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If you pass Marble Arch sometime soon and see the iconic gateway under scaffolding, that's because it's getting a major facelift.
No, it's not being repainted shocking pink to promote the Barbie Movie; these are much-needed conservation works, which will fix up wear and tear from wind, rain, traffic pollution — as well as the work of graffiti artists and vandals. The arch's marble masonry, sculptures, metalwork and roof will all get a thorough cleaning; fresh pointing will be carried out; and missing pieces of marble replaced.
The well-known gateway — which was built in 1833 and was once situated outside Buckingham Palace — will be covered in scaffolding for "well over a year". We're promised by English Heritage, which is overseeing the restoration, that it'll be worthwhile: "We cannot wait to unveil it next year and reveal the arch in all its former glory," says the charity.
