BATTERSEA
First Tube roundels installed at new Northern Line Extension station
Transport for London (TfL) have released images of the latest version of its historic design icon, the roundel, after the first ones were installed on the platform at the new underground station in Battersea. In total, 113 roundels are being manufactured for installation at the two new Northern Line Extension stations, which are scheduled to open in autumn 2021 – 62 for Battersea Power Station and 51 for Nine Elms. Not yet visible to the public, the arrival of the new roundels signifies an important milestone in the construction of the Northern Line Extension, the first major tube line extension since the Jubilee line in the late 1990s. The extension will connect Kennington to Battersea Power Station, via Nine Elms, bringing Battersea and surrounding areas to within 15 minutes of the City and the West End. The new roundels, among the most recognised and imitated logos in the world, are being manufactured at family-owned AJ Wells & Sons on the Isle of Wight where London transport signage has been produced for generations. They are the first roundels to
be made for a northern line station since the opening of the extension to Morden in 1926. Work to extend the line is currently focused on the fit-out of the new stations including the installation of escalators and power supply, and the extension of signalling used on the Northern line. The extension is enabling the regeneration of the Vauxhall, Nine Elms and Battersea areas, spurring economic growth by supporting around 25,000 new jobs and more than 20,000 new homes. Heidi Alexander, London’s deputy mayor for transport, said: “It’s really exciting to see roundels now in place at Battersea Power Station – it makes the opening of the extension next year feel so much closer. These are the first new Northern line roundels in nearly 100 years and their arrival brings to life the huge difference the extension will make – easier journeys for thousands of Londoners, as well as supporting the creation of new jobs and homes in our city.”
Stuart Harvey, TfL’s director of major projects, said: “The roundel is recognised around the world as the symbol of London’s transport network so it’s a highly significant moment when the first one is installed at a new station. As well as new roundels, our two Northern Line Extension stations now have track, platforms and escalators as their transformation from concrete shells to state-of-the-art stations continues apace. The arrival of the new roundels also demonstrates how sustained investment in the capital’s transport infrastructure benefits not only Londoners but the whole country, through the extensive business supply chain.” In addition, the two new Northern Line Extension stations will feature newly commissioned permanent artworks that will be incorporated into the ticket halls of each station.
BOXING GYM expands into Battersea Power Station
Battersea Power Station will soon be home to a new high-end boxing gym. BXR London has announced it will expand into the iconic power station in 2021 following the success of its studios in London’s Marylebone and Canary Wharf. At 14,000 sq ft, it is BXR’s largest site to date. World champion boxer Anthony Joshua is a stakeholder in the BXR business. BXR Battersea will form part of Battersea Power Station’s highly anticipated second phase of redevelopment of the Grade II* listed building itself, launching in 2021. It will house BXR’s second members-only gym along with three Sweat by BXR pay-to-train studios and state-of-the-art facilities.
BXR Battersea will be located in the power station’s Turbine Hall B, which was completed in the 1950s. Olia Sardarova, BXR owner and founder, said: “London is an important fitness market with energy and high-performing individuals. BXR is thrilled to be opening at Battersea Power Station in one of London’s most iconic redevelopment projects.” Sam Cotton, deputy head of leasing at Battersea Power Station Development Company (BPSDC), said: “The BXR concept is unlike any other fitness brand out there. The brands we are bringing to Battersea will provide local and out-of-town visitors
alike with the opportunity to experience the latest in health, beauty, fashion, food, wellness and beyond.” Once open to the public in 2021, Battersea Power Station will become one of London’s most vibrant and exciting destinations. The landmark building will house more than 100 shops, restaurants and cafes, 253 apartments, and a unique chimney lift experience offering 360-degree panoramic views of London’s skyline from a height of over 100m. It will also be home to Apple’s London Campus, Swedish business members club, No18 and Battersea Energy House – a unique collection of event spaces with a 2,000-person capacity.
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