Press Release

THE CROWN ESTATE PLANS MODERNISATION OF THE QUADRANT

15 December 2003

The Crown Estate is committed to a £500 million investment in Regent Street aimed at building the street’s reputation as an international destination. The next key stage in the development of Regent Street is focused on an area known as The Quadrant, immediately adjacent to Piccadilly Circus. This area includes the dramatic sweep that is synonymous with Regent Street and an internationally recognised landmark.

The Quadrant encompasses properties on the west side of Regent Street, including parts of Swallow Street down to Piccadilly. On the east side of Regent Street, The Quadrant takes in four city blocks, bounded by Brewer Street to the north.

While the Regent Street sweep is dramatic, it has created problems for the area with pedestrian and traffic movement around Swallow Street, Glasshouse Street, Air Street and Vine Street very difficult. This means that they have become unattractive service streets with nothing much happening at ground level.

The Crown Estate’s ambition for the Quadrant focuses on three key objectives - improving the whole of the area as a public space; contributing to a flourishing city; and conserving and enhancing the built environment.

To this end:

• Glasshouse Street and Swallow Street will become more pedestrian-friendly to create newly identifiable shopping destinations
• Air Street will be re-landscaped creating an attractive route from Golden Square to the north, through the existing beautiful arches in the crescent blocks and down to Piccadilly
• The local streets will be dramatically improved with new paving, lighting, signage and street furniture
• The magnificent continuous facades created by Sir Reginald Blomfield and other architecturally significant aspects will be retained
• Huge improvements will be made to the size and mix of retail space, providing the modern facilities needed to attract and retain the world’s premier retailers in the heart of London
• There will be modern, attractive office developments across the upper floors on Regent Street providing up-to-date office accommodation
• There will be a magnificent new 5 star hotel created in the existing Café Royal, with new retail on the ground floor. The hotel will house a luxurious health and beauty spa and a breathtaking cocktail bar over looking St James’ Park

To outline these exciting plans, The Crown Estate is hosting a Public Exhibition at the New Gallery, 121 Regent Street. The exhibition will be open from Monday to Friday December 8 - 13, from 10am - 6.00pm.

David Shaw, Head of Regent Street Strategy and Development said: “The Quadrant is rightly regarded as one of the most visually striking areas of our capital. The thoughtful and sensitive redevelopment of this area will secure and improve its long-term viability. The massive investment that The Crown Estate is making will help to maintain Regent Street’s position as a unique international destination, both for business, retail and people, for many years to come.”

Click here for more information on the Quadrant development.