Westminster Council has reopened another newly upgraded public convenience in the West End of London. The latest facility to be refurbished is located beneath Parliament Street and linked via pedestrian subway to Westminster Underground Station. The enhanced facilities, essential for the health and wellbeing of our local communities and visitors, feature a redesign with upgraded fittings and a major new public artwork by James Lambert. The transformation is part of a wider programme across Westminster, that reflects the council’s commitment to improved public toilet provision across the city. Through this investment the council is seeking to incorporate the highest standards of contemporary design and showcase new public artwork which takes inspiration from the local area.
The transformed site is located near Parliament Square, and now includes refitted male and female facilities, an onsite attendant, as well as baby changing equipment and upgraded public safety systems. Being able to offer modern, essential facilities ensures a fairer Westminster for residents and visitors, enhancing the value of these important upgrade works.
As a global hub for culture and tourism, the City of Westminster requires a strong infrastructure of services to support its multitude of outdoor spaces and public attractions. The overhaul of this key site supports wider initiatives to enhance public amenities and encourage more people to enjoy the significant and historic locations near the River Thames. The brand-new facilities are being launched with an exciting new public artwork installation from artist James Lambert, who has been working in collaboration with the delivery and design partners to creatively incorporate artwork into each of the distinct sites. Visitors and commuters will be greeted by the specially made screen-printed tiles as they walk through the now ‘Westminster Blue’ tiled subway, between Exit 5 and 6 of Westminster Station. The digitally hand-drawn illustrations continue throughout the public facilities, inspired by the nearby Elizabeth Tower and Big Ben, with repeated icons of regimented toy soldiers evoking both national symbolism and a sense of whimsy. Graphic hands recall acts of pointing, voting and protest from tourists to suffragettes. There are also references to the iconic arches of Westminster Bridge and the celebratory spirit of the historical Brocks Fireworks, the design nods to the Festival of Britain and centuries of civic gathering in Parliament Square.
Westminster City Council appointed FM Conway, its delivery partner, to carry out the works and to successfully deliver the Council’s vision to strike a suitable balance of form and function. FM Conway appointed Hugh Broughton Architects to lead on the design of each site, along with a team of specialist engineers from Harley Haddow. The Contemporary Art Society Consultancy were commissioned to lead on the artistic partnership, with M&M Moran delivering the construction works.
The Parliament Street site is part of a wider refurbishment programme covering eight public conveniences across Westminster. This is the second refurbished facility to be reopened by the Council this year, after Victoria Embankment public conveniences opened in February 2025. The next site to be delivered is located within the Grade II listed Piccadilly Circus Underground Station, serving commuters and travellers alike. It will feature artwork that gives homage to Anteros’ arrow, as well as entertainment hubs from the past, including music halls and Sega World.
“Located near some of Westminster’s most iconic cultural and tourist destinations, these modern facilities will serve both residents and the millions of visitors we welcome each year. They also now feature striking artwork which celebrates the rich history and vibrant culture of our city. As part of our £12.7 million investment across eight public toilets in the West End, we are proud to be delivering high-quality, accessible public spaces which enhance everyday life and the visitor experience.” – Cllr Ryan Jude, Cabinet Member for Climate, Ecology, Culture and Air Quality.
Just six months ago we delivered the first of Westminster’s flagship Public Convenience projects on the Victoria Embankment. I am proud to see how we have built upon that success and to see our team delivering another outstanding example of public architecture in one of London’s busiest tourist areas.
“This latest scheme has brought an array of new challenges, and I want to acknowledge the whole FM Conway team for their dedication to the wider project vision, as well as give special recognition the team of designers and art consultants for their exemplary expertise and in bringing James Lambert’s artistry into reality and the public eye. Collaboration has been key throughout the delivery of these works, and it is testament to the relationship we hold with Westminster Council and the entire supply chain that we have all been united in our unwavering commitment to quality.”– Matt Smith, Managing Director, FM Conway.
“It is a rare and privileged opportunity to work on a project in such a high-traffic and well-known location as this. Public toilets are a fundamental requirement across the city, but this area is particularly busy with tourists and Londoners alike, which makes the need even greater. We’re proud to unveil this new design that continues our work in supporting Westminster Council’s wider initiative, providing access to sanitation that is practical, inclusive and joyful.”– Hugh Broughton, Hugh Broughton Architects.
