File image of red phone boxes
(Picture: PA Archive)Two iconic London red phone boxes in the West End could be turned into vending machines under new plans.
The decommissioned phone boxes on Coventry Street, which links Piccadilly Circus to Leicester Square, would dispense drinks and snacks under the plans.
The proposals were submitted to Westminster City Council by Nuriyeh Popalzi, who said they would mean the “iconic” phone boxes would be restored.
Other red phone boxes in the capital have been turned into coffee shops and a mini community ‘hub’.
In her submission, Ms Popalzi said: “Both telephone kiosks are decommissioned and kept in poor condition of maintenance, attracting anti-social behaviour, and creating an unpleasant site in one of the most historic and touristic parts of London.
“Nonetheless these red telephone boxes are considered a key part of London not only for the Londoners but also for the tourists, from all over the world coming to London.
“For decades these red telephone boxes have been a symbol of London and in fact a symbol for the whole of Great Britain.”
Money from the 24 hour vending machines would be used for “charitable purposes”. It would require the boxes' doors to be removed and for them to be repainted, said Ms Popalzi.
She said the plans would “allow us to not only keep a good state of maintenance” but would also provide “a modern service for this busy location, where one can grab a snack or a drink without the need to queue”.
The plans are currently under consultation.
