This section sets out the approach for harmonising the streets in historic areas that needs to work for the twenty-first century. It analyses the existing streetscapes and proposes a uniform approach suited to the formal historic layout of both the core Seven Dials Conservation Area and the adjacent Covent Garden Conservation Area. As the Leader of Westminster City Council writes in his foreword – ‘The Streets section proposes long-term improvements providing consistency and detail across the two borough’s border and is aligned with the principles laid-out in our 2021 ‘Covent Garden Public Realm Framework’.

It seeks to achieve a calm and dignified setting for the Sundial Pillar and for all seven radiating streets to be finished to a consistent design and palette for one of England’s key conservation areas.

It deals with the streets alleys, courts; the street furniture needed and permissible there, and, together with the Building by Building section, sets out an holistic and practical vision for maintaining and improving the Study Area to the benefit of ground floor enterprises, residents, upper floor businesses and our many visitors from all over the world.

The townscape in Seven Dials needs:

• Retention of the historic and unique street layout;
• Street surfaces that are appropriate to a mid-17^th century street pattern (with later buildings for the most part);
• Retention of items and materials of heritage value where feasible and sensitive relocation if unavoidable;
• A network of clear ways for pedestrians to use in comfort and which are suitable for people with impairments;
• An appearance of ‘well-maintained, quiet quality’ to act as a setting for listed buildings and those of character in the Conservation Area;
• Minimum clutter from other objects and only essential equipment that earns its place in the street;
• Activities and moveable items in the public realm that complement the character of the buildings and area, but capable of clearance if they cause nuisance, danger or disadvantage those with specific access needs; and
• Management to keep it safe and clear.

On the diagram below, move the slider to the right to see existing treatment of footways and carriageways and to the left to see possible finishes.