The U.S. Embassy London
Perimeter Security
Chances are if you've passed the U.S. Embassy on Grosvenor Square, you've seen the construction and fencing around the building. Well, all of that is now a thing of the past.
The American Embassy on June 26 celebrated the completion of major work on its Perimeter Security Project. Ambassador Tuttle, along with other dignitaries from law enforcement and the neighborhood cut ribbons and unveiled a plaque to commemorate the opening.
Speaking at the ceremonies, Ambassador Tuttle said, "The U.S. Embassy has a long history on Grosvenor Square, and we place great importance on being a good neighbor. The redesign we celebrate today has greatly enhanced the security of the Embassy, and of the neighborhood, while vastly improving the appearance of this stately corner of Mayfair."
 Watch the Ambassador's comment
The finished complex includes new landscaping, a larger pedestrian area, and the opening of two new visitor-access pavilions to facilitate entry into the Embassy while reducing congestion and improving the building's appearance.
Watch video clip
The northern pavilion is for individuals seeking visas, while the southern pavilion is for official visitors to the Embassy and American citizens seeking consular services.
Ambassador Tuttle noted, "The Embassy will now be better able to serve the public by providing a more streamlined, and thus quicker, access to the building. These two pavilions will allow visa applicants – and others, British and American residents and citizens – to enter the Embassy without the current long waits, often in inclement weather."
Watch video clip
The perimeter security project was designed and built in close cooperation with law enforcement officials and officials from Westminster City Council to make both the Embassy and the surrounding neighborhood more secure.
Work began in early January, 2007. The U.S. Government paid for the project, which totaled almost $15 million dollars.
The Embassy is extremely grateful to UK law enforcement, local officials, and the Embassy’s neighbors for their patient support and understanding as the project progressed.
The U.S. Embassy has a long and historic connection with Grosvenor Square and places great importance on being a good neighbor.
Time Line
09 May 2008 - Message from Ambassador Tuttle About Improvements at the U.S. Embassy
28 March 2007 - Embassy Update: Perimeter Security Project
27 November 2006 - U.S. Embassy Breaks Ground on Perimeter Security Initiative
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Perimeter Security