MI5 endorse 'Ring of Steel' for Broadcasting House - BBC gets go-ahead for anti-terror plans
Published: 16 July 2010
by JAMIE WELHAM
THE BBC has been given the final go-ahead to build a fortress-style parapet around Broadcasting House to defend it from terrorist attack.
Under the £5million scheme, which has been endorsed by MI5, an imposing “ring of steel” consisting of hydraulic rising bollards and concrete planters is being erected around the landmark building in Portland Place. Parking spaces will be lost from the immediate perimeter to “prevent vehicular attack”.
The proposals are outlined in an internal council report, which also reveals City Hall officials will enter into a “bond” agreement with the BBC to protect the council should the broadcaster breach its obligations.
Despite having already obtained planning permission, until now details of security arrangements have been unclear because of the involvement of MI5.
The corporation’s security department is following the example set by staff at the American Embassy in Grosvenor Square, where bollards were put in place to prevent car bombers getting too close.
Grade-II listed Broadcasting House will soon be the centre for BBC News when the department moves from Television Centre.
Under the security measures listed in a council document are static manganese steel “City” bollards, hydraulic rising security rated bollards at the former junction of Langham Street and All Souls’ Place, rising telescopic security rated bollards at the junction of Hallam street and Langham Street, and reinforced concrete planters in Portland stone.
The scheme – which also involves cleaning up the pedestrianised “world” area in front of the building – has not been without its critics.
Police have objected to the new road layout, claiming proposals to move the pedestrianised crossing poses an “increased risk to pedestrians” and residents in the area and the Marylebone Association have complained that the designs are not grand enough.
Stephen Quinn, a member of the Marylebone Association, said: “This is an extremely prestigious site of international significance. We are extremely anxious there has not been enough attention given to the design of this project. Why do we have to use cheap concrete slabs? This is London!”
A BBC spokeswoman said: “This work will enhance the area, especially in terms of tree planting.”
When permission was granted in January, Cllr Robert Davis, Westminster City Council’s deputy leader and chairman of the committee, said: “The terrorist threat is a real one and we need to ensure that the headquarters of the BBC, one of the world’s major broadcasters, is adequately protected.”
A council spokeswoman said: “The plans improve access for people visiting the area. The existing zebra crossing is being replaced with a better one which helps people visiting the BBC and others who want to come to Portland Place. The location on the bend in the road ensures that people crossing the road can see the road better.
Work is due to be completed by November.