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Traffic ban to help put spotlight on Theatreland Traffic ban to help put spotlight on Theatreland
By Alexa Baracaia, Evening Standard 13.04.07Swathes of Soho and Covent Garden could be pedestrianised under plans to regenerate Theatreland.
A report commissioned by Westminster council puts forward a raft of proposals aimed at improving the environment around the West End's 40 theatres.
Key recommendations include banning traffic from busy roads at specific times to make the area more enjoyabl e for pedestrians.
The consultants also propose creating a Times Square-style landmark of moving adverts to promote shows and venues.
Colour-themed lighting could be introduced to connect routes between theatres and a string of new open spaces with seating could be created across Soho and Covent Garden.
The report was drawn up by urban design firm Turley Associates. It complained that at present Theatreland is an " illdefined area" with dispersed venues and no focal point.
"There are no iconic and wellrecognised Theatreland destinations that provide a central point of focus and attraction for theatregoers," it concludes.
Turley director Ewan Smith said: "The idea is to create a strong sense of identity for Theatreland. Instead of looking and feeling like a place for cars, it will feel like a place for people."
The proposals will be studied by Westminster's planning department before a report is submitted to its cabinet in June.
