The Piccadilly Lights at Piccadilly Circus. Image @snappysnape

The Piccadilly Lights have been switched off by property owners Land Securities until autumn 2017.

They plan to remove the existing curved patchwork and install Europe’s largest single digital screen.

The work is part of their redevelopment of the Monico site at Piccadilly Circus.

The new development will add an additional 10,000 sq. metres of space.

However, plans also include the loss of 72% of the existing housing from 25 affordable flats down to seven.

Artists impression of the Monico Site by  Fletcher & Priest Architects. Image from planning application 15/07092/FULL approved by Westminster City Council April 2016

Live at Zedel season two preview

Just around the corner from The Piccadilly Lights is the performance venue Live at Zedel.

London’s entertainment press gathered there for the launch of their second season of music, cabaret and comedy.

The evening was compered by dead pan ‘French’ comedian Marcel Lucont who could have been accused of stealing the show.

However, the final performance of the evening by songstress Shingai, formerly of the Noisettes, left the room wanting more.

Shingai Shoniwa at Live at Zedel season two launch. Image: Marieke Macklon

Other notable performers included the trio My Fair Ladies who sang classic songs from musicals.

Tonight @LiveAtZedel, a secret spot beneath #Piccadilly pic.twitter.com/P5TLIaVXjQ

— Where London (@WhereLondon) January 17, 2017

Westminster City Council approves new hotel against officers’ recommendations

Westminster Property Association have reported in their weekly newsletter that a new hotel scheme at 18 and 20-24 Broadwick Street has been approved.

Westminster City Council went against the recommendations of their planning officers.

Cllr Robert Davies, whose 17 year reign as cabinet member for planning will end on 24 January 2017, noted that ‘this is an exciting scheme with exemplary architecture.’

The ground floor of 18 Broadwick Street was formerly an independent pharmacy from 1950 – 2016.

Approved hotel design. Image: REARDON ARCHITECTS planning application 16/09526/FULL

Women’s March on London this coming Saturday 

On Saturday 21st January women across the world will march for ‘dignity and equality’.

This is due to be the first day of Donald Trump’s presidency.

Organisers are expecting over 280 marches in 35 countries describing them as a call for ‘dignity and equality for all people.’

In London the march will begin at 12 noon in Grosvenor Square and end with a rally in Trafalgar Square.

Confirmed speakers include Sophie Walker, leader of the Women’s Equality Party, Sara Pascoe, comedian, Lady Phyll Opoku-Gyimah, Black Pride UK and Polly Neate, Women’s Aid.

pic.twitter.com/oTy2IV8jRB

— Women’s March London (@womensmarchlon) January 16, 2017