Vox Pop

The Tower of London is undergoing a revamp, including a series of new permanent displays. What other national attractions could do with a makeover and why?

‘I’d refurbish BT Tower as the ultimate vertical telecom exhibition and viewing platform.’

Tim Greenhalgh, Managing creative director, Fitch London

‘Judging by the issues surrounding the Church of England and modernisation, I think that this institution is long overdue a major review. With all of Britain’s wonderful cathedrals and churches, the CoE should take a leaf out of Durham Cathedral’s book: it integrated a stunning installation by Bill Viola. This willingness to find new and innovative ways to encourage visitors to interact and use these amazing spaces may just help to raise those flagging attendance figures.’

Neil Walker, Managing creative partner, CDT Design

‘Brighton’s West Pier survived storms and possible arson. A sensitive restoration with a contemporary twist would help put it back at the heart of the British seaside holiday.’

Alex McCuaigh, Creative director, Met Studio

‘In this fashion-driven, makeover-frenzy culture, where built reality and CGI fiction blur, I propose London’s latest tall attraction, Nicholas Grimshaw’s Minerva Building. It got planning last Tuesday, how ‘yesterday’ is that?’

Richard Woolf, Partner, McDaniel Woolf

‘The Post Office Tower (now BT Tower). The Top of the Tower revolving restaurant was my tenth birthday treat. The tower closed to the public in 1971 after a terrorist bomb and the restaurant followed in 1980. It should re-open.’

Professor Jack Lohman, Director, Museum of London

‘The Law Courts. Government wants ‘new Britons’ to understand what it is to be British and I suggest a visitor centre to show how the law works and the transparency of British Justice. Then move on to Buckingham Palace, Parliament and so on. Not just words on paper to learn but how institutions work.’

Jasper Jacob, Director, Jasper Jacob Associates

‘Get Nicholas Grimshaw to design an Eden Project-type dome in Trafalgar Square for all London pigeons. They can fly in, but not out. All our other monuments will get cleaner and tourists can in turn come to see the world’s largest collection of bird droppings under one roof.’

Marksteen Adamson, Partner, Arthur Steen Adamson

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