Plans to create a new public space for London by the end of 2013 as part of the redevelopment of King’s Cross station have been unveiled today by Network Rail.

At more than 7000 square metres, the new King’s Cross Square will be 50% bigger than Leicester Square, opening up the space currently occupied by the 1970s concourse extension and revealing the stunning Grade I listed Victorian station façade for the first time in almost 150 years.

Architects Stanton Williams were chosen to work with Network Rail on the new square following an international design competition, attracting entries from more than 100 architects and urban designers from around the world. The square has been carefully designed to complement the area’s rich history and provide a modern, open space in the heart of London.

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Alan Stanton, Director of Stanton Williams, said: "King's Cross Square is a unique opportunity to create a new public space for London and a response to one of the most exciting urban challenges in the city. The scheme will become a focal point at the heart of the wider King's Cross development bringing together major urban and transport improvements."

Ian Fry, Network Rail programme director at King's Cross, added: "The redevelopment of the station is well under way and will see a stunning and spacious new concourse opening in spring 2012. After the Olympics we will then remove the outdated green canopy in front of the station to create the space for this fantastic new square, revealing the original Victorian façade of King’s Cross station for the first time since the 1860s."

The planning application for the square will be submitted later in 2011.

(CD)