England: Inner Temple redevelopment meets ‘needs and demands’ of barristers

The redevelopment proposals, approved by the City of London Corporation’s planning committee, will include a new tiled roof with dormer windows that will “respect and enhance” its surroundings, the Inner Temple said in a statement. It added that the new design would reinforce “the character of this important London landscape”.

The statement adds: “The extended building will have a dramatic new point of arrival on its new fourth floor with a large glazed roof light creating a bright and welcoming space. The redevelopment will include training space, an auditorium and a terrace with spectacular views over the Inner Temple Garden, one of the largest open spaces in the City.

“It also preserves and enhances existing facilities so important to members, such as the renowned Inner Temple library, where 84 out of 97 reader places will remain.”

However, the changes have not been without controversy. Prominent lawyers and other professional have opposed the redevelopment.

Hugh Broughton, architect of the scheme, said: “The designs have evolved through extensive consultation and have been meticulously conceived to enhance connections between floors and to preserve the traditional character of the building, whilst also introducing elegant and light-filled new spaces befitting a modern professional building.”

An Inner Temple spokesperson added: “The needs and demands of training for barristers and other legal professions have changed immeasurably in the last 50 years.

“To ensure that we remain at the heart of the legal profession both here in England and Wales and internationally it is important we have the right mix of facilities to support our members and the community.”