Heatherwick Studio has revealed the first details of its plan to develop a disused coal yard in King’s Cross into a large-scale public space and mixed-use destination.

The Coal Drops buildings at King’s Cross station in London were built in the 1850s to receive freight arriving from the north of England by train. They were later used for warehousing and light industry before being abandoned in the last century.

In a short statement on the Heatherwick Studio website, the firm said: “Coal Drops Yard is a project that will secure the long-term future of the historic Coal Drops buildings.

“The proposals will establish Coal Drops Yard as a public space and retail destination, with 100,000sq ft (9,300sq m) of shopping, eating and drinking and events space.”

The studio also released a single rendering of the design, which shows a new bridge and rooftop extension integrated with the existing brick arches.

The Heatherwick-designed space is just one component of the wider regeneration of King’s Cross, which is being developed by the King’s Cross Central Limited Partnership (KCCLP) in conjunction with property developer Argent.

KCCLP has been quick to praise the Heatherwick plans. In a statement, the organisation said: “With its canal-side location, Victorian architecture and beautiful new public squares as a backdrop, Coal Drops Yard is set to become a unique new shopping destination.

"The cobbled streets and Victorian brick arches will house quirky boutiques, restaurants, galleries, music venues and bars. Shops and cafés will spill out onto the streets and public spaces here. Free from traffic, the area will be buzzing with street life, food stalls and more.”