A pop-up theatre, designed to evoke the whimsical appearance of a “Minecraft tree,” is set to grace the site of the Marble Arch Mound, with plans for its opening in April 2026. The Westminster City Council’s planning committee has given its unanimous approval for this innovative venue, which will operate until June 2028.
This temporary theatre will serve as a new home for the Arts Theatre while its current location on Great Newport Street undergoes a significant refurbishment lasting 24 months. Andrew Mills, head of operations for HH Production Limited, the company behind the project, expressed enthusiasm about the site, noting its excellent transport links and multiple bus routes that will facilitate easy access for theatre-goers. He also assured that the existing staff from the Arts Theatre would transition to the Marble Arch location, preserving their employment during this period of change.
Design and Community Response
The proposed theatre is designed with a lifespan of 20 years, with the possibility of relocating the structure after its initial two-year run. The planning meeting highlighted strong support from local groups, businesses, and residents, indicating a community eager for this cultural addition.
However, some councillors raised concerns regarding the building’s green cladding. Councillor Patrick Lilley described it as “sad and a little bit plain,” while Councillor Jim Glen likened it to a “Minecraft tree.” In contrast, a council planning officer defended the design, stating that a previous iteration featuring red cladding would have been an eyesore, likely attracting objections from Historic England. The officer emphasized that the green design is intended to be sensitive to the surrounding environment and complements the Grade I-listed Marble Arch landmark.
Despite the planning officer’s reassurances, Historic England expressed reservations in their submission to the council, arguing that the temporary structure could diminish the prominence of the arch and that its lighting and signage might further detract from the historic site.
The theatre’s construction will feature an aluminium frame clad in lightweight materials made from recycled fabric strips. Inside, patrons will find a welcoming foyer and bar, while the stage will be positioned at the western end of the building, flanked by shipping containers repurposed into toilets, dressing rooms, and offices.
This initiative follows the controversial Marble Arch Mound, which operated between July 2021 and January 2022 and faced criticism for its spiraling costs and the public’s reluctance to pay for access to a hill. As the Arts Theatre prepares to close its doors for refurbishment, its final performance is scheduled for December 31, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter at Marble Arch.
