Marble Arch to have theatre 'like Minecraft tree'

A pop-up theatre that "looks like a Minecraft tree" will be built on the site of the infamous Marble Arch Mound and will open in 2026.

Westminster City Council's planning committee voted unanimously to back the proposal, which will be open from the beginning of April 2026 to the end of June 2028.

The site would be a temporary venue for the Arts Theatre while its Great Newport Street location undergoes a 24-month refurb from 2026.

Applicant Andrew Mills, head of operations for HH Production Limited - an entertainment, hospitality and lifestyle company - described the location as a "perfect fit".

He cited excellent transport links and multiple bus routes "ensuring guests can access the theatre conveniently".

He also said the company intended to retain employment of the staff at the current Arts Theatre with them transferring over to Marble Arch in due course.

The theatre will have a 20-year lifespan and could be reconstructed elsewhere after the two-year period, he said.

The application had the backing of a number of local groups, businesses and locals, the planning meeting heard.

Some councillors questioned the use of green cladding on the proposed building, with Patrick Lilley saying it looked "sad and a little bit plain", while Jim Glen said it "looked like a Minecraft tree".

A council planning officer said a previous version with red cladding would have been a "blot" on the landscape and would likely have drawn an objection by Historic England.

He said the green design was "sensitive to the surroundings", and that the structure "complimented" the Grade I-listed Marble Arch landmark.

Despite this, Historic England wrote in a submission to the council that the temporary structure would "detract from the dominance of the arch" while lighting and prominent signage would contribute to the harmful impact.

The building is expected to consist of an aluminium frame clad in lightweight material made from recycled fabric strips.

Inside, there will be a foyer and a bar.

The stage will be located at the western end of the building and surrounded on three sides by shipping containers transformed into toilets, dressing rooms and offices.

Between July 2021 and January 2022, it was the site of the Marble Arch Mound, which drew criticism and derision after costs spiralled and visitors were reluctant "to pay £4 to walk up a hill".

The Arts Theatre on Great Newport Street is shutting its doors for refurbishment next year.

Its final performance will be on 31 December.

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