Balfour Beatty appointed to first phase of Exhibition Road project.

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) has appointed Balfour Beatty to carry out the first phase of works relating to the Exhibition Road project, following RBKC Cabinet funding approval for the £3 million contract.

Balfour Beatty will be responsible for unravelling the confusing one-way system around South Kensington Station, which is renowned for its congestion and narrow pavements. This will improve traffic flow in the area, provide new direct pedestrian crossings and more pavement space so as greatly to improve the safety of pedestrians and driving conditions for motorists.

Cllr Daniel Moylan, Deputy Leader of the Council, said: “This first phase of work marks the start of a project that will transform the Exhibition Road area. Returning a two-way system to the roads around South Kensington Station will pave the way for innovative streetscape improvements, stretching the length of Exhibition Road from South Kensington Station to Hyde Park.

Councillor Daniel Moylan, Deputy Leader of Kensington and Chelsea Council and Chairman of LFA2008 Kensington, Chelsea and Knightsbridge Hub Advisory Group said: "Kensington and Chelsea is renowned for its architectural gems. I hope that as many people as possible take advantage of the programme of events and activities organised during the London Festival of Architecture. The closing of Exhibition Road will provide an interesting insight into what life might be like when the road is not dominated by cars."

"RBKC welcomes the support of the Mayor of London and Transport for London, which have partly funded this first phase of the Exhibition Road project. We hope that this generous support will continue as we progress to further phases of the project."

The exciting transformation of the Exhibition Road area will unite some of the world’s leading museums, educational institutions and arts venues to create an attractive cultural destination for everyone to enjoy. It is expected the entire scheme should be complete in time for London 2012.