New architectural plans to enhance abbey roof

Proposals have been made to add a crown-shaped architectural feature called a corona to the roof of Westminster Abbey, replacing the existing plain pyramid roof on top of the Lantern, which was rebuilt in 1958 following war damage. The corona needs to undergo a series of planning consents, including public comment and approval; however it is hoped the abbey will have its crowning feature in time for the Diamond Jubilee of the Queen’s Coronation in June 2013.

The design of the corona will be the subject of an architectural competition if approval is given to go ahead. A crown structure is particularly apt for the abbey, and will sit directly above the Crossing, located in the heart of the abbey, where monarchs have been crowned since 1066.

The proposals are part of a larger development plan, 2020 Vision, which will see improvements made to Westminster Abbey over the next decade, including an education centre for children and a café to provide refreshments to the millions of visitors who flock to the site each year.