Cultural Bankside research forum
Guests joined us at citizenM Bankside to discuss the current investment climate and the social, cultural and economic future of the area.
As our discussions began, we were mindful of Shakespeare's The Tempest, where Prospero speaks prophetically about 'the cloud-capp'd towers, the gorgeous palaces, the solemn temples, the great globe itself...shall dissolve...and leave not a rack behind.'
Charlotte Bourne, Deputy Head of Education at Shakespeare's Globe then began to describe the work that Sam Wanamaker's theatre carries out across the Bankside community and beyond, to maintain the interest in the organisation.
The theatre has been instrumental in re-building this quarter of London along with Tate Modern, but both look to corporate sponsors to maintain their position as cultural attractors to tourists, private and business residents.
Reflecting on the medieval street pattern around Borough Market, both Valerie Beirne of Bankside Urban Forest/Better Bankside and Trevor Morris, Founder and Director of SPPARC Architects stated how important it is in the development of this quarter to respect the history of the place and current buildings for future generations.
Relatively new to the area, Boodle Hatfield moved from Mayfair where the firm had been for 300 years to Bankside three years ago. Partner, Andrew Wilmot-Smith, said how important it has been for the firm to carry out community support work following the recent terrorist attacks in the area and also contribute its real estate legal advice to the new music gig venues such as OMEARA in Flat Iron Square.
A key ingredient that still appears to be missing in Bankside is the range and depth of retail experience which was articulated by Rupert Cowling, Director of Union Street Partners - although the redevelopment of the Vinopolis complex by Meyer Bergman with Network Rail into shops and new streets will partly address this..
Finally, Matthew Bell, General Manager of citizenM concluded by suggesting how important the diversity brand of the hotel group is for the quarter.
We value the research level contribution of those taking part in our forums. Please watch in the podcast above the answers to our question to each speaker on what their wish or concern is for the future of Bankside.