The Kings Cross Square Carnival
Network Rail are putting on a show this weekend to celebrate the opening of their shiny new square at Kings Cross. If you are after some Victorian family fun over the weekend, then you can take a trip on a miniature train to Granary Square, and taste the darker side of Victorian life; children can try chimney sweeping and shovelling coal, while ladies sip gin cocktails and gentlemen race penny farthings. Expect pearly queens, food from the ever popular KERB street food stalls, fair ground rides and hopefully some good old apple bobbing and Victoria Sponge cake to share. It’s all family-friendly and free (11-6pm both days)!
About King’s Cross Square
The final phase of the redevelopment is the creation of a 75,000 sq ft square at the front of the station. The front extension has been demolished and the area paved in York stone, bringing the grandness of Europe’s city railway stations to the heart of London. The square will have granite benches, stunning lighting, trees and an area dedicated to art. The two Underground entrances are being upgraded and a glass canopy will cover the walk to the Tube.
Transforming the area
The station redevelopment has been the catalyst for one of the largest regeneration schemes in Europe, attracting £2.2bn of private investment. 67 acres of brown-field land is being developed into offices, retail and 2,000 homes. Central Saint Martins College of Arts and Design has already moved into renovated railway buildings to the north, construction is underway on new Camden Council offices and work on Google’s new offices will start soon.
Revealing the facade
With the front extension now gone, the facade of the Grade 1 listed building has been revealed for the first time in 150 years. The Restoration has been carried out in partnership with English Heritage.
What has happened so far?
Since work started in 2007 we’ve added a platform, refurbished the glazed roof, added an accessible footbridge and built a new concourse with three-and-a-half times the space of the old one.
Find out about the King’s Cross project so far.
Creative Bus Stop 