Riverside Studios Prepare to Close its Doors ahead of Redevelopment
Free history exhibition and restaurant and bar still open until September 5
Hammersmith's famous Riverside Studios is preparing to close its doors on September 5 ahead of a three year redevelopment programme.
The new six to eight storey building will have 165 flats with balconies and roof terraces as well as commercial floor space for television and film recording studios, and there will be a new riverside walk along the frontage of the site facing the River Thames.
The redevelopment has proved highly controversial. As we reported last November Riverside said that famous faces from the world of theatre and entertainment, including Jo Brand, Bill Bailey and Simon Callow joined Artistic Director William Burdett-Coutts in supporting the scheme.
However, other well known figures including playwright and local resident Stephen Poliakoff, actresses Harriett Walter and Francesca Annis and artist Sir Peter Blake condemned the plans, and local groups, including The Crisp Road Residents' Association, Hammersmith Embankment Residents Association, the Hammersmith Society and The Queen Caroline Residents and Tenants Association have also expressed their reservations about the scheme.
However, William Burdett-Coutts says: " Our existing facilities and the neighbouring Queen's Wharf will be replaced by a new building across both sites.
" Riverside Studios will have much improved facilities including three studios, a cinema and screening room, a community & rehearsal area and a much enhanced public entertainment space.
" The river walkway will be opened up across the front of Riverside Studios and Queen's Wharf. The new Riverside Studios will inhabit the ground floor and parts of the basement, first and second floors, with the remainder of the building being apartments, built by our development partners, Mount Anvil and A2 Dominion.
" The new foyer will look out on to the river with a variety of restaurants and bars. "
For those who want to take a last look at the studios, a free exhibition about its history to date, including some previously unseen images, is open daily in the Gallery until September 5, from 8.30am till 11pm on weekdays, 10am till 11pm on Saturdays and 10am till 10.30pm on Sundays.
The Restaurant and Bar is also open till September 5, on Mondays till Sundays from 10.30am - late, with food Served Monday - Friday 12noon - 3pm and 5pm - 10pm and Saturday & Sunday: 11am - 3pm and 4pm - 10pm.
The studios say on most days there will also be access to the Terrace with stunning views of the River Thames and recommends making a reservation for the restaurant - call 020 8237 1009 or email bookings@riversidestudios.co.uk.
The Film Café is located at the front of the building for those wanting a lighter option and serves prepared sandwiches, cakes and snacks, salads and homemade savoury items. There is also a large selection of teas, coffees, soft drinks available. Opening Hours Monday - Friday 8.30am - 3.30pm
