The British Museum is finally getting rid of its security tents - but the replacement is controversial

"The goal of this redevelopment masterplan, according to the museum, is to shrink chaotic queues and provide an easier, more aesthetically-pleasing welcome experience. The two pavilions will boast 'state-of-the-art' security scanners which not only mean that guests can be screened without having to empty their bags, but there won't be any need for unsightly tents. Co-designed between Studio Weave, Wright & Wright Architects, Webb Yates Engineers, Tom Massey Studio and Daisy Froud, the pavilions are also expected to provide more accessibility and interactive installations."

"Anyone who's visited the British Museum in the last few years will know that its Great Russell Street entrance isn't looking quite as grand as it once did. Since 2016 London's busiest attraction has featured grubby, grey-ish tents for security, which often have lengthy queues streaming out of them. Soon, however, those tents - which many reckon are a bit of an eyesore - will be gone."

Great Russell Street entrance has been covered by grubby grey security tents since 2016, producing lengthy queues and an eyesore. The British Museum has submitted plans to Camden Council to replace current security tents and barriers with two sleek pavilions and to convert the lawns into a Mediterranean-style garden. The pavilions will feature 'state-of-the-art' scanners allowing screening without emptying bags, removing the need for tents, and will add accessibility and interactive installations. The scheme was co-designed by Studio Weave, Wright & Wright Architects, Webb Yates Engineers, Tom Massey Studio and Daisy Froud. Some heritage bodies and conservation groups have objected, warning that the new pavilions would partially obscure views and disrupt the symmetry of the building's Greek Revival architecture.

Read at Time Out London