‘Teething problems’ force Marble Arch Mound to shut

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The mound at Marble Arch has been shut just two days after it opened on Monday, as “elements” of the mound “are not yet ready for visitors.” Westminster City Council’s expensive temporary installation has been subject to a barrage of online ridicule, since it did not quite live up to expectations as promised in the marketing brochure. Westminster City Council said that anyone who has booked a visit to the Marble Arch Mound during the first week of opening will be offered both a refund and a return ticket so that they can “see the mound at its best.” They explained: “The Mound is a living building by design. We’ll continue to adapt and improve London’s newest outdoor attraction and resolve any teething problems as they emerge.” The looming pile of soil was designed by Rotterdam-based MVRDV architects and was created as part of a bid to make London greener, with its website describing it as “a new and meaningful experience that captures the imagination of residents, businesses and visitors.” The 25m-tall temporary structure, which is set to remain in Central London until January, is meant to offer views over Hyde Park, Oxford Street and Marble Arch. One Twitter user even described it as: “The worst thing I’ve ever done in London.” If the mound’s lack of popularity persists, Westminster City Council may struggle to make back its outgoings.