Controlled Demolition: Documentary of King’s Cross Roof Demolition

The video above looks at the controlled demolition of the rather ugly green space deck canopy that had been obscuring the Grade I listed Victorian facade of King’s Cross Station since the 1970s. From the video description:

This film documents the project, showing how detailed planning and some unique solutions provided a safe and eventually successful controlled demolition of the structure.

I have a bit of a personal interest in this as I visited King’s Cross more than any other station during my Tube walks. Thus, I could see the progress unfold slowly overtime.

For more pictures of what the canopy looked like before demolition please read my blog pots: The Various Faces Of The King’s Cross Canopy Before Demolition

The Various Faces Of The King’s Cross Canopy Before Demolition

With word that the 1970’s era “temporary” canopy at King’s Cross is slated for demolition and removal over the next year, I thought I might take a quick look at some of the photos I’ve taken of it over the past few months.

One interesting fact I learned about the canopy while researching this post, is the fact that since it is considered a temporary structure, Camden council have had to renew planning approval for it each year.

King's Cross Station With St Pancras
The canopy with the St. Pancras Clock Tower in the background and the concourse underneath on show.

King's Cross Sign
Close-up of the canopy and sign with an ever present CCTV camera on show

King's Cross Station
The canopy with the King’s Cross Clock Tower in the background.

King's Cross Canopy Still Intact
One of four photos taken the weekend before demolition began, the edge of the concourse on a rainy day.

King's Cross and St. Pancras Signs
The canopy as seen through the sign for St. Pancras Station. The two rail stations share the same underground one.

Euston Road at King's Cross
The view down Euston Road, with the canopy to the left.

King's Cross
View of the Grade I listed façade of King’s Cross Station, with the roof of the canopy below.

Overall, I think the station will look far nicer with the removal of the canopy. Objectively, it is a rather ugly structure and blocks the much more beautiful façade of King’s Cross Station itself. However, I do feel a slight attachment to the canopy all the same. The last time I visited London before moving here (July 2005), I stayed at a hostel near King’s Cross and it’s been one of the few constants in the area over the years.

Still I very much look forward to how the new “public” square that will replace the canopy will look. If it looks anything like the one behind the station, it will be an improvement. Yet, concerns still remain that it the “public” square will be controlled by a private security firm like the area behind the station. Fine if you’re just walking through, but it does raise many questions about public spaces in London.