The director of the National Gallery, Nicholas Penny, has expressed his concerns and criticism with regard to the Trafalgar Square. He describes the area as “trashed and maltreated” as a historic location. There are beer cans and garbage left around, and advertising materials are scattered all over the area, tarnishing the Trafalgar Square’s quaint charm. Frequent public events and low civic behaviors primarily contributed to the deterioration of the area, Penny claimed.
The director also accuses local officials of the guilt to the current neglect for London’s historic sites. He added the these officials seem to have neglected protecting the city’s historic buildings, as the city’s landmarks like the Trafalgar Square are trashed before their very eyes. Although he does not oppose the artistic expressions and informal performances held in the square, he hopes that the civilians and public officials would be more concerned and vigilant at caring for and preserving the essence of the Trafalgar Square as one of London’s pride.
