Lighting given permission but councillors object to repaving plans

Peter Marino’s controversial plans to refurbish the grade II listed Burlington Arcade in London’s Piccadilly have been partially approved by City of Westminster councillors.

Developer Meyer Bergman appointed the eccentric Los Angeles-based architect to draw up concepts which were refined by London heritage specialist Blair Associates. Two applications were submitted to install lighting and paving.

Westminster planning officers recommended approving both applications but councillors raised concerns about using a single colour for the floor and rejected the proposal.

Plans were originally drawn up for a mosaic flooring pattern but these were amended on the advice of English Heritage. Meyer Bergman said it would resubmit an application for its original proposals.

Markus Meijer, chief executive of Meyer Bergman, said: “With our proposal for lighting enhancements approved, we will now be able to open up the original, unobstructed, view of the arches down the full length of the arcade, whilst accentuating the magnificent architectural detailing of its upper portions.”

The plans have attracted criticism from retailers concerned that they could be driven out of the historic mall. Silverware specialist Daniel Bexfield told BD that he would ask English Heritage to strengthen protection for the arcade by preventing any reduction in the number of units.