WATFORD TOWN CENTRE Waymarking Strategy

Watford Waymarking Strategy 1

Contents

Introduction

1 Summary 53 Delivery 1 Introduction 53 Introduction 2 Design Philosophy 53 Costing 2 Content 54 Digital 3 Strategy Tools 54 Printed 4 Delivery 55 Physical 4 Pilot 56 Local 56 Maintenance & Updates 7 Introduction 57 Project Timeline 7 What is Waymarking? 7 The Study & Team Appendix A 8 Project Aims Pilot 8 Project Approach Appendix B 9 Context 9 Study Area Selected Destinations / Attractors 10 Town Centre 10 Cultural Strategy Appendix C 11 Existing Waymarking Content Mapping 13 Design Philosophy 15 Content 16 Base Mapping 18 Destinations / Attractors 20 Pedestrian Routes 22 Decision Points 24 Districts / Zones 26 Public Transport & Facilities 28 Signage Locations 31 Strategy Tools 32 Digital 34 Printed 35 Physical 46 Local

Watford Waymarking Strategy

Summary

Contents Introduction

Introduction

What is Waymarking? Context Waymarking is the use of signage features to help The focus of the study is on the area considered to be people get from A to B. Each pedestrian journey includes the ‘town centre’ (shown below), incorporating Watford a series of orientation and navigation ‘moments’. At Junction and Watford High Street Stations, as well as these points, decisions are made in order to influence West Herts College and the south-eastern entrance to and continue the journey. At each of these ‘moments’ Cassiobury Park. we use the information available to us to help make In 2009, a Cultural Strategy was developed for the informed decisions about where to go next. town centre, which aimed to embrace culture in order Waymarking strategies help to establish a coherent to drive regeneration and place-making. The Strategy approach to providing this information so as to ensure recognises the need to provide a coherent approach to the ongoing effectiveness of wayfinding measures. signage to facilitate movement within, to and through the town centre. With Watford playing an important role as focal point for the sub-region, pedestrian movement Benefits of Effective Waymarking to and from public transport infrastructure and car parks is of the upmost importance. →→ Reducing vehicular traffic levels through increased adoption of walking; →→ Promoting active travel and healthy lifestyles; →→ Increasing footfall, supporting local businesses; N →→ Increased opportunities for social interaction; and →→ Providing opportunities to discover hidden local features, attractions and amenities.

The Study JMP Consultants Ltd (JMP) was commissioned by Watford Borough Council in October 2011 to produce a Waymarking Strategy for Watford’s town centre, in order to support the framework of improvements identified in the Watford Town Centre Cultural Strategy. The project has two aspects; the design and delivery of two signs at either end of Clarendon Road, and the production of an overarching strategy to guide the delivery of signage within Watford.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 1 Summary

Design Philosophy Content

A set of key design principles have been developed in The strategy itself consists of numerous layers of order to provide a solid foundation for the development information, which are combined to form a complete of Watford’s Waymarking Strategy: picture of the town centre. Reliable Base Mapping Consistent, hierarchical information made available at The base mapping is derived from Ordnance Survey increasing levels of detail at each stage of the journey, map data, adapted to fit the visual style of the strategy. supporting users at critical moments. Destinations / Attractors Flexible The destinations chosen for inclusion were based The strategy should be available in a range of media on research and consultation. The list of destinations in order to maximise applicability and use. All strategy was refined according to perceived importance to elements should be consistent in style and approach. pedestrians, as well as Council objectives. Adaptable Pedestrian Routes The system should be able to expand and adapt over Pedestrian footfall varies throughout the town centre. time, as and when funding becomes available, and/ Route hierarchies within Watford are established or when important changes to the local environment based on land-use, desire-lines, topography and other require updates to the information displayed. factors. Playful Decision Points Smaller-scale hints and features should be used to At particular moments on any pedestrian journey, the supplement traditional waymarking techniques. Public user looks for navigational clues before continuing. realm improvements can be harnessed to embed Decision points are generally found at the point of waymarking elements and to make walking routes convergence of pedestrian routes. recognisable and entertaining. Districts / Zones Universal The Watford Character of Area Study has been used The system should adopt the recognisable language as the basis for the identification of a number of districts created by neighbouring schemes such as Legible to aid navigation. London in order to ensure consistency and continuity. Public Transport & Facilities Stimulating Public transport infrastructure and public facilities are Waymarking features not only provide a directional generally permanent (minimal chance of becoming service, but can also be used to unveil otherwise hidden outdated), and particularly useful for pedestrians. local assets, stimulating regeneration and exploration. Signage Locations Responsive Signage must be positioned in a way that allows for Every element of the system must respond to the them to be seen as part of an integrated, connected needs of different users, throughout the journey. system, corresponding closely to the decision points.

2 Watford Waymarking Strategy Summary

Strategy Tools

The strategy proposes a family of waymarking tools that will help the local and visiting population navigate the streets of Watford. These split into four categories, with each element designed to complement each other. Digital Waymarking is not limited to on-ground signage, but should also be available in advance and on-demand throughout a journey. Two systems are proposed, an online mapping tool and a mobile wayfinding application. Printed Printed media allows for on-demand offline navigation, supporting those without access to the internet or mobile devices. Two printed mapping leaflets are proposed; one looking at the town centre as a whole, and the other catering specifically for the needs of the disabled. Physical Effective on-ground waymarking offers a connected experience for their users. Different stages of the journey require different approaches to signage. Five types of physical sign are proposed for Watford: →→ Monolith; →→ Minilith; →→ Fingerpost; →→ Wall-mounted / Street Nameplate; and →→ Posters. Local Waymarking should not be limited to traditional techniques. Opportunities should be sought to introduce artwork and more innovative approaches. A number of locations for this type of signage have been identified.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 3 Summary

Delivery Pilot

It is not envisaged that the waymarking strategy will Two signs are to be installed as a pilot for the be delivered in a single tranche of works. Rather, it is widespread roll-out of signage as part of the Watford anticipated that individual elements will be delivered as Waymarking Strategy. and when funding becomes available. Form & Location Outline costs have been derived for each waymarking element, based on costs associated with comparable The two pilot signs will be monoliths. The first sign will schemes and projects across the UK. Efforts should be located at Watford Junction Station, directly outside be made to deliver multiple signs at a time to ensure its remodelled entrance. The second sign will be found economies of scale. at the junction of High Street and Clarendon Road, catering for pedestrians walking along the High Street Indicative Costs as well as those using Clarendon Road. Digital Content →→ £25,000 (mapping website) Each sign will include information relating to the →→ £10,000 (mobile application/website) sign’s exact location and district, as well as arrows pointing towards key destinations and surrounding Printed neighbourhoods. →→ £15,000 (cost variable depending on print-run) The mapping panel will be positioned centrally within Physical the signs, and will be overlaid with a grid to enable pedestrians to locate roads and destinations using a →→ £1,500 (artwork per unit) glossary system below. →→ £5,000 (monolith/minilith manufacture per unit) QR codes will provide an additional layer of information, →→ £3,000 (fingerpost manufacture per unit) accessible to those carrying smartphones. →→ £1,500 (wall-mounted / nameplate per unit) Delivery →→ £150 (poster printing per unit) Upon commission, it is anticipated that the signs will be Local delivered in 6-12 weeks, depending on sign complexity and manufacturer workload. →→ Variable depending on scope of work The commissioning of the Watford Junction sign is designed to coincide as far as possible with the improvement works taking place at the station in order to minimise the risk of damage to the sign or its setting. The cost of each sign is anticipated to be around £5,000.

4 Watford Waymarking Strategy Summary

700mm 100mm 2300mm

2200mm DISTRICT NAME Location Name

DISTRICT NAME Destination One Destination Two Destination Three Destination Four DISTRICT NAME Destination One Destination Two Destination Three Destination Four

1800mm NAME LOCATION A

N 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Street Directory Destination Directory Further Information A1 Road One B1 Road Fifteen C1 Road One D1 Road Fifteen A1 Destination One A2 Road Two B2 Road Sixteen C2 Road Two D2 Road Sixteen A2 Destination Two Cycle Routes A3 Road Three B3 Road Seventeen C3 Road Three D3 Road Seventeen A3 Destination Three A4 Road Four B4 Road Eighteen C4 Road Four D4 Road Eighteen A4 Destination Four Intalink A5 Road Five B5 Road Nineteen C5 Road Five D5 Road Nineteen A5 Destination Five A6 Road Six B6 Road Twenty C6 Road Six D6 Road Twenty A6 Destination Six What’s On A7 Road Seven B7 Road Thirty C7 Road Seven D7 Road Thirty A7 Destination Seven A8 Road Eight B8 Road Forty C8 Road Eight D8 Road Forty A8 Destination Eight A9 Road Nine B9 Road Fifty C9 Road Nine D9 Road Fifty A9 Destination Nine A10 Road Ten B10 Road Sixty C10 Road Ten D10 Road Sixty A10 Destination Ten A11 Road Eleven B11 Road Seventy C11 Road Eleven A11 Destination Eleven A12 Road Twelve B12 Road Eighty C12 Road Twelve A12 Destination Twelve A13 Road Thirteen B13 Road Ninety C13 Road Thirteen A13 Destination Thirteen 900mm A14 Road Fourteen B14 Road Hundred C14 Road Fourteen A14 Destination Fourteen If you have any comments or suggestions about signage in Watford, please email: [email protected]

200mm

Pilot Monoliths The pilot signs will be located at Watford Junction Station and on the High Street at its junction with Clarendon Road.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 5

Introduction

Summary Context

What is Waymarking? The Study & Team

Waymarking is the utilisation of signage features JMP Consultants Ltd (JMP) was commissioned by providing clear and consistent information to help Watford Borough Council in October 2011 to produce people get from A to B. Each pedestrian journey a ‘Waymarking Strategy’ for Watford’s town centre, is made up of a series of orientation and navigation in order to support the framework of improvements ‘moments’, at which points decisions are made in order identified in the Watford Town Centre Cultural Strategy. to influence and continue the journey. At each of these From the outset, the design team’s approach has ‘moments’ we use the information available to us to been to see wayfinding from the eyes of urbanists; help make informed decisions about where to go next. embedding a sense of how cities look and function Traditionally, we use on-street furniture such as within all design proposals. Through this approach, fingerposts and street name signs to find out where to they are able to deliver outcomes that are not simply go next, or to confirm a path already being travelled. confined to signage, but also seek to propose This on-street information is often supplemented by environmental improvements that support wayfinding other features such as printed maps, online information in less conventional, but more instinctive ways. studied beforehand or available on smartphones, and The project has two principle elements; the design face-to-face interaction with other people. and delivery of two signage features at either end of In order to provide useful information to street users, Clarendon Road, and the production of an overarching it is important to develop a wayfinding ‘language’ that strategy to guide the delivery of signage within Watford. is readily identifiable and understandable. Waymarking strategies such as this help to establish this ‘language’, developing recognisable, authoritative and trustworthy information; promoting active travel and supporting the discovery of local features.

Benefits of Effective Waymarking →→ Reducing vehicular traffic levels through increased adoption of walking; →→ Promoting active travel and healthy lifestyles; →→ Increasing footfall, supporting local businesses; →→ Increased opportunities for social interaction; and →→ Providing opportunities to discover hidden local features, attractions and amenities.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 7 Introduction

Project Aims Project Approach

The project has a number of core aims: The design team has taken a multi-layered approach to the project, exploring a number of different elements →→ Utilise the opportunity to deliver a gateway at the same time in order to build a detailed picture signage feature at Watford Junction as part of of Watford’s waymarking requirements. Consultation the National Stations Improvement Programme with local groups and the Council has supported and (NSIP); reinforced the contextual analysis undertaken by →→ Support Hertfordshire County Council’s project the team, and workshops with West Herts College to enhance waymarking along Clarendon Road have helped to develop ideas and foster a sense of through the introduction of walking distance ownership amongst the town’s younger users. street nameplates, by providing a major way The strategy supports movement along key pedestrian marking feature at the junction of Clarendon routes, providing gateway features at key arrival/ Road and High Street; departure points, and supporting movement in between →→ Identify opportunities for small scale through smaller-scale interventions. interventions to improve waymarking within The project has been delivered according to the Watford as and when funding becomes following stages: available; and →→ Provide a framework to guide waymarking Understand style, form, content, delivery and maintenance Build up a picture of how people navigate around to ensure a coherent and consistent approach Watford at the moment; where they are travelling to moving forward. and which routes they take.

Identify Use current signage locations, aspirations and a contextual understanding to pinpoint locations for waymarking interventions.

Prescribe Create a catalogue of waymarking features to support pedestrian movement within the town.

Form Develop a distinct style and form for the features, compliant with the needs of all and deliverable by manufacturers.

Deliver Commission the first two signs as pilots for the wider town strategy. Deliver the strategy in order to provide a framework for future interventions.

8 Watford Waymarking Strategy Context

Introduction Design Philosophy

Study Area

The focus of the Waymarking Strategy is the area considered to be the ‘town centre’, including Watford Junction and Watford High Street stations, as well as West Herts College and the south-eastern entrance to Cassiobury Park. Whilst this area is the focus for the study, it has not been seen as an absolute limit; destinations beyond the study boundary have been considered for inclusion, whilst important locations for potential waymarking features beyond the boundary Study Area have also been identified. The area within the orange line is considered to be the ‘town centre’ for the purposes of this study, and is the focus for this strategy.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 9 Context

Town Centre Cultural Strategy

Watford’s historical town centre extends outwards In 2009, a Cultural Strategy was developed for the from the High Street. Clarendon Road, running north- town centre. The Strategy’s aim is to embrace culture south between the High Street and Watford Junction in order to drive regeneration and place-making. It Station is a focus for large-scale office blocks, owing identifies proposals to build upon Watford’s existing to its location between the two major attractors. The cultural base in order to strengthen its offer and support retail core of the town is found around the High Street, the Strategy’s goals. with the Harlequin Centre and Charter Place housing a significant number of retail units, as well as Watford “The aspiration is to create a vibrant, diverse Market. The town’s entertainment cluster is found and distinctive area at the top of Watford’s town towards the northern end of the High Street, at The centre that, through effectively integrating a Parade, with the civic core across Rickmansworth range of facilities, activities and open spaces, Road further to the north. will act as a stimulating focal point for culture and heritage within the borough. The rejuvenated Watford is part of the London commuter belt, which area will deliver key cultural, physical, economic helps to support the local economy, but at the same and social improvements to the town and will time places strain on the area’s public transport make a major contribution to achieving the infrastructure and roads. The town acts as a focal Council’s vision of a family friendly town centre. point for the sub-region, acting as a shopping and The area overall will exploit the best of current entertainment centre for around 500,000 people living provision, whilst successfully blending it with in the surrounding area. As such, movement to and new facilities and open spaces that will be from public transport infrastructure and car parks is of designed and built to deliver a contemporary the upmost importance, whilst encouraging sustainable destination which will meet people’s needs travel to and within the town is a priority for the Council. and aspirations and contribute to the borough’s economic prosperity and civic pride in the town.”

The Strategy recognises the need to provide a coherent approach to signage to facilitate movement within, to and through the town centre. This, coupled with coherent materials and street furniture, could help to bind the town centre together and strengthen the town’s cultural goals.

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Existing Waymarking

The High Street and the area immediately surrounding it is already home to some pedestrian signage. Most of this signage takes one of two forms, finger posts and monolith-style slabs (two widths), and are supported by a number of supplementary signs. Monoliths There are twelve monolith signs located on the High Street. The wider monolith signs feature maps of the High Street and wider area, with key destinations mapped. They also feature background historical information about the town centre. The thinner monolith signs contain directional information to key locations in and around the High Street. In some cases, the information on display is out-of-date; directing pedestrians to destinations that no longer exist or which now operate under different names. In some cases, the signs have suffered damage. Observation suggests that they are generally underused as a result of their limited placement (restricted to the High Street) and relatively small amount of information on display. Fingerposts Five fingerpost signs can be found adjacent to the High Street area. These signposts generally contain a small number of ‘arms’ pointing to key destinations in the area. The number of destinations included range from 1 to 8. These signposts are generally more up-to-date and easy to change, although it is unclear whether or how often the destinations featured on the signposts are altered.

Existing Monoliths (Top) Existing physical signage is focused around the High Street. The information displayed is in some cases out of date or irrelevant. Existing Fingerposts (Bottom) There are around five fingerposts in the town centre. The style of the signage is dated, and the information displayed is rarely updated.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 11 Context

Existing Waymarking

Other Signage In addition to Watford’s existing monoliths and fingerposts, a number of sources of additional information are available elsewhere and online. At key public transport infrastructure (e.g. bus stops, stations), local information maps can be found on display. These maps do not contain detailed information, but generally display local maps of the area with ‘you are here’ markers along with stations and key Council buildings. At Watford Junction Station, an additional sign has been installed displaying similar information to that found on the monoliths in the High Street. This sign is hidden to pedestrians leaving the Station; located behind two post boxes. Watford Borough Council’s ‘LocalView’ mapping function allows visitors to the Council’s website to identify the locations of key services in Watford. This functionality is in addition to the similar results that internet users can obtain from services such as Google Maps. Recently, walking time signs have been added to street nameplates along Clarendon Road. The additions give pedestrians the approximate walking time to key destinations along and at either end of Clarendon Road; supporting footfall along the route. The signs act as a simple and effective way of giving simple information to pedestrians, whilst not adding to the amount of street clutter. Gateway features at either end of the route would support movement along Clarendon Road. It is understood that the roll-out of street nameplate signage is set to continue elsewhere in the town centre, along key routes.

Public Transport Mapping (Top) Watford’s bus stops and train stations are host to some limited wayfinding information. Clarendon Road Nameplates (Bottom) An effective new initiative has seen the introduction of walking times to street nameplates along Clarendon Road.

12 Watford Waymarking Strategy Design Philosophy

Context Content

Effective waymarking strategies must be based on a sound understanding of the local context. At the same time, the development of the strategy helps to shape pedestrian perception of their environment. In order to ensure that Watford’s Waymarking Strategy responds directly to the needs of the end user, as well as catering to the aspirations of the local community and government, a set of key design approaches have been developed.

Reliable Flexible Strong waymarking systems provide consistent The strategy should allow the waymarking system signage elements, and rely on a hierarchical to be supported by different media (in print, digital, organisation of information made available to physical etc) in order to increase its applicability pedestrians in increasing levels of detail at each and use. Mixing waymarking media allows for stage of their journey. In addition, wayfinding greater flexibility in deployment, and can offer full elements must be consistent, understandable, coverage. All elements of the strategy, no matter visible, and support the user at critical moments. the media should be consistent with the overall style and approach adopted elsewhere.

Adaptable Playful Any waymarking system has to be able to expand The orientation of people within the pedestrian and adapt over time, as and when funding become environment should not rely solely on formal available and/or when important changes to the signage, but should also use smaller-scale local environment require the system’s information hints and features that act as prompts within to be updated. It is therefore important to create the surrounding environment. Watford offers a strategy that caters for the long-term, whilst a fantastic range of opportunities to use the choosing a system that allows those responsible built environment to support orientation at key for its maintenance to readily upgrade it, without moments. Public realm improvements, often starting from scratch. relatively inexpensive and low key, can be harnessed to embed wayfinding elements; making walking routes recognisable and interesting.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 13 Concept

Universal Stimulating Over recent years, a number of wayfinding projects A successful waymarking system does not simply have gained great traction and coverage for their connect an origin and a destination, but connects innovative approach and effectiveness. This has people and their environments. One of the led to the emergence of a recognisable language greatest benefits of effective signage is the ability for conventional pedestrian signage. People to unlock otherwise hidden elements of their visiting a town or city are now familiar with this surroundings. Waymarking systems can be used language and are able to rely on it upon arrival in to support wider regeneration as well conservation order to aid their own navigation. The waymarking strategies through the reactivation of buildings, system developed for Watford should not try to streets, shops or entire neighbourhoods. They reinvent the wheel, but should instead seek to can make walking and cycling more attractive use the styles already adopted elsewhere in order options, thereby increasing activity on the street, to provide consistency. At the same time, in-depth improving the potential for social encounters and local understanding should be used to ensure that contributing to the health agenda. waymarking elements feature information that is specific to the locality.

Responsive The waymarking strategy and signage elements must respond to the needs of different users, as well as their changing needs throughout the journey. Information should be organised in a predictable hierarchy; available when needed. The strategy should be inclusive; addressing the needs of the disabled. This inclusivity should not be limited to the physical characteristics of the sign, such as its height, colouring and location, but also in the information available to its users (e.g. appropriate destinations, location of safe crossings etc).

14 Watford Waymarking Strategy Content

Design Philosophy Strategy Tools

Deciding on the content for the waymarking features to be deployed for Watford both physically and virtually requires a considered understanding of the area, as well as existing research and guidance. This understanding is used to build a sequence of layered information, captured individually and combined to provide a robust overall picture of the town centre. The layers of information are gathered from baseline analyses and data collection as well as scheme-related content and designs. Strategy Mapping By constructing the system in this way, it allows for the production of signage that can be altered quickly, as and when required, responding to future developments and changes in requirement. Detailed maps showing this information can be found in Appendix C.

Sign Locations

Public Facilities

Zones / Districts

Decision Points

Pedestrian Routes

Destinations / Attractors

Recoloured Base Map Cartographic Layers The information held within waymarking OS Base Map features is constructed in layers, building a robust overall picture of the town.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 15 Content

Base Mapping

The base map used within the strategy is derived from Ordnance Survey (OS) map data, which incorporates information relating to buildings, roads, pavements, green spaces and water bodies. The original OS mapping has been adapted by the design team in order to create a map that is more easy to understand and to read. Additional layers of information have been applied to the base map in order to build up the picture to be given to pedestrians using the mapping.

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Watford Waymarking Strategy 17 Content

Destinations / Attractors

Selecting and demarcating key attractors is an essential element of the waymarking strategy. A significant proportion of those using the signage will be travelling to a relatively small number of locations. In order to form a list of those destinations that are considered significant enough for inclusion within proposed signage, potential locations were categorised as follows:

→→ Education →→ Transport →→ Culture/Leisure →→ Health →→ Retail/Commerce →→ Open Space →→ Worship →→ Water →→ Local Amenity →→ Active Frontage →→ Visual Landmark

The destinations chosen were based on on-site observations by the design team, as well as desktop research, information from Watford Borough Council, and consultation with local disability groups and Watford Museum. Once a full list had been created, the destinations were assigned a perceived level of ‘pedestrian importance’. Destination importance is taken to be the level of pedestrian footfall that it generates, and/or importance relating to civic function (e.g. police station). Once ranked, all those deemed to be of Very High, High and Medium importance should be eligible for inclusion on any new signage introduced. As new attractions are opened in Watford, and if existing attractions close, the list of destinations / attractions should be updated accordingly, with signage adjusted as appropriate to ensure that they remain as up-to- date as possible, at all times. The full list of destinations/attractors selected for inclusion can be found at Appendix B.

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Watford Waymarking Strategy 19 Content

Pedestrian Routes

Pedestrian footfall varies throughout the town centre. Key routes such as Clarendon Road and the High Street see considerable numbers of pedestrians throughout the day. By determining high footfall routes, decision points can be established, which in turn help to determine appropriate locations for signage. Route hierarchies within Watford are established based on building land-use, desire-lines between footfall attractors and generators, topography and other factors. The long-list of Watford’s destinations/ attractors was used in order to understand likely routes for pedestrians walking around the town centre. Even if a destination has not been deemed eligible for inclusion within the proposed signage, its importance in terms of pedestrian ‘draw’ has been taken into account. Policy ambitions to encourage use of particular walking routes can also be embedded and supported by the wayfinding system. For example, particular routes between the stations and football stadium may be preferred by the Council or Police. These preferred routes can be embedded into signage that is introduced.

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Watford Waymarking Strategy 21 Content

Decision Points

There are particular moments in a journey upon which a pedestrian may look for navigational clues before they continue. These moments are known as decision points. It is at these points that visual clues should be given in order to aid orientation and route finding. Decision points within Watford are generally found at the convergence of significant pedestrian routes. Decisions are also made outside key buildings and attractions. Signage introduced at decision points should be supported by smaller scale information presented to pedestrians travelling between them. This information can provide confirmation to a pedestrian that the particular route they are travelling is correct.

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Watford Waymarking Strategy 23 Content

Districts / Zones

The Watford Character of Area Study produced by the Council identifies a series of distinct areas of differing character within the town. These, as well as the Council’s established Conservation Areas have been used as a basis for identifying broad districts or neighbourhoods. The areas identified should be embedded within future signage in order to help pedestrians identity and relate to each specific area. Where possible, the names used are familiar and commonly used. This allows pedestrians to quickly relate one area to another, assisting in the construction of mental maps to aid navigation.

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Watford Waymarking Strategy 25 Content

Public Transport & Facilities

Public transport infrastructure and public facilities are generally permanent (little chance of becoming out- of-date), and particularly useful for pedestrians. The following items have been and should continue to be included in signage deployed in Watford: →→ Pedestrian crossings; →→ Bus stops; →→ Railway/Underground stations; →→ Taxi ranks; →→ Car parks; and →→ Public toilets. The demarcation of pedestrian crossings is especially useful for the mobility impaired, who are able to use the information to plot accessible walking routes to their destinations. All other features are marked using readily identifiable and universal symbols.

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Watford Waymarking Strategy 27 Content

Signage Locations

The positioning of signage should be carefully considered. Signs should be placed in a way that allows them to be used as part of an integrated, connected system; allowing pedestrians to receive information at the point that they expect it, en-route and without having to divert. Signage should correspond closely to the decision points, pedestrian routes and destinations identified previously. Careful consideration of possible A to B routes, as well as factors such as sightlines have helped to determine the type of signage to be implemented in a particular location. Detailed on-ground positioning will need to take note of other considerations, such as the location of underground infrastructure, building edges, land ownership and property boundaries.

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Watford Waymarking Strategy 29 Content Strategy Tools

Content Delivery

The proposed strategy includes a family of waymarking tools that will help the local and visiting population navigate the streets of Watford. The tools used within the waymarking strategy are not limited to physical, traditional signage, but also look at digital and printed options to further the same goals. The strategy tools are split into four categories: →→ Digital →→ Printed →→ Physical; and →→ Local Each element of the waymarking strategy has been designed to complement or replace the existing tools found within and around the town. Whilst this strategy outlines the product family to be developed, its scope does not go so far as to design the products in detail; this task will need to be undertaken in the future by the Council and its chosen partners. The information shown on the following pages give an indication of the level of information to be included within each element of the system.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 31 Strategy Tools

Digital

Overview Waymarking should not be limited to on-ground signage, delivered at key decision points. It should also be available in advance of a journey, and on-demand throughout it. Digital waymarking systems allow for greater flexibility, are inexpensive to maintain and keep up-to-date, and allow for a greater deal of interactivity and customisation by the end user. Using digital waymarking tools, pedestrians can get personalised information delivered as and when they want it. Online Wayfinding Facility A new interactive, digital wayfinding website should be created. The system would be more accessible than the Council’s existing Localview tool, offering a dedicated facility, linked to by the Council website, along with other town-centre related websites. The mapping available should offer visitors a choice of scales, allowing them to plan their route to Watford by public transport or road (UK scale), focussing in to Watford Borough scale, and further to the town centre and street level. The online facility should allow visitors to download maps in PDF and image format for printing or viewing offline. Printed maps should also be customisable, so that a journey can be plotted and then printed for in- hand usage on the ground. The design of the online facility should relate closely to the other waymarking system elements developed, so as to reinforce the unified language deployed.

Online Mapping (Left) A system similar to Google Maps could be created for Watford. Mobile Mapping (Top Right) A dedicated mobile app or website would enable users to view on-demand wayfinding information. QR Codes (Bottom Right) QR Codes could be used to direct users to additional information available online.

32 Watford Waymarking Strategy Strategy Tools

Digital

Mobile Maps & Apps A mobile-friendly version of the online wayfinding website should be developed. Whilst most smartphones will render web pages accurately, a mobile-only version of the site could be tailored to the small form of mobile devices, allowing easier navigation, map customisation and view. The mobile-friendly website should limit the amount of bandwidth required to view the maps, possibly integrating with existing mapping applications available so as to limit the potential cost to users. An offline waymarking application could be developed for Watford so as to allow users to download all the required mapping and information to allow for offline browsing and user customisation. QR Codes Quick Response Codes (QR Codes) are barcode-like images that can be read by a range of smartphones and electronic devices. The codes can be scanned by users, who can in turn then be directed to a website, or be given text information. In the context of the Waymarking Strategy, QR codes could be located on physical signs to provide an additional layer of information to pedestrians able to scan the codes. A number of QR codes are envisaged, which should be located on signs at strategic positions to provide links to websites hosting information such as: →→ Cycle route mapping; →→ Intalink / public transport mapping/timetabling; and →→ What’s On listings for theatres, venues etc. Additionally, QR codes could be used to link in with mobile apps developed for the town centre in order to provide augmented reality images of Watford’s history, directions to nearby destinations etc.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 33 Strategy Tools

Printed

Overview Printed media mapping allows for on-demand offline navigation, supporting those without access to the internet or mobile-devices. Printed maps can offer an extension to the physical signage deployed, with printed maps freely available at key locations such as train stations and tourist information offices. Mapping can be tailored to particular locations or individuals in order to provide a further level of detail and relevance. Leaflets It is proposed that two principal printed maps are produced: →→ Watford Town Centre; and →→ Accessible Watford. The Town Centre map will offer the same information as found on the static physical signposts, but can be readily and cheaply updated to reflect changes in built form, ownership or tenancy. The printed maps should offer users a list of main destinations, referencing the map and the overlaid grid system. The Accessible Watford mapping should place greater focus on pinpointing accessible routes, dropped kerbs, formal crossings, gentle gradients etc, as well as facilities catering more towards the audience (e.g. leisure centre, computer facilities, council offices).

Printed Maps Printed maps are by no means obsolete. A suite of maps could be printed, catering for different types of offline user.

34 Watford Waymarking Strategy Strategy Tools

Physical

Overview Monolith Effective on-ground waymarking systems offer a The largest of the traditional signage elements should connected experience for their users. The language of be located at strategic locations throughout the town signage should be consistent, and placement should centre. correspond to decision points. Individual signs must The monoliths will be large rectangular shaped slabs work together to facilitate a seamless journey for the protruding upwards from the ground. The signs should pedestrian; from arrival to destination. be positioned in a way that does not cause significant Different stages of the pedestrian journey require obstruction to pedestrian movement, but in a way different approaches to pedestrian signage; signage that ensures they capture as much passing footfall scale should therefore be proportional to decision-point as possible. Surrounding street clutter should be importance. Five types of physical sign are proposed minimised so as to ensure their visibility. for Watford: Each side of the monolith will contain the same →→ Monolith; information sections, although the content will vary according to the direction faced (i.e. if a pedestrian →→ Minilith; views one side of the sign, they will view content →→ Fingerpost; relating to the area directly in front of them, and the other side would show content that lies behind them). →→ Wall-mounted / Nameplate; and Monolith Content (from top) →→ Posters. At the top, each sign will feature a blue coloured band Whilst each element of the system will respond to the so as to attract attention and be easily recognisable individual needs of its setting and location, they will all from a distance. Blue has been chosen so that the work together to provide a coherent wayfinding system signage ties in with the street nameplate signage for the town centre. recently deployed along Clarendon Road. Physical signage should seek not to add to the level Below the coloured band, a section of the sign will of street furniture found within Watford, but should identify the sign’s location (district and location), as well instead aim to replace existing signage where possible. as a series of directional arrows pointing pedestrians Physical signage should be positioned carefully so as towards key local destinations and districts. The not to obstruct the natural flow of pedestrians. directional arrows should relate to the roads found immediately adjacent to the sign so as to avoid confusion. Below this, the next section should host a large detailed map of the wider area, covering a 15 minute walking distance from the sign. The map should be orientated from the position of the pedestrian, so that the top of the map would reflect the area found directly ahead of the person viewing the map. The sign and its location should be towards the bottom of the map, so as to maximise the area ahead that is visible. This method

Watford Waymarking Strategy 35 Strategy Tools

Physical of orientation has been found to be more readily understood by visitors new to an area. To ensure comprehension by all users, a north arrow should be included on the map. The mapping used on the panel should include the following information: →→ Locations of other signposts; →→ Districts / Zones; →→ Public Transport & Facilities; and →→ Destinations / Attractions. Thin grid lines should be overlaid on the map in order to help to segment the map for ease of reference when viewing the street and destination directory directly below. The glossary would include all the roads shown on the map, as well as the key destinations found within it. Where applicable, QR codes could be used to supplement the information displayed on the sign. These codes should be contained within the glossary section, and should be at a scale suitable for allowing them to be read by mobile phones. The final panel should feature the Borough’s logo, as well as any sponsors’ logos (if applicable). A message inviting feedback from pedestrians could be included in order to allow pedestrians to notify the Council of out of date information or any damage to the sign. At the base of the sign, there should be a paving tray used to cover the sign’s foundations. This tray would be easily removable for access to the sign bolts, and could be replaced again without any disturbance to the surrounding paving materials. This system would allow the sign to be removed, relocated or replaced without any disturbance or additional cost.

36 Watford Waymarking Strategy Strategy Tools

Monoliths The monolith signs have been designed with 700mm 100mm reference to best practice in order to ensure ease of use for all. This information has been 2300mm collated from sources including the Department for Transport and the Royal National Institute of 2200mm Blind People. DISTRICT NAME Location Name

DISTRICT NAME Destination One Destination Two Destination Three Destination Four DISTRICT NAME Destination One Destination Two Destination Three Destination Four

1800mm NAME LOCATION A

N 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

200mm

Watford Waymarking Strategy 37 Strategy Tools

Physical

Minilith The minilith signs are smaller versions of the ‘monolith’, containing similar information and positioned in strategic (although quieter) locations around the town centre. Whilst being the same height as the monolith, the minilith is thinner, allowing it to be placed in areas where space is at a premium, or where street clutter is more of an issue. The minilith slabs should be positioned in a way that does not cause significant obstruction to pedestrian movement, but in a way that ensures it captures as much passing footfall as possible. Surrounding street clutter should be minimised so as to ensure its visibility. Each side of the minilith will contain the same information sections, although the content will vary according to the direction faced (i.e. if a pedestrian views one side of the sign, they will view content relating to the area directly in front of them, and the other side would show content that lies behind them). Minilith Content (from top) At the top, each sign will feature a blue coloured band so as to attract attention and be easily recognisable from a distance. Blue has been chosen so that the signage ties in with the street nameplate signage recently deployed along Clarendon Road. Below the coloured band, a section of the sign will identify the sign’s location (district and location), as well as a series of directional arrows pointing pedestrians towards key local destinations and districts. The directional arrows should relate to the roads found immediately adjacent to the sign so as to avoid confusion. The mapping panel should host two maps. The first should display an overview of the wider area, covering a 15 minute walking distance. The overview map would be orientated normally (i.e. north pointing upwards). To ensure comprehension by all users, a north arrow should be included on the map. The map would include

38 Watford Waymarking Strategy Strategy Tools

Miniliths 350mm 100mm The monolith signs have been designed with 2300mm reference to best practice in order to ensure ease of use for all. This information has been 2200mm collated from sources including the Department DISTRICT NAME for Transport and the Royal National Institute of Location Name Blind People.

DISTRICT NAME Destination One Destination Two

1800mm NAME LOCATION

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Street Directory Destination Directory A1 Road One B7 Road Fifteen A1 Destination One A2 Road Two B8 Road Sixteen A2 Destination Two A3 Road Three C1 Road Seventeen A3 Destination Three A4 Road Four C2 Road Eighteen A4 Destination Four A5 Road Five C3 Road Nineteen A5 Destination Five A6 Road Six C4 Road Twenty A6 Destination Six A7 Road Seven C5 Road Thirty A7 Destination Seven A8 Road Eight C6 Road Forty A8 Destination Eight B1 Road Nine C7 Road Fifty B1 Destination Nine B2 Road Ten C8 Road Sixty B2 Destination Ten B3 Road Eleven C9 Road Seventy B3 Destination Eleven B4 Road Twelve C10 Road Eighty B4 Destination Twelve B5 Road Thirteen C11 Road Ninety B5 Destination Thirteen 900mm B6 Road Fourteen C12 Road Hundred B6 Destination Fourteen If you have any comments or suggestions about signage in Watford, please email: [email protected]

200mm

Watford Waymarking Strategy 39 Strategy Tools

Physical the following layers of information: At the base of the sign, there should be a paving tray used to cover the sign’s foundations. This tray would →→ Districts / Zones be easily removable for access to the sign bolts, and →→ Principal Destinations / Attractions (e.g. could be replaced again without any disturbance to the stations, town hall) surrounding paving materials. This system would allow The main map would show, in greater detail, the area the sign to be removed, relocated or replaced without covered by a 10 minute walking distance. The map any disturbance or additional cost. should be orientated from the position of the pedestrian, so that the top of the map would reflect the area found directly ahead of the person viewing the map. The sign and its location should be towards the bottom of the map, so as to maximise the area ahead that is visible. This method of orientation has been found to be more readily understood by visitors new to an area. To ensure comprehension by all users, a north arrow should be included on the map. The mapping used on the panel should include the following information: →→ Locations of other signposts; →→ Districts / Zones; →→ Public Transport & Facilities; and →→ Destinations / Attractions. Thin grid lines should be overlaid on the map in order to help to segment the map for ease of reference when viewing the street and destination directory directly below. The glossary would include all the roads shown on the map, as well as the key destinations found within it. Where applicable, QR codes could be used to supplement the information displayed on the sign. These codes should be contained within the glossary section, and should be at a scale suitable for allowing them to be read by mobile phones. The final panel should feature the Borough’s logo, as well as any sponsors’ logos (if applicable). A message inviting feedback from pedestrians could be included in order to allow pedestrians to notify the Council of out of date information or any damage to the sign.

40 Watford Waymarking Strategy Strategy Tools

Colour Options for Monoliths/Miniliths In developing the design for the monoliths/miniliths, the design team explored a number of colour options for the street furniture and mapping panels. The preferred colour scheme is a combination of dark grey and blue, with shades of grey and orange used elsewhere on the signs. These colours have been used in order to maximise legibility of the signs and maps, and in order to tie in with the Council’s corporate Colour Options colours, and the colours used within the Clarendon Consultation with the Council established a Road street nameplate scheme. preferred colour palette for the monoliths and miniliths that form part of this strategy.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 41 Strategy Tools

Physical

Fingerpost Fingerposts should be deployed to replace the existing mixed-style units where applicable, and to support the introduction of the other signage elements. Fingerposts contain considerably less information than miniliths/miniliths, but are useful to provide confirmation of a direction being travelled by a pedestrian, and to assist at particularly confusing decision points. Fingerposts occupy less space than monoliths/miniliths, but can still contribute to street clutter, so should be positioned carefully and preferably in conjunction with a reduction in surrounding clutter. In order to maximise consistency and to reinforce Watford’s waymarking language, the top of the fingerposts should also be coloured in blue. The arms of the sign should identify a particular destination, as well as a walking and cycling time to reach it. Fingerposts Existing fingerposts should be replaced with up-to-date information, consistent with the style and form introduced as part of the new wayfinding strategy.

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Physical

Wall-mounted / Street-sign Wall-mounted and/or street nameplate signs provide information in addition to the standard street names. The sign should sit beneath the road name, and provide directional and walking time information to key destinations found in either direction. The signs should reflect the style adopted elsewhere within the strategy. The deployment of street signs should be closely tied to the analysis of key walking routes undertaken as part of this strategy.

Street Nameplates A new initiative has seen street nameplates along Clarendon Road supplemented by walking times to destinations found along or at the end of Clarendon Road. Similar schemes should be introduced elsewhere in Watford.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 43 Strategy Tools

Physical

Street Furniture / Lamp Columns Lamp columns are generally seen as boring, obtrusive elements of street furniture, although a necessary evil. An opportunity exists to exploit these elements in order to create linear features that aid the navigation process. Painting, decorating or adding information to lamp columns is a good way of using existing street furniture to further the goals of the waymarking strategy. It is proposed that on key linear routes, such as the High Street or Clarendon Road, the lamp columns be painted to match the waymarking elements found elsewhere in this strategy, and use a contrasting colour to provide information on the direction and distance to key destinations along the route. It is essential that the choice of colour and font provide enough impact so as to draw the attention of passing pedestrians. If possible, the entire lamp column should be painted, although painting the first 3-4m should be enough to be noticed by pedestrians. Opportunities to use other elements of street furniture to the same effect should also be explored. Items such as bus shelters, benches and bins could be used effectively.

Lampposts A simple way to introduce directional information without adding to the level of street clutter is to paint and add existing information to existing lampposts.

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Physical

Posters Watford is host to a large number of information poster boards, around town but also at stations and bus stops. Large versions of the map used on the monoliths/ miniliths could be printed, centred on the town centre and applied to any vacant or available poster board. The poster could host a large detailed map of the wider area, covering a 15 minute walking distance. The map should be orientated normally (i.e. north pointing upwards), and centred on the town centre. To ensure comprehension by all users, a north arrow should be included on the map. The panel should include the following information: →→ Locations of Other Signage; →→ Districts / Zones; →→ Public Transport & Facilities; and →→ Destinations / Attractions. Thin grid lines should be used to help to segment the map for ease of reference when viewing the street and destination glossary. The glossary would include all the roads shown on the map, as well as the key destinations found within it.

Existing Mapping Posters Existing posters used to display wayfinding information are basic and out of date. Poster boards at stations and bus stops could be used to display town centre mapping in the same style and form as that used on other new signage delivered as a result of the waymarking strategy.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 45 Strategy Tools

Local

Overview While traditional signage provides the opportunity for consistent information available at strategic locations, waymarking should not be limited to these traditional techniques. There are opportunities to introduce artwork and other more innovative wayfinding techniques to aid navigation. Landmark features help create a sense of place, as well as contributing to pedestrians’ mental maps of an area; providing a reference point for their journeys. The opportunity should be taken to consult with the local community in order to generate ideas for innovative waymarking features at strategic locations within the town centre. A number of locations for these more bespoke approaches have been identified. The design team has chosen to elaborate on ideas for two of these locations in particular.

Waymarking Beyond Traditional Signage There are other ways of displaying directional information, beyond traditional signage techniques. Artwork could be used to aid wayfinding in an innovative and enjoyable way.

46 Watford Waymarking Strategy Strategy Tools

Watford Waymarking Strategy 47 Strategy Tools

Local

Clarendon Road / Beechen Grove The junction of Clarendon Road and Beechen Grove is a critical decision point on the journey between Watford Junction Station and the High Street. At present, it features an underused pedestrian subway and an at-grade pedestrian crossing. Pedestrian use of the Beechen Grove entrance to Charter Place is currently limited, and there is an opportunity to increase its use through the direction of pedestrians along Beechen Grove at this junction. A large blank facade can be found on the south eastern corner of the junction, and is visible for much of Clarendon Road when travelling south from the station. There is an opportunity here to introduce a piece of artwork or writing to indicate locational information, visible from a distance. A longer term vision could see the reworking of Clarendon Road, and this junction in particular, in order to increase the amount of space available to pedestrians. The removal of guard rails, the underpass, and the reclaiming of pedestrian space at each of the corners would make it easier for pedestrians to traverse the junction, and make the route more attractive overall.

48 Watford Waymarking Strategy Strategy Tools

Watford Waymarking Strategy 49 Strategy Tools

Local

Market Street / High Street Watford’s original Market Place, once the heart of the town, now lies relatively redundant. The junction of High Street and Market Street is innocuous, with no sense of Market Street’s offer visible to pedestrians on the High Street. In this area, space is at a premium, and street clutter should be avoided where possible. Opportunities exist to use roof-top features to promote movement along Market Street in order to spread the strength of High Street westwards. Through a bespoke wayfinding solution, the Market Street route could be promoted as a principle route towards West Watford and Vicarage Road.

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Watford Waymarking Strategy 51

Delivery

Strategy Tools

Introduction Costing

The production of the individual elements that make up It is not envisaged that the waymarking strategy will be Watford’s Waymarking Strategy require the creation of delivered in a single tranche of works. It is anticipated a series of resources, to be developed and adapted as that individual elements will be delivered as and when the strategy continues to be in place. It may be suitable funding becomes available; possibly linked to planning for the resources to be shared with other organisations obligations relating to new developments in the town within Watford in order to ensure the consistency of centre. future waymarking schemes or elements provided by Outline costs have been derived for each waymarking parties outside Watford Borough Council. element, based on costs associated with comparable The resources required in order to deliver the schemes and projects around the UK. The costs waymarking strategy include: outlined are indicative only, and should be investigated further as and when projects are approved. It should →→ Contextual information; be noted that the costs associated with the delivery →→ Signage content; of physical signage are reduced proportionately as →→ Mapping / Cartography; order size increases. Efforts should be made to deliver multiple signs at a time to ensure economies of scale →→ Graphic design, including signage panels, and efficiency. lettering etc; →→ Detailed design of physical signage; →→ Artwork and materials for bespoke local signage; and →→ Construction of physical signage.

The delivery of waymarking resources should consider the underlying concept and principles behind the strategy at all times: →→ Universal; →→ Reliable; →→ Adaptable; →→ Flexible; →→ Playful; →→ Stimulating; and →→ Responsive.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 53 Delivery

Digital Printed

Overview Overview The design and delivery of a bespoke online and The design and production of a suite of printed maps. mobile mapping platform to allow online and offline Two printed maps are envisaged initially; a town centre navigation of Watford. guide and an accessibility guide. Tasks Tasks →→ Scoping of system content; →→ Concept development; →→ Information architecture; →→ Information architecture; →→ Content generation / Artworking; →→ Content generation / Artworking; →→ Downloadable mapping versions; →→ Graphic design; →→ User testing; →→ Stakeholder consultation; →→ Web/Mobile Design; →→ Production / Printing; and →→ Web/Mobile Development; →→ Distribution. →→ Bug checking; and Indicative Timescale →→ Hosting / Launch. →→ 3 months (maps can be developed side-by- Indicative Timescale side as considerable information will be shared between the two). →→ 3 months (mapping website) →→ 2 months (mobile version of mapping website) Indicative Costs →→ £3,000 (graphic design / artworking) Indicative Costs →→ £15,000 (cost will vary depending on print-run) →→ £25,000 (mapping website) →→ £10,000 (mobile version) Possible Funding Sources It is anticipated that funding for the printed element Possible Funding Sources of the waymarking strategy would come directly from It is anticipated that funding for the digital element of the Council. Disability groups within Watford, such as the waymarking strategy would come directly from the Shopmobility and Disability Watford may also show an Council. Alternatively, organisations such as Watford interest in being involved with the development and Business Club, Wenta, and Watford Chamber of delivery of the ‘Accessible Watford’ mapping. Commerce could be approached in order to gauge their interest in supporting town centre commerce.

54 Watford Waymarking Strategy Delivery

Physical

Overview Possible Funding Sources The design and delivery of an integrated system It is anticipated that funding for the physical elements of physical signage within Watford, incorporating of the waymarking strategy would be delivered through monoliths, miniliths, finger-posts, wall-mounted/street the planning process, as S106 contributions etc. An nameplate signage, lamp column enriching and additional revenue stream for consideration would be production of posters. sponsorship, whereby businesses could have their logo attached to the system, or the location of their Tasks business identified as a destination, in return for a fee →→ Scoping of system content; that goes towards the signage itself. →→ Information architecture; →→ Content generation / Artworking; →→ Design review; →→ Graphic Design; →→ Visualisations / Photomontages; →→ Placement research / Utilities enquiries; →→ Foundation design; →→ Detailed design drawings; →→ Tender documentation and assessment; →→ Manufacturing review; and →→ Signage installation.

Indicative Timescale →→ 3 months (preparation) →→ 2 months (fabrication & installation)

Indicative Costs →→ £1,000 (artworking per sign) →→ £5,000 (monolith/minilith manufacture per unit) →→ £3,000 (fingerpost manufacturing per unit) →→ £1,500 (wall-mounted manufacture per unit) →→ £100-500 (replacement monolith/minilith panel) →→ £150 (poster printing/installation – per unit)

Watford Waymarking Strategy 55 Delivery

Local Maintenance & Updates

Overview Ongoing maintenance would be required to ensure that the waymarking elements remain up to date and fit for The design and installation of bespoke signage purpose. Signage content is likely to change regularly features at strategic locations within the town centre. to some degree. The strategy has been devised in a Tasks way that promotes the inclusion of information that is unlikely to change regularly, but nonetheless, some →→ Idea generation; major developments are likely to occur (e.g. Croxley →→ Feature concept design; Rail Link, Watford Health Campus). →→ Detailed artworking; It is suggested that waymarking content be reviewed every six months to ensure validity. Significant changes →→ Stakeholder consultation; will require alterations to base mapping and other →→ Materials acquisition; information. Discussions should be held amongst the Council office responsible for wayfinding, as well → Landowner permissions; → as any consultants involved in the project in order →→ Installation / manufacture. to determine the significance of any changes, and the resultant cost of having to make alterations. The Indicative Timescale monoliths and miniliths have been designed with this in mind, and can be easily updated if necessary. →→ Variable depending on ideas developed. A regular maintenance regime should be put in place Indicative Costs to ensure all signage is of the highest quality at all times. The existing signage within the town centre has →→ Variable depending on ideas developed. been allowed to decay over time, causing pedestrians to lose faith in the accuracy of information on display Possible Funding Sources and lowering the overall quality of streetsape. The It is anticipated that funding for the physical elements manufacturer responsible for the construction of of the waymarking strategy would be delivered through waymarking features should be asked to provide a the planning process, as S106 contributions etc. recommended maintenance regime, and this should be followed where possible.

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Project Timeline

The development of initial waymarking resources has already begun as part of this strategy, and the commission to deliver the first two signage features. Funding is in place for the first two physical signage elements, to be located at Watford Junction Station and the junction of High Street and Clarendon Road. The intention is for these two signage features, at key arrival and decision points within the town, will support pedestrian movement between the town centre and train station, along Clarendon Road. It is expected that a manufacturer for these pilot signs will be selected in March, with the signs commissioned by the end of the month. Manufacturing lead-in times range from 6-12 weeks, and so it is expected that the signs will be ready for installation by the end of May 2012. During manufacture and following the installation of the pilot signs, the development of waymarking resources should continue, with digital and printed resources available as early as possible to support the physical installations. There are no set deadlines for the production and delivery of further elements of the waymarking strategy.

Watford Waymarking Strategy 57

Appendix A Pilot

Introduction

Two signs are to be installed as a pilot for the N widespread roll-out of signage as part of the Watford Waymarking Strategy. The two wayfinding features are to be positioned at either end of Clarendon Road, one outside the remodelled Watford Junction Station, and the other at the junction of High Street and Clarendon Road. The intention is for the two signs to reinforce the newly introduced pedestrian signage along Clarendon Road. The new signs supplement road nameplates to give pedestrians walking time estimates to key destinations along and at either end of Clarendon Road. The design team was tasked with designing the signage to be implemented at either end of Clarendon Road. The following pages detail the signage form and content. Should the pilot scheme be deemed a success, it is anticipated that similar signs will be introduced throughout Watford, to correspond to the signage location plan established as part of this strategy.

Pilot Sign Locations The pilot signs are to be located at either end of Clarendon Road.

Watford Waymarking Strategy Appendix A Pilot

Form & Location

The two pilot signs will be monoliths; large rectangular shaped signs protruding upwards from the pavement. As the pilot locations are key strategic positions for signage, larger signs are appropriate, giving wider mapping coverage and increased visibility. The Watford Junction sign will be located directly outside the repositioned entrance to the station (the two current entrances are to be replaced by a single central entrance as part of the station improvement works). The High Street/Clarendon Road sign will be positioned to face north-south along High Street, at the bottom of Clarendon Road. As a result, the sign will cater for pedestrians travelling along High Street, as well as those reaching the foot of Clarendon Road. The exact position of both signs will have to take into account the location of underground utilities, land ownership issues, property boundaries etc.

Monolith Mock-up This figure presents our vision for the pilot monoliths. The signs will include directions to key destinations, as well as a map and glossary providing detailed information to pedestrians.

60 Watford Waymarking Strategy Appendix A Pilot

Content TOWN CENTRE Watford Junction Station Destination Panel TOWN CENTRE Police Station The uppermost panel, immediately below the band of Magistrates Court colour at the top of the frame, features the name of High Street the district in which the sign is situated, as well as the LOWER HIGH STREET actual location of the sign. Below that, key destinations The Broadway Shops and areas are included, along with directional arrows Harlequin Shopping Centre to aid orientation. The destinations chosen for inclusion on this panel are some of the most commonly visited destinations in those directions, within a 10-15 minute TOWN CENTRE walking distance. Watford Junction Station The content of this panel for the two pilot signs is outlined to the right. As both signs will show information on both TOWN CENTRE Police Station sides, two destination panels must be developed for Magistrates Court each sign. High Street NASCOT LOWER HIGH STREET Map Panel County Court The Broadway Shops Holiday Inn Express Harlequin Shopping Centre The focal point for the pilot signs will be the map, situated in the central portion of the sign. A single map is proposed, with a 15min walking radius centred on the sign’s location. TOWN CENTRE High Street / Clarendon Road The destinations featured on the mapping panels will be the same across the signs, although the portion of LOWER HIGH STREET map shown may vary depending on the area covered Palace Theatre Magistrates Court by the walking radius. Police Station Watford Junction Station A sample of the map to be used on the signs can be NORTH WATFORD found overleaf. Palace Theatre Magistrates Court Police Station The map used on each side of each sign will be Watford Junction Station orientated to reflect the direction faced by the person viewing the map. Bespoke artwork must therefore be developed for each side of the sign. TOWN CENTRE High Street / Clarendon Road

TOWN CENTRE Town Hall Leisure Centre West Herts College Cassiobury Park NORTH WATFORD Palace Theatre Magistrates Court Police Station Watford Junction Station

Watford Waymarking Strategy 61

N Appendix A Pilot

Delivery Monitoring Performance

Design In order to assess the performance of the pilot signs, it is proposed that a monitoring programme be put The design of the pilot signage is well underway. in place. This programme should look to review the Following consultation with the Council and pilot scheme in two ways; the first should invite users stakeholders, the destinations for inclusion within to contribute feedback relating to the pilot, whilst the the signage have been finalised. Similarly, the colour second should actively survey users. scheme and form of the signage has been refined, and will be passed on to the manufacturer upon Feedback commission. The pilot signs should include a message inviting Manufacture comments from signage users. Users should be invited to leave their comments or suggestions relating to the The commission for the manufacture of the two pilot sign at a particular website, email address or telephone signs will be awarded based on a competitive quoting number. process to ensure best value. Upon commission and the handover of all artwork, it Surveys is anticipated that the signs will be delivered in 6-12 In order to support the feedback aspect of the weeks, depending on sign complexity and manufacturer assessment, surveys should be carried out in order workload. to actively question pedestrians about how they are using the signage and in order to identify strengths, Installation weaknesses and areas for future improvement. The commissioning of the Watford Junction sign The results of the assessment process should be fed is designed to coincide as far as possible with the back to the steering group leading the deployment of improvement works at the station. As part of these the scheme to ensure comments are embedded in improvements, it is anticipated that foundations will future iterations. be laid for the sign, thereby allowing the works to be undertaken before the sign is in place, but allowing the sign to be installed with minimal disruption to the relandscaped area once the works have been completed. Costing The cost for each sign is anticipated to be around £5,000. Economies of scale dictate that larger orders would result in lower per unit prices, so future signs could be delivered for lower cost. Maintenance An ongoing maintenance regime will be developed with the help of the signage manufacturer to ensure that the new street furniture is fit for purpose for as long as possible.

64 Watford Waymarking Strategy Appendix B Selected Destinations / Attractors

Name Location Category Flow Importance Watford Leisure Centre Peace Prospect Culture/Leisure V. High Watford Football Club Vicarage Road Culture/Leisure V. High Watford Grammar School for Girls Lady’s Close Education V. High Watford Grammar School for Boys Richmond Road Education V. High West Herts College Hempstead Road Education V. High Town Hall Hempstead Road Local Amenity V. High Harlequin Shops - Retail/Commerce V. High Charter Place Shops Charter Place Retail/Commerce V.High Watford Market Charter Place Retail/Commerce V.High High Street - Retail/Commerce V.High The Parade - Retail/Commerce V. High TESCO Lower High Street Retail/Commerce V. High Sainsbury’s Albert Road South Retail/Commerce V. High Watford Junction Station Station Road Transport V. High Watford High Street Station Lower High Street Transport V. High Watford Museum Lower High Street Culture/Leisure High Palace Theatre Clarendon Road Culture/Leisure High Watford Colosseum Rickmansworth Rd Culture/Leisure High Police Station Shady Lane Local Amenity High Magistrates Court Clarendon Road Local Amenity High Watford Library Hempstead Road Local Amenity High Cassiobury Park - Open Space High Palace Car Park Beechen Grove Transport High Sutton Car Park Sutton Road Transport High Queens Car Park Beechen Grove Transport High Gade Car Park Rosslyn Road Transport High St Michael and All Angels Church Mildred Avenue Worship High Beechen Grove Baptist Church Clarendon Road Worship High Watford Mosque Cambridge Road Worship High St Mary’s Church Church Street Worship High Holy Rood Catholic Church Exchange Road Worship High Jobcentre Plus Exchange Road Local Amenity High Town Centre Community Office High Street Local Amenity High Watford and District Synagogue Nascot Road Worship High County Court Station Road Local Amenity High

Watford Waymarking Strategy Appendix B Selected Destinations / Attractors

Name Location Category Flow Importance Registry Office Hempstead Road Local Amenity High The Broadway Shops Queens Road Retail/Commerce Medium North Watford Shops St Albans Road Retail/Commerce Medium Pumphouse Theatre & Arts Centre Local Board Road Culture/Leisure Medium The Peace Hospice Peace Drive Landmark Medium Derby Road Baptist Church Derby Road Worship Medium St Thomas United Reformed Church Langley Road Worship Medium St John the Evangelist Sutton Road Worship Medium Travelodge Watford Central Market Street Culture/Leisure Medium Watford Fire Station & Fire Brigade Museum Lower High Street Local Amenity Medium St Andrew’s Church Church Road Worship Medium Christ Church St Albans Road Worship Medium Watford Shopmobility Church Street Local Amenity Medium Kings Car Park Beechen Grove Transport Medium Sri Guru Singh Savha Gurdwara King’s Close Worship Medium Citizen’s Advice Bureau St Mary’s Local Amenity Medium Derby Road Skatepark Derby Road Local Amenity Medium Church Street Car Park Church Street Transport Medium Al Zahra Centre Fearnley Street Worship Medium Trinity Methodist Church Whippendell Road Worship Medium St James Road Baptist Church St James Road Worship Medium The Wellspring Church Centre Wellspring Way Worship Medium Holiday Inn Express London Watford St Albans Road Culture/Leisure Medium Best Western White House Hotel Upton Road Culture/Leisure Medium Jurys Inn Hotel Clarendon Road Culture/Leisure Medium Park Inn Hotel St Albans Rd Culture/Leisure Medium Premier Inn Hotel Water Lane Culture/Leisure Medium Elim Pentecostal Church St Albans Road Worship Medium

Watford Waymarking Strategy Appendix C Content Mapping

Index

Base Map Destinations / Attractors Pedestrian Routes Decision Points Districts / Zones Signage Locations

Watford Waymarking Strategy Watford Waymarking Strategy for Watford Borough Council by JMP Consultants Ltd