GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK
gowkthrapple signage, interpretation + arts framework
prepared by
Urban Design Futures Urban Design, Planning + Landscape [email protected] www.urbandesignfutures.co.uk
in association with:-
James Carter MSc FAHI Communication, Interpretation and Training + David Wilson Environmental Artist + Glidden Design Branded Environments + Corporate Identity Specialists
Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE contents SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK
contents
Executive Summary ...... 1 1.00 Introduction...... 2 - purpose of study...... 2 - methodology...... 2 2.00 Development Context...... 3 3.00 Audit ...... 6 - directional signage...... 6 - street and placename signage...... 8 - other signage...... 10 - interpretation + artworks...... 12 4.00 Framework Proposals...... 14 - general approach...... 14 - main elements...... 15 - interpretation...... 27 5.00 Cost Estimates...... 29 Appendices 1. Consultees...... 31 2. Indicative Total Costs...... 32
aerial view circa 2001/5
Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK
executive summary
Purpose of the Framework Audit of Existing Signage + Artworks collaboration with the local community. However, the theme of ‘the cuckoo’ The report presents a framework for the design and installation of signage, The main fi ndings from the audit of existing signage were:- has been adopted for the purposes of illustration within the report as it interpretation and arts opportunities for the Gowkthrapple area. relates to the derivation pf the placename ‘Gowkthrapple ‘ The cuckoo is also • a lack of vehicular directional signage to Gowkthrapple regarded as the ‘Envoy of Spring’ - a symbol of regeneration/ new life which The framework forms part of a Strategic Masterplan for Gowkthrapple, • a lack of pedestrian/ cyclist directional signage connecting Gowkthrapple echoes the current redevelopment aspirations for the area. which is being led by North Lanarkshire Council, and a wider greenspace with nearby facilities/ places of interest regeneration initiative that is being led by the Glasgow and Clyde Valley • a lack of streetname signage in all areas except Heathfi eld The core elements of the kit of parts are stone pillars, undulating stone walls, Green Network Partnership as part of its portfolio of ‘stronger community’ • a lack of placename signage to denote entry into Gowkthrapple and fruit trees and proprietary signage which has been customised to incorporate projects. Garrion Business Park the chosen ‘branding’ theme. • an overprovision of non-statutory information signage The principal aims of the framework are:- The design of the stone pillars is based on the existing stone pillar sculptures There are a range of artworks in the area of variable quality. Most successful at the entrance to Smith Avenue. It is envisaged that the proposed pillars • to aid orientation and improve the legibility of the area. were considered to be the pillar sculptures at the entrance to Smith Avenue will be topped with a variety of different sculpted features which will be • to strengthen the identity of the area. and the ‘grafi tti boards’ in Castlehill Community Park both of which were the subject of managed community involvement - ideally involving local • to strengthen linkages with surrounding settlements + places of interest. carried out in close collaboration with the local communuity. school children - to further add to their relevance and distinctiveness. Wall • to assist in making greenspace ‘fi t for purpose’. construction could also form the basis of a skills training programme for local Framework Proposals schoolchildren and the unemployed. Further implied aims are the promotion of community engagement and The general approach has been to keep the framework as simple and as reinforcement of the proposals contained in the Gowkthrapple Strategic straightforward as possible and to develop it in a way that will not only be of The fruit trees are intended to soften the effect of the walling, whilst also Materplan and Greenspace and Green Network Study. relevance to the local community but will actively promote and encourage referencing the fruit orchards that used to be a common feature in this part of additional community engagement. the Clyde Valley. It is intended that the framework will guide the development of signage and interpretation as Gowkthrapple evolves over the coming years and that it Rather than providing a fi xed set of proposals the framework proposes a Pedestrian/ cyclist directional signage has been designed to comply with will establish a quality standard that can be used as a basis for work with more fl exible kit of parts the components of which can be combined in a the requirements of the Land Reform ( Scotland) Act 2003 and the Scottish developers, planners and the local community. variety of different ways, developed to incorporate community produced Outdoor Access Code. Stainless steel signs are proposed for urban elements and expanded or contracted in quantity to meet budgetary locations and timber signs for rural locations. In both cases the proprietary Methodology constraints. sign systems will incorporate customised elements to continue the ‘branding’ The framework has been prepared by a combination of desk top research, theme. site survey and discussion with public agencies and stakeholder groups It is intended that the kit of parts will provide a framework to guide the including Garrion Peoples Housing Cooperative, Castlehill Primary School, development of signage and interpretation as Gowkthrapple evolves over the Budget costs have been provided on a unit cost basis in keeping with the Clyde Valley High, the Gowkthrapple Developing Projects Group and NLC coming years and establish a quality standard that can be used as a basis ‘kit of parts’ approach for the framework, which would enable the number of offi cials. for work with developers, planners and the local community. elements ultimately selected and their complexity to vary as required.
It is envisaged that key elements of the framework will be developed through The kit of parts is linked by a common theme which is incorporated as further, more intensive community engagement including schools projects a ‘branding’ feature in all elements to create a stronger sense of place and events as outlined in the main body of the report. / community identity. The fi nal choice of theme would be made in
Page 1 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK introduction
1.00 introduction
Purpose of Study The purpose of this report is to present a framework for the design The principal policy documents used to inform the framework have been:- and installation of signage, interpretation and arts opportunities for the Gowkthrapple area. • Gowkthrapple Strategic Masterplan • Gowkthrapple Greenspace and Green Network Study The framework forms part of a Strategic Masterplan for Gowkthrapple, • Southern Area Local Plan which is being led by North Lanarkshire Council, and a wider greenspace • North Lanarkshire Local Plan (Consultation Draft) regeneration initiative that is being led by the Glasgow and Clyde Valley • North Lanarkshire Council Public Access Strategy (GCV) Green Network Partnership as part of its portfolio of ‘stronger community’ projects. Best practice guidance including the Paths for All Partnership ‘ Advisory Signage for Outdoor Access : Good Practice Principles’ and relevant The principal aims of the framework are:- exemplar projects were referred to throughout the study and are referenced where appropriate in the text. • to aid orientation and improve the legibility of the area. • to strengthen the identity of the area. A series of site visits were carried out during January - March 2009 to carry • to strengthen linkages with surrounding settlements + places of interest. out a full audit of existing signage, interpretation and arts provisions and to • to assist in making greenspace ‘fi t for purpose’. identify current problems and opportunities. Information gathering meetings were also held with Ironside Farrar, Garrion Peoples Housing Cooperative, Further implied aims which have underpinned all aspects of the framework Castlehill Primary School, Clyde Valley High and NLC offi cials during this have been the promotion of community engagement and reinforcement same period. of the proposals contained in the Gowkthrapple Strategic Materplan and Greenspace and Green Network Study. Preliminary framework proposals were discussed with Garrion Peoples Housing Cooperative, Castlehill Primary School, Clyde Valley High, the It is intended that the framework will guide the development of signage and Gowkthrapple Developing Projects Group and NLC offi cials. fi g. 1 Location Plan interpretation as Gowkthrapple evolves over the coming years and that it will establish a quality standard that can be used as a basis for work with Throughout the project regular meetings were also held with representatives developers, planners and the local community. from the client and principal stakeholder bodies:-
The framework has been prepared by a multi disciplinary team led by Lyndsay Noble North Lanarkshire Council urban design, planning and landscape consultants Urban Design Futures and James Kerr GCV Green Network Partnership including interpretation consultant James Carter, environmental artist David Sue Harris Scottish Government Housing Investment Division Wilson and signage and wayfaring specialists Glidden Design. It is envisaged that key elements of the framework will be developed through Methodology further, more intensive community engagement including schools projects The framework has been prepared by a combination of desk top research, and events as outlined in the main body of the report. site survey and discussion with public agencies and stakeholder groups.
Page 2 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK development context
2.00 development context
Gowkthrapple lies approximately 2 miles to the south of Wishaw on the B754. The preferred scenario as currently being developed from the Masterplan to It is one of six defi ned communities in the area, the others being Waterloo, achieve this vision includes :- Overtown, Netherton, Greenhead and Pather. It has a declining population • an increase in the number of homes from 460 currently to 1,040 by 2014 which currently stands at around 800 and is identifi ed in the Index of Multiple Deprivation as one of the most deprived communities in North Lanarkshire. • an increase in the number of residents from 800 to 2,080 over the same period; Whilst much of the land to the north, east and west of Gowkthrapple is urbanized, the land to the south, in strong contrast, is almost exclusively • an increase in the school roll from 58-72 to 120-150; rural, sloping down to the River Clyde and containing signifi cant areas of mature woodland, Cambusnethan House and the Clyde Walkway. • the provision of a facilities development ( The Hub ) to include shop(s), offi ces, community space and transport interchange. The area around Gowkthrapple was designated as a Community Growth Area in the 2006 Glasgow and Clyde Valley Structure Plan Alteration and, • the provision of new parkland, greenspace and a recreational sports subsequently, in the 2007 North Lanarkshire Local Plan (Consultative Draft). facility. In November 2006 the GCV Green Network Partnership Board approved support for a Green Network regeneration project at Gowkthrapple as part of The scenario retains and upgrades Garrion Business Park, but introduces its ‘stronger communities’ portfolio. the possibility of relocating Castlehill Primary School to the Clyde Valley High School campus, which would be redeveloped to accommodate it as part of a In early 2007 a regeneration Strategic Masterplan for Gowkthrapple new Community Campus which would also provide a library, pre-school and was produced in consultation with the local community (Gowkthrapple community facilities. fi g. 2 2007 North Lanarkshire Local Plan. . Regeneration Group) and key public agencies. This was followed by a Greenspace and Green Network Study in 2008. Vechicular access to the area is from a new loop road network with access points onto Castlehill Road at the existing Allershaw Road and Smith Avenue The Masterplan proposes the following vision for Gowkthrapple: junctions. The road network incorporates a central ‘street’ / green network route running through the area to connect with key features including the ‘‘A vibrant small community that offers a mix of housing types, tenure existing Community Park and the proposed Hub development. and neighbourhoods clustered around a core of community services with good local access to services, schools and on-site convenience New housing is located in 4 distinct neighbourhood units: Smiths Park, shops. Woodside Park, Heathfi eld Park phase 2 and Castlehill Park containing a Housing will offer a wider mix of housing type and styles with mixture of social rented, affordable and private sector housing. signifi cantly greater numbers of private sector owner-occupied housing but including design neutral affordable housing and social rented/ More specifi cally public art and signage improvement - linking the shared equity housing in differing proportions within each of four new opportunities for public art to signage and route furniture and providing neighbourhoods. interpretive elements to link experience with the Clyde Valley - forms one of Community facilities will be retained and enhanced, developed around the 20 core projects that are proposed in the Gowkthrapple Greenspace and a new cluster at the main access junction on Castlehill Road with Green Network Study. reinvestment in education provision.’’ Planning approval has recently been obtained for the The Hub complex fi g. 3 Strategic Masterplan for Gowkthrapple which will form a main focal point within the area. Page 3 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK development context
PAINTED PAINTED PLASTERBOARD PLASTERBOARD ON INTERNAL WALLS INTERNAL WALL COLOURS TO MA BRICKS OUTSIDE ALLOW THREE COLOURS
C
ELEVATION 2 B
ELEVATION 4 PRECAST PANELS WITH RELIEFED PATTERN TO RECEPTION DESK
INTERNAL STREET SLABS A
GREEN ROOF EXTERIOR VIEW FROM SMITH AVENUE TO ENTRANCE INTERIOR VIEW FROM RECEPTION ALONG COVERED STREET ELEVATION 3
D D ELEVATION 2
ROOF LIGHT
SARNAFIL ROOF
(Refer to Elevation 4 for elevational arrangement for this section)
A BC
ELEVATION 1
ROOF PLAN DIAGRAM NTS SMITH AVENUE main entrance
ELEVATION 3
coloured render
ELEVATION 1
local shop
Security gate behind - refer to pedestrian plans for location/extent gate
ELEVATION 4
NOTES - CLIENT - 10.11.08 AS -- F Car park fencing detail updated. Roof height reduced. Window positions, numbers updated to suit current plans. Green Sedum roof Double glazed timber hard- 100mm precast panels with Reclaimed brick - stackbonded Materials Key GARRION PEOPLE'S HOUSING CO-OPERATIVE 30.09.08 RT AS by Bauder or similar wood frame, assume 50% reliefed pattern E Elevations updated - precast panels reduced in number, PROJECT - Roof plan updated - green roof changed to aluminium openable, tilt and turn in 3 No. standards colours by Ibstock or equal standing seam roof. 3 No. colours NEW COMMUNITY HUB BUILDING 11.08.08 JB - D Elevations updated - precast panels reduced in width, windows reduced in width and height and opening SMITH AVENUE, GOWKTHRAPPLE sections added. Section/Roof plan updated to indicate simplified roof form over covered street/greenspace block DO NOT SCALE FROM DRAWING DRAWING - 26.08.08 JB - C Elevations updated - extent of precast reduced, Trespa replaced with reclaimed brickwork, plasterboard finish to covered street walls ALL DIMENSIONS TO BE CHECKED ON SITE PRIOR TO THE START OF ANY WORK AND ANY DISCREPANCIES NOTIFIED IN WRITING. PROPOSED ELEVATIONS/ROOF PLAN Elevations updated with new cladding materials, 26.06.08 JB - B Dark brick by Ibstock or equal DATE - BY - SCALE - REV - mezzanine added to section REFER TO ENGINEERS' DRAWINGS FOR ALL STRUCTURAL, 01.06.08 JB - A HEATING, LIGHTING, POWER, EXTERNAL AND UNDERGROUND DRAINAGE AND VENTILATION INFORMATION 20.03.08 JB 1-100@ A1 TOP FLOOR, MERCAT BUILDING, 26 GALLOWGATE, GLASGOW, G1 5AB, U JOB NO - CHKD - DRWG NO - TELEPHONE +44(0)141 552 3001 FAX +44(0)141 552 388 DATE - BY - CHKD - REV - REVISION NOTE - ALL BUILDING WORKS TO COMPLY IN ALL RESPECTS TO F CURRENT BUILDING STANDARDS FOR COUNTRY IN WHICH SITE EMAIL [email protected] IS LOCATED. 0801 - (EL)01 WEB WWW.COLLECTIVEARCHITECTURE.CO.U
b Roof plan a security controlled new layby d vehicular access to 4 spaces parking C b shop entrance pedestrian gate B d
small upstand to deliveries planting A st. Shop a 128sqm b c wc.
Office d a 100sqm Plant Room st. 5.5sqm printers tea point Meeting 1 shw 18sqm
admin f 20sqm Female tea point Staff Int 1 wcs Flexible workspace reception Int 2 office View from Smith Avenue towards main entrance pedestrian 8sqm 8sqm Male 67sqm entrance store store st.
Dis WC + notice boards/ baby change sloped area fixed seating f covered 'street' 130 sqm
rear service/ entrance from car a rooflight over park d c c Multi-purpose f 65sqm Staff Servery existing timber fencing WC 16sqm st Cafe st. 55sqm d st Meeting 2 e 40sqm e
low level brick wall A
b d B
bles C turning area
from ca a sloped area d a View from open greenspace by new road d a
ar distance
low level timber fencing d rear parking area Landscaped area as proposed (22)spaces) within Greenspace Report
000mm cle
25, b
high level timber fencing c d
hig c fe
line of overhead cables
c
View from Smith Avenue to Southerly elevation
N
View towards external space and 'covered street'
NOTES - CLIENT - 30.09.08 RT AS G Bondary wall and fence altered. Roof light removed. Street flooring spec. updated. Trees removed from parking area. Timber pergola removed/ GARRION PEOPLE'S HOUSING CO-OPERATIVE Windows and doors updated to reflect elevations, 11.08.08 JB - F external information added EXTERNAL WORKS KEY PROJECT - Vehicular security gate and delivery lay-by altered to 26.07.08 JB - E meet Secured by design requirements a. Tarmac NEW COMMUNITY HUB BUILDING doors and windows added and altered generally to SMITH AVENUE, GOWKTHRAPPLE 26.06.08 JB - D match elevations b. Block paviours DRAWING - Vehicular entrance altered further to Planning/Roads DO NOT SCALE FROM DRAWING 02.06.08 JB - C comments, mezzanine floor level added, c. Turf Roof light removed from offices. Office windows 19.05.08 VH JB B Car Parking numbers increased from 10 to 22, bus stop 31.10.08 AS - H ALL DIMENSIONS TO BE CHECKED ON SITE PRIOR TO THE START omitted, stairs added to office mezzanine, cafe and rationalised to suit office accomodation. Mezzanine level OF ANY WORK AND ANY DISCREPANCIES NOTIFIED IN WRITING. EXISTINGPROPOSED SITE SITE PLAN PLAN multi-purpose area relocated, outdoor landscaping removed for cost saving. Walk in storage added. Shower d. Planting DATE - BY - SCALE - REV - reduced. added as per spec. Public toilets updated. Plant room Floor area reduced generally, car parking and service added. Shop accomodation re-arranged. High level e. Marshalls Concrete Paving Slabs, REFER TO ENGINEERS' DRAWINGS FOR ALL STRUCTURAL, 18.04.08 JB - A fencing updated at boundary. Shop/ Flexible workspace - - - - -entrance added to rear of building, ramp and stepped Conservation smooth ground HEATING, LIGHTING, POWER, EXTERNAL AND UNDERGROUND floor level omitted, storage and tea point added to offices areas updated. WC added for staff servery. Indicative DRAINAGE AND VENTILATION INFORMATION and meeting rooms, flexible workspace added in place of structural guidelines added. Admin & reception split with 20.03.08 JB 1-200@ A1 TOP FLOOR, MERCAT BUILDING, 26 GALLOWGATE, GLASGOW, G1 5 glazed screen. Windows reduced to cafe and admin. meeting room f Marshalls Concrete Paving Slabs, JOB NO - CHKD - DRWG NO - TELEPHONE +44(0)141 552 3001 FAX +44(0)141 55 DATE - BY - CHKD - REV - REVISION NOTE - DATE - BY - CHKD - REV - REVISION NOTE - Conservation smooth ground ALL BUILDING WORKS TO COMPLY IN ALL RESPECTS TO H Buff CURRENT BUILDING STANDARDS FOR COUNTRY IN WHICH SITE EMAIL INFO@COLLECTIVEARCHITECTURE IS LOCATED. 0801 - (EX)01(PL)02 - WEB WWW.COLLECTIVEARCHITECTURE
fi g. 4 - 6 Greenspace and Green Network Study 2008 fi g. 7 + 8 Hub proposals
Page 4 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK development context
fi g.9 abstract from Gowkthrapple Strategic Roads Report . showing proposals as current April 2009
Page 5 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK audit - directional signage
3.00 audit directional signage
There is an acute shortage of directional signage relating to Gowkthrapple.
Road Signage The advance local direction signs on the east and west legs of the Main Street / Castlehill Road junction in Wishaw include Gowkthrapple in their list of destinations together with a distance indicator of 1 mile and direction arrows to Castlehill Road.
There are no directional signs to Gowkthrapple from either of the eastern approaches through Overtown.
There are interpretive signs at each of the four existing cul de sac access points on Castlehill Road that incorporate the name ‘Gowkthrapple’ and include directional guidance to the streets that are accessed from each junction. Whilst the main road names on these signs are suffi ciently sized to be visible to passing vehicles the ‘leading to ‘ road names that appear on some of the signs are smaller and diffi cult to read.
There are two standard ‘Allershaw Road’ plate signs with directional arrows on either side of the lamp post on the opposite side of Castelhill Road / Allershaw Road junction and one standard ‘ Garrison Business Park’ directional sign approximately 50m to the west of the Castlehill Road/ Smith Avenue junction. There is no directional signage for Garrison Business Park for eastbound traffi c.
Path Signage The only directional signage intended specifi cally for pedestrians is associated with the Clyde Walkway from where there are three signs to Gowkthrapple via the tracks and paths leading through the Clyde Valley. There are however no reciprocal signs to the Clyde Walkway from the Recommendations Gowkthrapple area. • additional vehicular directional signs to Gowkthrapple at key junc- There are no pedestrian directional signs from Gowkthrapple to any other tions on the surrounding road network, particularly from the east. surrounding facilities and/ or settlements and none from the surrounding • additional vehicular directional signs to Garrison Business Park settlements to Gowkthrapple • additional pedestrian and cyclist directional signs to surrounding facilities/ places of interest etc fi gs. 10 - 16 Existing directional signage Page 6 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK audit - directional signage
fi g. 17
Page 7 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK audit - street and placename signage
street and placename signage
There is an acute shortage of directional signage relating to Gowkthrapple.
Streetnaming There is a severe shortage of street name signs over much of the area at present, possibly as a result of some of these being either stolen or offi cially removed as part of the regeneration works. No street name signs whatsoever exist for Allershaw Place, Birkshaw Place and Birkshaw Brae and this in combination with a complex housing layout and a distinct lack of easy to read house/ block numbering must make orientation for those not familiar with the area - visitors and delivery vehicles - extremely diffi cult.
The streetname signs which do exist in this part of Gowkthrapple are in poor condition and often inappropriately located, contributing signifi cantly to the generally run down feel to the area.
In stark contrast, there is almost an overprovision of street name signage in the Heathfi eld area some of which has been attractively integrated within the design of bespoke railings which characterise this neighbourhood. There is however also a proliferation of smaller wall and pole mounted signage providing more detailed information on house numbering which veers towards street clutter.
Placenaming There is no place name signage to indicate entry into Gowkthrapple. As a result it is relatively easy to drive along Castlehill Road without being aware of its existence. The only signs which do contain the Gowkthrapple name are the bespoke ‘cuckoo’ interpretation signs at the entry to each of the existing housing access culs de sac, at least two of which will be surplus to requirements once the new road layout is complete. Recommendations There is no placename / entry signage for Garrion Business Park. • additional street name signage in all areas other than Heathfi eld There is some ad-hoc signage for facilities in the area - namely the snack bar • more legible system of house/ fl at numbering in all areas other than Heathfi eld. and the Priory Stables to the south of Castlehill Road - some of which is in • entry signage to Gowkthrapple and Garrison Business Park very poor condition. • signage should have a unifying theme/ style
fi gs. 18 - 24 Existing street and place name signage
Page 8 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK audit - street and placename signage
fi g.25
Page 9 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK audit - other signage
other signage
There is a signifi cant amount of other signage which results in largely unnecessary street clutter
DOT Highway Safety Much of this is provided in accordance with the statutory rules as defi ned in The Traffi c Signs Regulations and General Directions Order 2002 ( + 2005 Amendment ) as statutorily required.
There is what is considered to be an excessive number of advisory ‘Twenty’s Plenty’ signs which are of questionable benefi t without the support of traffi c calming design measures.
NLC Information There are what appears to be a large number of CCTV information signs which result in a signifi cant amount of street clutter and arguably could be seen as stigmatising the area.
The majority of these signs are lamppost mounted and are in reasonable condition.
Bus Stops All bus stops on the south side of Castlehill Road have standard shelters. The shelters do not contain any advertising or other bespoke features. The majority have been subject of vandalism but they remain in reasonable condition.
Miscellaneous There are a number of ‘No Ball Game’ signs in the Heathfi eld area.
There are two timber waymarker signs with green and yellow markings on Recommendations the tracks on the south side of Castlehill Road the signifi cance of which have not been established. • keep number of non statutory information signs to a minimum • develop opportunities for bus stop enhancement ( eg. time tables, seating repairs )
fi gs. 26 - 32 Existing other signage
Page 10 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK audit - other signage
fi g. 33
Page 11 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK audit - interpretation + artworks
interpretation + artworks
There is evidence of a range of art and interpretation projects which vary considerably in quality, relevance and suitability for the area.
Pillar Sculpture - entrance to Smith Avenue The pillars are simply and neatly designed in natural stone and are topped by bridge castings to echo the history of the area, providing a distinctive entrance feature to Smith Avenue. They were designed by environmental artist Jimmy Ritchie and were the product of extensive consultation with local schools and residents groups. The pillars are in good condition and have not been subject to any vandalism
Cuckoo Signage - entrances to Allershaw Road, Caplaw Place, Linghope Place and Smith Avenue Cast signs featuring a cuckoo symbol as part of a suit of interpretive signage that extends to Overton and Pather, providing a repeating theme along Castlehill Road. Whilst the cuckoo is of direct relevance to the Gowkthrapple ( a ‘Gowk’ being Scottish for a cuckoo ) the signs appear somewhat over elaborate in design and contain some directional information that is diffi cult to read. At least two of the signs will no longer be required once the road network in the area has changed. The signs are in good condition and have not been subject to any vandalism.
World Destination Sculpture - adjacent to Castlehill Community Park The sculpture is located at a key junction in the local path network. It consists of a series of stone balls representing compass points to various global desitnations which are identifi ed by stainless steel arrows. The sculptor is not known. Relevance to the area is considered negligible. The sculpture has been subject to signifi cant vandalism and elements are missing.
‘Grafi tti’ Boards - Castlehill Community Garden Recommendations The boards are attractive and brightly coloured. They were produced by the pupils of Castlehill Primary School. The boards are in a poor state of repair • development of pillar sculpture theme. but have not been subject to any vandalism. • greater emphasis on local relevance/ community engagement ( eg grafi tti boards or similar by local schoolchildren ). Railings • removal of world destination sculpture. There are a variety of rail designs which characterise different • build on existing work + ideas. neighbourhoods in the area fi gs 34 - 40 Existing artworks Page 12 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK audit - interpretation + artworks
fi g. 41
Page 13 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - general approach
4.00 framework proposals general approach
The main aims of the signage interpretation and arts framework for With regard to community relevance we have, in the fi rst instance, aimed Our approach with regard to community engagement is tied very closely to Gowkthrapple are :- to produce proposals that take account of the physical characteristics of the our views on interpretation. We consider that the role of any interpretation area - existing and proposed linkages with surrounding settlements, facilities projects as part of regeneration work in Gowkthrapple should be to help • to aid orientation and improve the legibility of the area and places of interest and the redevelopment proposals as contained in the strengthen community identity and to encourage community engagement • to strengthen the identity of the area Strategic Masterplan and Greenspace and Green Network Study. with the place. This is very different from interpretation’s more conventional • to strengthen linkages with surrounding settlements + places of interest. function as a way of explaining a heritage site to visitors, which is not • to assist in making greenspace ‘fi t for purpose’. We are also proposing the development of a relevant ‘theme’ which is considered to be of relevance in this context. To this end we are proposing incorporated as a ‘branding’ feature in all elements of the framework to a process driven approach to interpretation which will include managed The general approach that has been adopted in order to achieve these create a stronger sense of place / community identity. We would wish for community involvement in the detailed development and implementation of aims has been underpinned by two key principles: to keep the framework as the fi nal choice of theme to be made in collaboration with the local the signage, interpretation and arts framework. This will manifest itself in simple and as straightforward as possible and to develop it in a way that will community as outlined below but for the purposes of this report we have a number of ways including schools projects and competitions, community not only be of relevance to the local community but will actively promote and illustrated this approach within the framework proposals by use of ‘the events and, possibly, the direct supervised involvement of schoolchildren, encourage additional community involvement. cuckoo’ as our theme for the project. This strikes us as being appropriate the umemployed and other local residents in construction of some of the for a variety of reasons. Although ‘Gowk’ has a number of derivations one of framework components. With regard to keeping it simple we have aimed to only provide signs for these is ‘cuckoo’ and ‘thrapple’ is throat - which suggests the call song of the which there is a specifi c need ( to aid orientation or strengthen connections cukoo. The cuckoo was regarded as the ‘Envoy of Spring’ which brought with Rather than providing a fi xed set of proposals the framework proposes a with adjacent settlements/ facilities/ places of interest etc ) and to avoid it anticipation of the summer ahead full of warmth, growth and greenery - a more fl exible kit of parts the components of which can be combined in a the use of signage where it is not required. Signs which do not fulfi l an symbol of regeneration/ new life which echoes the current redevelopment variety of different ways, developed to incorporate community produced important purpose are a major cause of street clutter and should be avoided. aspirations for Gowkthrapple. It is also a bird that has the ability to change elements and expanded or contracted in quantity to meet budgetary Residents and visitors should not have to rely exclusively on signage to be and adapt to make the most of its situation. The cuckoo is already featured constraints. able to fi nd their way around an area and it is considered that the proposed in the bespoke feature signage at the entry to the existing culs de sac entries introduction of a more easily comprehensible street layout will be of into Gowkthrapple and, although we are proposing the removal of these It is intended that the kit of parts will guide the development of signage and considerable benefi t in this respect. signs, its adoption as a theme for the project would enable us to build on this interpretation as Gowkthrapple evolves over the coming years and establish existing idea. a quality standard that can be used as a basis for work with developers, Keeping it simple also means that we have deliberately avoided the use of planners and the local community. bespoke or over elaborate signage regarding the principal purpose of signs Finally with regard to community relevance we have taken the view that the as being to discreetly provide information and not to make a strong artistic identity of Gowkthrapple as a whole should be paramount over the identities statement. We are proposing instead the use of customised proprietary of each of the neighbourhoods that are proposed in the Strategic Masterplan. singage systems that are economical, robust and easy to replace. This was done after some consideration as we appreciate that there could be a number of benefi ts in focusing on the individual neighbourhood identities As far as artwork is concerned keeping it simple means that that this element ( not least for the developers of each of these areas ). However we came to of our proposals is generally incorporated in the design of functional items - the strong conclusion that these benefi ts were signifi cantly outweighed by entrance features, seating, walling etc rather than being provided as stand the need to establish a unifying identity for the whole area. A weakening of alone ‘works of art’. community identity is already evident in Heathfi eld where the majority of the residents are said to regard themselves as being part of Overton rather than Gowkthrapple and we did not wish to see this trend extended.
Page 14 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
main elements
The framework provides a coordinated kit of parts for signage, interpretation The design of directional signage for pedestrians and cyclist and horse and artworks all of which are linked by a common theme, which for the riders will be governed by the Land Reform ( Scotland) Act 2003 and the purposes of illustration is ‘the cuckoo’. Scottish Outdoor Access Code with no stipulation being made on the type of user that they are intended for. The design of these signs will also vary The main elements of this kit of parts are stone pillars, undulating stone according to their location. In urban locations ( ie within Gowkthrapple ) walls, fruit trees and proprietary signage which has been customised to a proprietary stainless steel signage system such as the Ollerton M3 by incorporate the chosen ‘branding’ theme. Marshalls is proposed, with customised fi nials, fi ngers and base surround incorporating the ‘cuckoo’ branding. In rural locations ( ie to the south of The design of the stone pillars is based on the existing stone pillar sculptures Castlehill Road ) proprietary timber signs is proposed, again with customised at the entrance to Smith Avenue. Just as with the existing pillars which fi ngers and incorporating both ‘cuckoo’ branding and the Clyde Walkway logo incorporate a casting of Garrion Bridge, it is envisaged that the proposed as appropriate. pillars will be topped with a variety of different sculpted features. Again as with the existing pillars, it is intended that these features will be the The use of other non statutory standard information signage including cctv subject of managed community involvement - ideally involving local school survelliance and Twenty’s Plenty signs should be kept to a minimum. children - to further add to their relevance and distinctiveness. These feature elements could be added to the pillars at any time after the pillars had been Options and opportunities for use of the above kit of parts elements are constructed and could, even, be replaced, at say 5 yearly intervals, by shown over the following pages. It should be stressed however that these new feature elements that were produced by subsequent intakes of school illustrations are indicative only and that the fi nal combination and content of children. Wall construction could also form the basis of a skills training elements will evolve through an ongoing process of engagement with the programme for local schoolchildren and the unemployed. local community.
The fruit trees are intended to soften the effect of the walling, whilst also referencing the fruit orchards that used to be a common feature in this part of the Clyde Valley.
The pillars, together with their undulating walls and fruit trees will form the basis of entrance and node point features, seating and key connecting walls and provide a series of strong linking elements to brand and characterise throughout the area.
The cuckoo motif could, in consultation with local community groups, also be used as the basis for the etched patterning which it is understood may be incorporated in the external wall panels of The Hub development.
The design of statutory directional and warning signage for vehicles will be fi g. 42 Main Elements governed by The Traffi c Signs Regulations and General Directions Order 2002 ( and subsequent 2005 Amendment )
Page 15 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
opportunities for community involvement through schools competitions for design of sculptural toppings ( which could be replaced at, say, 5 yearly intervals ) + skills training programme for wall construction.
fi g. 43 kit of parts - main elements for possible use at main entry into Gowkthrapple from new roundabout main entry point - on Castlehill Road. pillars walls + trees walling + pillars custom made by David Wilson indicative proposals
Page 16 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
possible incorporation of bespoke place name signage within stone walls and/ or pillars - cast metal or stone carved by David Wilson
fi g. 44 kit of parts - main elements main entry point - pillars walls + trees indicative proposals
Page 17 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
smaller scale use of core pillar + wall- ing elements to mark entry into housing neighbourhoods. Garrion Business Park etc.
fi g. 45 kit of parts - main elements secondary entry points - pillars, walls and trees indicative proposals
Page 18 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
for possible use at key focal points such as The Hub or Community Garden.
additional opportunities for community involvement in provision of seating text inserts
fi g. 46 kit of parts - main elements node points - seating etc indicative proposals
Page 19 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
possible use of cast branding logo to customise pedestrian guardrails + other items of street furniture
fi g. 47 kit of parts - main elements street furniture - guardrails etc indicative proposals
Page 20 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
fi g. 48 kit of parts - main elements signage - bespoke elements indicative proposals
Page 21 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
urban rural
Fingers: Fully stove-enamelled, inc. graphics Structure: Solid oak post and fi nger with routed or powder coated with refl ective or burnt Gowkthrapple brand. white vinyl graphics Info panel: Inset Burlington slate or similar, with Size: Panels - 1000mm x 175mm routed or carved text with white painted infi ll Typface: Trebruchet MS Regular
Colours: destinations within Gowkthrapple: black / grey on white background
destinations outwith Gowkthrapple: fi g. 49 white on green background kit of parts - main elements signage - urban + rural sign types indicative proposals
Page 22 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
Column: Satin stainless steel
Finial: Stainless steel or cast metal
Fingers: Fullly stove enamalled inc. graphics or powder coated with refl ective white vinyl graphics
Size: Pole - 2200mm to 1st panel Panels -1000mm x 175mm
fi g. 50 kit of parts - main elements signage - urban directional indicative proposals
Page 23 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
option a option b
Structure: Tubular brushed stainless steel frame 76mm diameter. 1200mm wide x 750mm high
Top panel: Option b only - Brushed stainless steel with etched branding fi g. 51 kit of parts - main elements Info panel: Single or double-sided fully stove- enamelled, inc. graphics or powder signage - coated with refl ective white vinyl graphics urban streetname indicative proposals
Page 24 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
fi g.52 kit of parts - main elements signage - urban sign family indicative proposals
Page 25 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - main elements
fi g. 53 framework proposals plan ( indicative locations )
Page 26 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - interpretation
interpretation
Interpretation projects in Gowkthrapple should have the following broad aims: It is also vital that community involvement should evolve gradually, so that local residents feel genuinely engaged and empowered. For this to happen, • to engage local residents in the regeneration programme; any interpretation work should be linked to a community engagement plan • to encourage local residents to see the area as a good place to live; developed in partnership with the Council’s Community Engagement Team. • to strengthen their sense of belonging to the place; • to help develop an identity for Gowkthrapple. Work with the wider community is likely to be a relatively slow process that will need skilled facilitators, and that should begin without any pre- Media such as panels, leafl ets and exhibitions will not be relevant here. conceptions about its outcomes. Starting on wider community engagement Instead, interpretation will need to concentrate on events that encourage by providing a list of things of interest about Gowkthrapple, and expecting residents to take an interest in the place, meet each other, and help to shape people to immediately share an enthusiasm for them, is likely to be counter- proposed developments. productive. Instead, initial meetings might ask for people’s views on what is good about Gowkthrapple, and may well need to cope with negative Examples of projects in which the community might be involved, and that responses before discussions can be developed into more positive territory. could take the area’s character and history as inspirations, include: School-based projects should be planned as part of this programme, and • A school-based project looking at the cuckoo as the basis of the village’s should integrate with work in the wider community. There are already positive name, and as a symbol of spring and re-birth. The project should cross precedents for projects at Castlehill Primary School, where pupils developed several curriculum areas, and could involve pupils in producing artwork murals inspired by their perspectives on Gowkthrapple. The Head Teacher is to decorate the school, developing writing and images to be posted on a enthusiastic about future possibilities. website, and devising music and performance events. • Community-based events that give people an opportunity to meet each Potential work stages other and to explore the local network of paths. Small-scale events might It is not possible to give defi nite project proposals or schedules for such a take place at times such as Easter or Hallowe’en; depending on their fl uid process, but a tentative outline of community engagement work might success an annual event similar to a gala day could be developed. This include: might take the form of a picnic called ‘The Gowk’s Feast’. • Arts projects that would explore the area’s heritage, and use it as an 1. Initial open meeting, with specifi c invitations to existing community inspiration for decorations in the Hub community centre, or for short texts groups. to be incorporated in plaques or carved lettering on seating and shelters. This meeting might include: Interpretation as process, not product • Asking for opinions about what people value about Gowkthrapple. The most important aspects of interpretation work in Gowkthrapple will be • Presenting the existing regeneration proposals, and explaining what will the process through which the community is involved, and the intangible be happening. benefi ts of community engagement and identity. Actual physical outputs are • Introducing opportunities for community input to aspects of the less important. regeneration work. fi g 54 Kintra signets Arts projects that interpret the area’s heritage and are based on local consultation can provide inspiration for structures and motifs within regeneration works. These ‘signets’ provide badges for individual tenements in Govan. Project by artist Matt Baker. Page 27 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK framework proposals - interpretation
2. Community-based events that would: There are a number of stories through which these themes can be Introduce aspects of the area’s heritage that can contribute to its identity. approached, and that might serve as a basis for schools projects and Invite contributions to regeneration projects. This might include arts work to community arts schemes. However, the choice of which to work with will need feed into designs for The Hub, perhaps for decorative panels in the central to be a part of the community engagement process. The stories are: covered street; or motifs to be used on street furniture and signs. Work towards a shared vision for the area’s future. This should include • The cuckoo as the ‘Envoy of Spring’, bringing with it anticipation of practical aspects such as its visual identity, and aspirations for its summer, warmth, growth and greenery, and as a symbol of regeneration, characteristics as a place to live. renewal, and the ability to change. This is the concept that underpins the artwork proposals in this document. If community-based projects can 3. An annual project based in Castlehill Primary School for the next fi ve share at least some of this inspiration, it would help to gain acceptance years, beginning with a whole-school scheme based on the topic of the and understanding of the proposed installations. cuckoo as ‘The Envoy of Spring’, and continuing in future years with projects • The history of the Pather Iron and Steel Works, and particularly the story for just one or two year groups looking at a particular aspect of the area’s of the local entrepreneurs who established it and who apparently called heritage. themselves ‘the twelve apostles’. • How the Clyde valley was a desirable place to build large houses in the 4. A programme of small-scale events, developed with local groups. The past, such as Cambusneathan House. events should: • The history of the village as the centre of Smiths alarm clock production throughout the 1950s and 60s. This history has some controversial • Provide activities at key times of year such as Easter, the summer elements, since the factory used radioactive paint that has been holidays and Hallowe’en. implicated in possible contamination issues. However, this should not • Be themed around aspects of local heritage. preclude it as a part of the area’s history that modern residents should know of and think about. Indeed, it can offer powerful message about the 5. Build on smaller events to develop an annual community celebration. effects of past industry on future generations, and about the possibility of The ‘Gowk’s Feast’ picnic might be a basis for this. renewal.
Potential themes fi g. 55 Moonraking Interpretation work is normally based around a series of ‘themes’ – ideas Community-based events might evolve into an elaborate annual with which the audience can engage, and that can be supported or illustrated celebration based on the area’s heritage, like the Moonraking Festival in Slaithwaite, Yorkshire. through various stories or facts. For Gowkthrapple the following themes would be appropriate, but it is important that these are seen as broad ‘ways of thinking’, not as ideas that should be communicated from the outset of any project:
1. This is a great place to live, and it’s easy to explore 2. Gowkthrapple and its neighbouring towns were built on vision, ingenuity and skill: the same factors can give it new life.
Page 28 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE cost estimates SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK
5.00 cost estimates
Budget costs have been provided on a unit cost basis in keeping with the ‘kit of parts’ approach for the framework, which would enable the number of elements ultimately selected and their complexity to vary as required.
All costs include for production, supply and installation of the units although they are liable to variation according to the number of units involved in any one phase of the works.
The costs do not include for professional assistance in the various forms of community engagement that it is hoped will accompany and support the works. This would be charged at £425.00 per person per day.
to be added:- cost estimates
Notes
1. All stonework costs are based on bespoke design + construction in locally sourced natural stone by David Wilson 2. Urban signage costs based on the use of a proprietary signage system as per Marshalls Marine Grade 316L Stainless Steel Systems inclusive of stainless steel post, with bespoke fi nial and engraved surface trim plate, powder coated steel fi ngers with exterior quality vinyl lettering and graphics. The unit cost includes for manufacture and supply together with a notional installation cost of £200.00 per unit. All bespoke elements are based on designs by Glidden Design. 3. Rural signage costs based on use of proprietary timber signage system as per Fitzpatrick- Woolmer, naturally fi nished oak fi nger pole signage with bespoke routed logo. The unit cost inclides for manufacture and supply together with a notional installation cost of £200.00 per unit. All bespoke elements are based on designs by Glidden Design. 4. Fruit tree costs are based on the use of specimen Malus, Pyrus and Prunus.
Page 29 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE appendicies SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK
appendicies
Page 30 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE appendicies SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK
Appendix 1 consultees
Project Steering Group
Lyndsay Noble North Lanarkshire Council James Kerr GCV Green Network Partnership Sue Harris Scottish Government Housing Investment Division
Consultees
North Lanarkshire Council Kate Bryson Regeneration Services John Duffy Access Manager Leanne Pollock Community Engagement Offi cer
Garrion Peoples Housing Cooperative John Mullholland Director Cathy Brien Deputy Director
Castlehill Primary School Tina Milligan Headteacher
Gowkthrapple Developing Projects Group Draft framework proposals were presented to and discussed with this group at a meeting held at Allershaw Tower on 7 April 2009.
Other Julian Farrar Ironside Farrar
Page 31 Urban Design Futures May 2009 GOWKTHRAPPLE appendicies SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK
Appendix 2 indicative total costs
The total cost estimate is intended to provide an indication of the order of magnitude costs likely to be incurred in providing the signage, interpretation and arts proposals illustrated in the framework proposals drawing ( fi g 53 ).
It is based on what is considered to be the minimum level of provision necessary to achieve the framework objectives and, in almost all cases, would benefi t from the inclusion of additional elements, should funds be available.
Whilst all costs include for production, supply and installation they will be liable to variation according to the number of units involved in any one phase of the works.
The costs do not include for professional fees other than the notional allowance that has been made for community engagement ( 8.1.e).
Page 31 Urban Design Futures May 2009