Plans to improve London theatreland

16.03.05

London's Theatreland could be given a facelift to help make visitors to the area feel more safe.

Westminster Council says that London's theatres contribute £1bn to the economy each year and wants its streets to 'reflect the quality of shows available' rather than look dirty and shabby, as many do now.

Arts minister Estelle Morris, the council and the Society of London Theatres (SOLT) will discuss the ideas at a meeting later. Plans include better lighting and provisions for coaches.

Richard Pulford from the SOLT said: 'I think there's something slightly intimidating for almost everybody, in walking along very dark crowded streets particularly if there are perhaps some drunk people around.'

'What we are trying to do is to help improve the environment so that all those people who are there for good purposes so to speak, feel more comfortable and feel better about being there.'

The council wants to work on St Martin's Lane, Coventry Street, Strand Courts and the area's alleys.

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