// BBC UK NEWS — CRONACA
Barbican Conservatory offers 2,000 free cuttings
The venue is preparing for its multi-million pound restoration
The Barbican Conservatory is offering free plant cuttings to the public, ahead of its three-year closure for restoration in January.
More than 2,000 plant cuttings will be available to people who have booked online on Wednesday, with two more opportunities to collect plants scheduled later in the year.
The Grade II listed arts venue is to undergo a £231m overhaul, including the development of a climate-controlled habitat to support plant health.
Barbican chief operating officer Dr Philippa Simpson said the conservatory restoration was focused on "creating a healthier home for plants and enabling more people to enjoy the environment and the activities it will host".
Opened in 1984, the multi-storey glasshouse is home to 800 species of plant.
Monstera, ficus, and purple-and-green tradescantia are among the cuttings that will be shared with the public, in collaboration with Wayward Plants Reuse Centre.
The first plant adoption event is being held on Wednesday. Two more events are planned for 13 September and 2 December and must be booked in advance via the Barbican website.
Each event will include information about about the Conservatory's architectural history and the development of its plant collection.
Under the redevelopment plans, there will be a new lift and staircase in the conservatory to allow public access to raised balconies. It will also be relandscaped to encourage optimal plant-growing conditions, and the building will be made fully accessible.