in order to establish its viability.

Catherine McGuinness, Policy Chair at the City of London Corporation, said:

“Today’s decision builds upon the City Corporation’s initial investment in these ambitious and exciting plans for a world-class performance and education venue in the heart of Culture Mile.

“The proposed Centre for Music would attract outstanding performers and diverse audiences, and it is my sincere hope that creative businesses, which contribute a huge amount to the UK’s economy, would be proud to engage with this landmark building.”

Sir Nicholas Kenyon, Managing Director, Barbican Centre; Kathryn McDowell CBE, Managing Director, London Symphony Orchestra; and Lynne Williams, Principal, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, said:

“We are delighted that the City of London Corporation has supported the next phase of the Centre for Music’s development, and we look forward to continuing work on this important project.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to inspire a new generation by transforming how music is experienced in the capital.”

The City of London Corporation is the fourth largest funder of heritage and cultural activities in the UK and invests over £100m every year.

The City of London Corporation - together with the Barbican, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London Symphony Orchestra and the Museum of London – is leading the development of Culture Mile between Farringdon and Moorgate, a multi-million-pound investment which will create a new cultural and creative destination for London over the next 10 to 15 years. This includes £110m funding to support the Museum of London’s move to West Smithfield and £4.9m for a detailed business case and next stage development, fundraising, and design work for the proposed Centre for Music.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

Andrew Buckingham, Media Officer, City of London Corporation

Tel: 020 7332 1452 / Mobile: 07795 333060 /

Email andrew.buckingham@cityoflondon.gov.uk

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 Culture Mile:

Culture Mile is a corner of London’s working capital, where creativity is fast becoming the most valuable currency. Led by the City of London Corporation, together with the Barbican, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London Symphony Orchestra and the Museum of London, the five partners are leading the animation of the whole neighbourhood with imaginative collaborations and events. Culture Mile brings commerce and culture together in a wealth of creativity. Known meets unknown. Ancient and modern collide as the streets are activated by exhibitions, gigs, pop-ups and events. So, whether you’re with family, friends or flying solo, there’s something for everyone. And thanks to Crossrail’s Elizabeth Line connections at Farringdon and Moorgate, the area will be more connected than ever.

Join us today where two thousand years of history collide with the world’s best culture. www.culturemile.london