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National Theatre Director Nicholas Hytner opposes Southbank Centre's £120m redevelopment

architecture-design · 2026-04-20

Sir Nicholas Hytner, Director of London's National Theatre, has formally objected to the Southbank Centre's proposed £120 million redevelopment. His complaint, submitted to Lambeth Borough, argues the plans would cause irreparable damage to the National Theatre's Grade II*-listed buildings. The project would obstruct views from the theatre's terraces and cast shadows over its public spaces. Lambeth Borough Council is expected to make a decision on the redevelopment proposal this autumn. The Guardian reported on Hytner's opposition to the neighboring cultural institution's ambitious renovation plans.

Key facts

  • Sir Nicholas Hytner filed a complaint against Southbank Centre redevelopment plans
  • Hytner is Director of London's National Theatre
  • The complaint was filed with Lambeth Borough
  • Southbank Centre's redevelopment proposals cost £120 million
  • Hytner claims irreparable harm to National Theatre's Grade II*-listed buildings
  • Plans would block views from National Theatre's terraces
  • Redevelopment would cast shade over National Theatre's public spaces
  • Lambeth will decide on plans in Autumn

Entities

Artists

  • Sir Nicholas Hytner

Institutions

  • National Theatre
  • Southbank Centre
  • Lambeth Borough
  • The Guardian

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom

Sources