Lights out in Piccadilly for the longest period since the Blitz

Piccadilly lights were switched off this morning as London's iconic landmark prepares for major redevelopment.

The switch off which is expected to be completed in the Autumn will be off for the longest period since the Blitz.

A static advertising banner set to cover the space until then.

The current screens will be replaced with a single screen of the same size and shape which will be one of the highest resolution LED displays of its size in the world.

Six advertisers will share the fully responsive and interactive new screen, taking advantage of its capacity for live video streaming, lifestyle updates such as weather and sports results, and real time social media feeds.

Computer generated images have been released of what Piccadilly Circus will look like once the work is completed.