Chilham Village Square Enhancement Scheme Feasibility Study England Rural Development Programme A Rural Enterprise Scheme For Chilham Parish Council report status Revision D 04.08.06 FINAL ISSUE C 24.07.06 ISSUE FOR COMMENT B 30.06.06 DRAFT A 30.05.06 DRAFT

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates report structure 1.0 Introduction 2.0 Project brief 3.0 Chilham – the regional context 4.0 Chilham – its history 5.0 Chilham - tourism 6.0 Chilham – a place to gather 7.0 Chilham – analysis 8.0 Chilham – consultation programme 9.0 the design brief 10.0 Chilham – solving the traffic issues 11.0 Chilham – design strategy 12.0 Chilham – technical constraints 13.0 Chilham – for example 14.0 Chilham – taylors hill car park layout option 15.0 Chilham – proposal for an alternative entrance 16.0 Chilham – economic regeneration 17.0 Chilham – delivery – costs 18.0 Chilham – delivery – project action plan 19.0 conclusion 20.0 bibliography 21.0 acknowledgements Appendices

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates 1.0

introduction Some things go without saying. Chilham has long been recognised as a tourist attraction. For both English and foreign tourists it represents a little piece of ‘old England’, set amongst beautiful countryside. It is a place to relax and enjoy. Historically, its attractive landscape setting and strategic location have created a strong rural economy, resulting in the development and preservation of some of Britain’s finest buildings. Sadly however, the pressures of 21st century living, such as the increases in vehicular traffic and changes in the rural economy have resulted in a fragmentation of the community and a decline in tourism.

In Spring 2005 Chilham Parish Council prepared to apply for assistance towards the cost of enhancing the village square and its environs and selected Rummey Design Associates to help develop the process. An application was lodged with Defra by the Parish Council on the 5th August 2005 for funding under the England Rural Development Programme, the Rural Enterprise Scheme.

On 2nd February 2006, grant funding was awarded for the first stage of the enhancement programme, a feasibility study for the renovation of Chilham square and enhancement of its environs. The aims of this study when implemented will : • help to achieve the revitalisation of the economic and social heart of Chilham and enable local businesses to fulfill their potential; • encourage sustainable tourism and stimulate new rural businesses and associated activities such as local craft and other activities; • offer the best means of protecting and conserving a beautiful and historic built asset for the benefit of all.

The key beneficiary will be the local community as a whole.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates 2.0

project brief Our brief as urban designers and landscape architects is to undertake a feasibility study for the Parish Council to understand community needs and to assess whether an enhancement project is required and to what extent. Our study began with the support of the Defra application last year, culminating in a three month long exercise to test the vision in spring/summer 2006.

The study can be broken down into four clear stages that are:

1.to undertake a site and desktop analysis to consider the background to the project and prepare a consultation plan to gain useful access to a wide range of people in the local community. 2.to facilitate a wide range of community consultation exercises in suitable formats to allow everyone to have their say. 3.to analyse the consultation results and develop a project actions list and a costed design concept for the village square and Taylor’s Hill car park. 4.to prepare a fully costed project plan that can be taken forward by the community to detailed design stage and a possible planning application.

The feasibility study supports the Hidden Britain Project and aims to provide sustainable tourism benefits to Chilham Village.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – the regional context 3.0 In a broader regional context, looking at the South East of England as a whole, Chilham is positioned strategically in Kent, in the Stour Valley at the convergence of a number of valleys and high points. Other aspects relating to its regional context are outlined below. • Tourism is a major local industry. • 6,500 square kilometres (2600 square miles) of the region are designated as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB); a third of the total area of such designations for England. Two of these, the New Forest and the South Downs, have been proposed for National Park Status. • Some 40% of the region's area is the subject of some form of protective designation, such as AONB, Green Belt or Sites of Special Scientific Interest. • More than 80% of the region is classified as ‘rural’ according to recent statistics issued by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). • The region makes a major contribution to the UK economy, accounting for 15.6% of total UK Gross Value Added (GVA) in 2003. GVA measures the contribution to the economy of each individual producer, industry or sector in the UK. The Parish is made up of three villages: Chilham, Old Wives Lees and Shottenden. • On a European basis (2001 figures) the South East ranks 15th of the EU's 86 regional units (including accession states). The South East also compares favourably with other English regions on indicators such as income, with household disposable income 9% above the national average. The South East, East of England and London are the only regions with incomes above the national average. • Chilham benefits from a good regional transport infrastructure. There are close connections with key local tourist attractions (Canterbury, etc.) and with key transport nodes: Dover, Ashford, Channel Tunnel Rail Link. This places it within easy reach of Canterbury, the Channel ports, Leeds Castle, London and Ashford International Station. The village itself has that rare facility these days – a railway station. • In broad terms the South East economy can be categorised as being advanced, high cost, high income, broadly based and service oriented. CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – its history 4.0 The shaping of the place

The Parish of Chilham includes three rural settlements, ‘Chilham’, ‘Old The present day medieval village square and High Street began to take Wives Lees’ and ‘Shottenden’ and there has been recorded activity in shape in the 13 and 1400’s with the construction of a number of heavy the area since prehistoric times. A longbarrow discovered at Julliberrie timber framed Wealden Hall Houses, including ‘Tudor Lodge’, the Downs, close to Chilham village dates back to the Neolithic period, Peacock and ‘Talisman’, and some smaller medieval cottages built around 1700BC. The Romans also inhabited the area and were followed using the abundance of oak at that time. The buildings served the need by the Anglo-Saxons. Records show the building of an Anglo-Saxon for the castle’s support industries such as the forge, the smithy, the stronghold, possibly dating from the 5th century. These civilisations were bakery and homes for the castle staff. attracted to the strategically located, defensible hill sites with good vantage points and a prolific local supply of materials, water and food for living. Chilham was recorded in the Domesday book in AD1085 and Chilham Mill represents one of the best-preserved mills in the south of shortly afterwards the settlement passed into Norman control and the England. Although it ceased production in 1934 and is now a pumping castle was built. The Norman keep dated 1174, still stands today. station, the mill site, which is in an area of special landscape value, is used for recreation, conservation and educational purposes. There is a car park, toilet block and visits for school parties, bird-watchers and The Norman castle was granted to Sir Thomas Cheney in 1541 by Henry nature interest groups can be arranged. VIII who pulled the main castle down and took it to the Isle of Sheppey. The castle we see today is Jacobean, constructed in 1616 for Sir Dudley Digges, designed by Inigo Jones. The gardens were laid out originally by John Tradescant, reputedly being redesigned in the 18th Century under the guidance of Capability Brown. The oldest recorded heronry in England dating from at least the 13th Century is situated in the Castle’s Deer park. It is one of the finer mansions in the South-East and commands exceptional views across the Stour Valley. Although no longer accessible to the public, the castle still imposes its presence on the village. Moreover, there are occasional opportunities for the public to enjoy the castle: the current schedule of events includes open garden days, evening jazz picnics and classical music evenings, etc.

There has been a church in Chilham on its present site since the 7th century. It has always been the focus of the parish, located on the narrow point of the high ground with far reaching views over the surrounding valleys.

Street party in the village square CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – brief historical timeline . . . 4.1 Mr and Mrs Wheeler 1700BC 1171 1210 1944-1949 Lord Viscount Massereene and Ferrard 1949-1997 2000-today 1280 1534 1541 Digges Family 1607-1724 Colebrooke family 1724-1774 Thomas Heron 1774-1794 Wildman Family 1794-1861 Hardy Family 1861-1918 Sir Edmund Davis 1918-1939 Somerset De Chair 1997-2000

1100 1500 1600 1700 1800 1900 2000

Julliberrie Chilham Clocktower Sir Dudley Digges Re-routed Castle grave - Heronry builds present Canterbury road restored and evidence of Jacobean house and constructed gardens early activity in – bricks made on Charing cross opened to parish the estate. road bypass public

Sold off Castle Norman Castle Henry VIII granted Enclosed estate with Re-routed the many restored built - the keep castle to Sir Thomas brick wall reducing Canterbury – Ashford historical and still stands and is Cheney – pulled castle size of the village road to the South of assets, equestrian longest down and moved to square which once the river and also including events inhabited Isle of Sheppey ran up towards castle constructed the building doors. Charing road bypass. property. opened Church Giorgiou Petrou, closed the castle gates to the public. Carried out Restored many houses in the restoration work square and built 2 gatehouses and employed (1922). Many new houses in Capability Brown the village. Converted 15th to landscape the Century tithe barn into cinema gardens and billiards room (now the CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE village hall). Rummey Design Associates Chilham - 1741 4.2 This National Trust painting shows Chilham village in the centre on a high plateau. You can appreciate the attraction of Chilham as a place to settle, with it’s panoramic views and the local abundant supply of food, building materials and fresh water of the River Stour in the foreground. The link between the Inigo Jones house/ castle and church on the ridgeline is clearly marked by a Lime tree avenue which was subsequently lost in the 1987 storm. One of these lime trees still remains in the square today. It is believed that the village square would originally have been a lot larger, stretching between the castle and church, until the estate was enclosed by the park wall in the 18th century. The lodge houses came much later, in the 1920’s, completing the built enclosure of the current village square.

By courtesy of the National Trust

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – the rural economy 4.3 Historical influences on the economy of Chilham The rural economy of Chilham has been shaped by the use of the land and its relationship with its people, particularly the owners of the castle. Many of the buildings and roads of Chilham were built by the castle’s owners and the village inhabitants were employed directly or indirectly by the estate. Some of the most significant events and changes in the development and economy have been influenced by the castle, including the time after the death of former castle owner, Sir Edmund Davis at the end of the second world war which left the community in crisis. Jobs and homes were lost when the estate was sold off, including many of the houses around the square and along the High Street. Some land was acquired from the church and the estate workers were eventually rehoused in the first local authority housing in Chilham in the 1950’s, creating a step change in the growth of the village.

Today the castle’s influence in the village is less powerful, although the use of the grounds and estate still has an effect on the village’s economy. Currently Chilham is undergoing a period of transition as the use of the castle has changed and the community becomes more self sufficient. The major areas of employment for the community are now in Ashford, Canterbury and even London. The possible Science Park at Wye could also have a significant effect on the future of Chilham.

Another factor that has influenced Chilham’s economy is the transport network. Chilham marks an intersection where rail lines, road, water courses and pedestrian routes meet. This bought with it an opportunity for the exchange of merchandise such as wool and grain. Since 1260, the square had been the venue for a weekly market, but this practice ceased 200 years ago.

Mineral extraction has also shaped the landscape, both physically and Local rural industries economically. Lakes along the course of the River Stour are the result of excavations that have subsequently been used for food production and recreational activities.

The fishing community is a key part of the economic growth of Chilham and their demands for supplies and facilities are creating a new market that needs to be catered for. CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – tourism 5.0 Tourism is by far the largest influence on the local economy today. The top ten attractions in the South East (amongst those charging Chilham is a national tourism destination and also a convenient place to admission): stop en-route to other major tourism destinations such as Canterbury and Attractions Visits Dover. The stunning landscape setting coupled with a well preserved Legoland, Windsor1,369,308 historical built environment provides a honeypot for visitors in the North Canterbury Cathedral 1,091,684 Downs Area of Outstanding National Beauty. A busy diary of events and Windsor Castle 923,280 activities in the village created a boom in the local economy in the latter Wisley Garden 698,500 part of the 20th century but these have now largely ceased and the Paultons Park 550,000 number of tourists that visit the village has declined. Tulleys Farm, W. Sussex 490,000 Hop Farm Country Park 482,000 Tourism Wakehurst Place 420,831 Royal Victoria Country Park 420,000 Tourism is a key industry in the South East – and also for Chilham. Leeds Castle 413,042 The website www.industry.visitsoutheastengland.com contains a wealth of These are all important figures, because for many visitors coming from data about UK and foreign visitors to the region. It is beyond the scope of outside the UK, the South East region represents the focal point (and this report to provide a comprehensive analysis, but a few points on the perhaps the entirety) of their visit. 2004 visitor data merit comment: None of this information is new – that is not the point. The point is that UK Visitors: collectively this all adds up to Chilham’s ‘offer’: what is special about • the highest number of UK visitors in 2004 were social profile AB (38% Chilham that it has to offer tourists: the sense of place and of history, its of total, amounting to 6.3 million). proximity to leading tourist attractions (Canterbury) and the fact that what it has to offer complements, rather than competes with, • 69% of UK visitors travelled by car (only 13% by train). Canterbury. • trips were spread fairly evenly across the year: 25% in January - Points emerging from the above which are particularly relevant to March, 24% in April – June, 28% in July – September, and 23% in Chilham include: October – December. • tourism is the principal industry. • average spend per trip was £179 (£61 per night). • the strong rural flavour, and the little bit of ‘old England’ are two • total UK visitor spend in the South East was just over £3 billion, with tourism needs that Chilham can meet very well. 22% spent on accommodation and 25% on food and drink (the highest spend category). • the fact that Chilham was one of the most visited villages in Kent means effectively that it is top of the league of “village offers”. This Foreign visitors: is a strong position to be in. • there were 3.95 million visits in 2004, staying 31.3 million nights, and • there are real opportunities to grow the tourist market in Chilham – spending nearly £1.5 million. first as a result of improving transport infrastructure, and second by • overseas visits are more seasonal: the quarterly breakdowns are: way of enhancing and focusing what Chilham has to offer. 18%, 27%, 35% 21%. • Visitors to the South East are generally high spending (especially • the top three overseas markets for South Eastern tourism, measured from the USA) – provided that there is something to spend it on. by spend, were: the USA (£216 million in 2004), France (£115 million in • most money is spent on food and drink, followed by 2004) and Germany (£93 million in 2004). accommodation. These are clearly areas to focus on. • average length of stay: 7.9 days. Average expenditure per day: • UK visitors spend more than foreign visitors. (And UK visitors, who £46.90 (£372 per visit). CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE usually travel by car, can drive their purchases home afterwards.) Rummey Design Associates Chilham – a place to gather 6.0

Meeting point In order to understand Chilham’s strengths, it is necessary first to take an objective view of the village itself. The central core of the village – the square, is considered Pilgrims Way by many to be one of the most perfectly preserved medieval settings in South East England. It has been a convenient and strategic meeting point for centuries. It is North Downs Way the point where paths cross, roads join and people gather. Focussed on a strong visual ‘backbone’ that links the castle, square and the church, Chilham has a powerful Historic walks architectural structure that has stood the tests of time and cultural changes. The Winchester to Canterbury pilgrims still pass through Stour Valley Walk Chilham today along the Pilgrims Way, coinciding with the North Downs Way and Stour Valley Walk. The pilgrims have bought prosperity to the route through Chilham over time, River Stour culminating in one of Britain’s finest buildings, Canterbury cathedral. There are two village inns (The White Horse and Woolpack Main roads Inns), one of which has accommodation. Both are historic and popular attractions in themselves and offer catering and bar facilities. In addition there are a number of other Secondary roads properties in the area offering self catering and bed and breakfast accommodation. The village is also known to a considerably wider audience, having been the setting for several film and TV productions. It is one of the most- Station visited villages in Kent. Other key businesses in the village currently include motor servicing and maintenance, the village post office, a wedding catering company and Railway builders. Photo : Robert Berry

The routes around Chilham r o u t e s

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE The historic buildings provide an attraction for visitors Rummey Design Associates Chilham – a place to gather 6.1

The The white Church The Horse Copper Kettle

The gift shop

Village school

Main road North Downs A252 way

Secondary Taylor’s Hill road car park Chilham Elephant House Castle Main view

Arrangement of destinations in the village centre Most routes converge in the village square

destinations routes Special events V V T The castle Open far Fishing events Community V illage school ea r illage pub illage shops ooms m

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – ‘sense of place’ Associations and memories Some Historic Events 6.2

Chilham becomes increasingly interesting as the information about its The Marymas Fair - 15th August historic inhabitants, visitors and events become apparent. These cultural A 3 day fair held by Alexander Baliol, celebrating the feast of the associations add to what is known as the ‘sense of place’ which Assumption of the Virgin Mary, granted in 1293 by King Edward 1 of increases in depth through experience and memory. Chilham is England. overflowing with cultural associations and stories of the past. However it is often only through celebration and experience that these events and Sir Dudley Digge’s Annual Race – 19th May until 1850 people who have shaped Chilham’s future can come to light. Stories of A race between two chosen couples, from Chilham and Faversham historic battles and recent jousting events are told when Chilham is aged between 16 and 24, held at Chilham from 1638. Races ceased in mentioned. Many of the events and traditions held in the community 1850. such as the Marymas Fair and Sir Dudley Digges annual race have long gone and now celebration is limited to a small number of annual Jousting events. Many weddings and other ceremonies are held in the village Until the mid 90’s, the castle was the home of the Jousting Association church every year, creating happy memories and associations for many of people. However more interpretive events and activities are required to bring life back to Chilham. Great Britain. Markets The weekly market in the square ceased 200 years ago. Some Current Events

Equestrian Organised and informal walks, pilgrimage Castle gardens – open second Tuesday of each month Celebration venue - baptism, weddings and funerals May festival Music in Chilham Park Autumn Festival Fishing

Events past and present. The square always had a strong social function. CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – approach and arrival 6.3 Historically one of the main approaches to the square would have been via the High Street or as it was once known, ‘Burgoyne Street’. In the C18th the Wildman family built a new bypass around Chilham and movement around and into the village A252 changed course. Traditionally the transition between the highway and the approach road would be marked by a gateway feature, typically a landmark building or landscape feature. With the current approach CHURCH there is no sense of expectation or arrival in Chilham. The entrance is traffic dominated and encourages drivers to continue into Chilham Square w.c Taylor’s Hill creating the traffic problems that we are now encountering. Taylor’s Hill car park

1. Main Entrance Pinch 2. Entrance to Car park point 3. Bottleneck on Taylor’s Hill 4. The Square

CASTLE

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – approach and arrival 6.4 1. Main Entrance

The main approach to the village became that of the route up Taylor’s Hill to the west side of the square. Today this route into the village centre is encouraged by a number of very large Highways Agency signs. There is no difference in the surface treatment between the highway and the Taylor’s Hill, encouraging higher traffic speeds on entering Chilham.

Main Entrance 2. Entrance to Car park

The new public car park on Taylor’s Hill is a large expanse of blacktop, with concrete kerbs and grass verges. It is not lit at night and the space is enclosed by steep banks up to the castle and a mature woodland belt. The car park is not manned, is open 24 hours a day and is only overlooked by a few neighbouring properties. The car park spaces are not marked out and the place feels unwelcoming to users day and night. At night we understand that the car park is used for anti-social activity, further discouraging its use by local residents.

3. Bottleneck on Taylor’s Hill Car park Taylor’s Hill Car park entrance The passage up Taylor’s hill to the historic centre of Chilham is very wide and comfortable for vehicular users, for the first part, encouraging vehicles to pass the car park and head on towards the centre, only for them to become lodged further up the hill at the first bottleneck. Movement priorities are not indicated at this point, causing some confusion. 3. Bottle neck on Taylor’s Hill

4. The Square Upon arrival into the village square, views are blocked and interrupted by vehicles. The historic character of the square’s edges should dominate the space but this is Taylor’s Hill - bottleneck significantly reduced by the use of the square as a car park. The design and quality of the space is poor, resulting in a lack of use and activity and a reduction in the quality of the visual amenity of the place. The fixtures and fittings of the square such as the benches, bins and signs are reducing the visual value of the space, neither being practically or aesthetically successful. The square

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – aerial view 6.5

Church

Taylor’s Hill Car Park

Former Lime Avenue School

Castle

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates 7.0

the village square We now turn our attention to the square which reflects the medieval feudal origins of the village. Its centre line connects the castle entrance at one end and the church at the other, with four radial routes that mark the corners of the square. The Stour Valley Walk, North Downs Way and the Pilgrims Way are just some of the many recognised pedestrian routes that converge on this space.

In the historic photographs, on page 7.1, we can see that the square was much greener in character in the past and the old lime avenue leading from the church to the castle had a significant effect on the feel of the place. Some of the buildings were covered in climbers and we can see that the square is used for other purposes. Façades have been updated, buildings have been extended and in some cases buildings have been completely replaced and many have changed in use. Many of the small trading establishments on the square have now become residential properties. Only the gift shop, pub and tea rooms are still open for business today.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – the village square 7.1 The village square as it is today, but without cars. The strong visual link through the castle entrance and church is marked in red. A village green once occupied the far end of the square and stretched beyond the castle lodge houses. Look at the historic photos here to see how green the square once was. Today the square is devoid of features and a village green.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – analysis 7.2 Parking is a major problem in the square. Residents and visitors compete for space and the area is not policed or marked. Within the square, there are no road or parking bays, creating a confused and congested character, detracting from the historic setting. There are also cars parked along the fronts of the buildings obscuring views and paths. Lines of cars dominate the centre of the square. Car parking is haphazard and vehicular movement around these cars is confusing causing potentially dangerous situations and damage to property.

Emergency and delivery vehicles have a particularly difficult time accessing and servicing the buildings, temporarily blocking roads during busy periods. In conclusion, parking needs to be controlled and managed more effectively. Spatial and physical cues should be used to direct and control traffic, rather than the use of excessive signage and white lines.

3. parking

- not enough? - location not clear? - area unsafe?

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – analysis 7.3 The photographs illustrate how restricted the openings onto Chilham square are. These create congestion and safety 1. Approach lacks problems. - Orientation - Clarity

- legibility

Signage is confusing and in some cases hard to find. The signs are unattractive, not specific to Chilham and utilitarian in 2. Signage inappropriate style. Signage, which is a last resort, should contribute to the ‘sense of place’ and not detract from it. - not in the right location? - poor quality?

- out of date

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – analysis – character components 7.4 4. Edges and boundaries

- gates – some historical - enclosure – open vs enclosed - deterrence - confusion

5. Quality

- inconsistent styles of street furniture - maintenance variable in standard - variable quality and unsustainable surface materials - poor quality furniture - unattractive detailing

6. Distinctive character elements

- unique motifs - historical fire insurance signs - Monuments - Statuary

- distinctive CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE vernacular styles Rummey Design Associates Chilham - consultation programme 8.0

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham - consultation programme 8.1 The key issues and aspirations identified through the consultation Top Ten Aspirations: programme are as follows: 1. Village square to become a more sociable and attractive place, a meetings and events space as a focal point that comes closer to the ‘Miss Marple’ example demonstrated by Top Ten Issues: the TV production company 2. To eliminate the problem of anti-social behaviour in Taylors Hill 1. Parking / congestion in the square – restricting access and a by making it more attractive, overlooked, better used by the danger re emergency vehicles; causing an eyesore for residents community, in co-operation with the police. and visitors; deters community from using a key asset. 3. For residents in the square to be able to park directly outside 2. Anti-social behaviour in Taylor’s Hill car park makes it a no go their houses but eliminate the majority of parked cars from the area, particularly for families, adding to the problem of parking square and side streets / congestion in the square. 4. To make more of Chilham’s heritage through signage and visitor 3. Closure of the castle, means that visitors now have less to do in information Chilham when they arrive. It is not set up to manage or cater for visitors. Without its castle, Chilham is not a destination. 5. To have access to the Castle grounds for special events and tours (including school). 4. Local economy is fragile – with the beauty of Chilham under threat. 6. To improve traffic flow 5. Chilham lacks a sense of community – the parish is spread over 7. To improve the range of facilities for the community and for three villages, community including local business does not visitors, including a picnic area, good quality food & drink work together. 8. To improve cycling and pedestrian routes around the village 6. Conflict of pedestrians and cars because of the volume of 9. To improve the A250 / A28 junction which is currently an through traffic – particularly problematic for the school and for accident blackspot. visitors who use Taylors Hill car park. 10. To build a stronger community – residential and business. 7. Lack of agreement as to what Chilham should be – residents don’t want tourists, businesses feel lack of support and need tourists. 8. Resistance to change. 9. Buildings are underused – the empty antiques shop is in severe disrepair, the graveyard is not maintained to a very high standard, the tea shop is not open regularly. 10. The community feels a strong lack of support / interest from the local authorities – not helped by the fact that it sits so close to the border of another local authority.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Temporary layout of Chilham square for the television series ‘Miss Marple’ Rummey Design Associates 9.0

the design brief The issues and aspirations have been taken forward to create the brief for the development of a design project for the village square and Taylor’s Hill car park. The priority is to make the village square safe and to encourage life back into the heart of Chilham. Key views and visual connections create the backbone to the proposals, celebrating in particular the connection between the castle and the church. The remaining active frontages to the square are to be enhanced in the design and social activity and interaction encouraged in the space. Vehicular access and parking will always be required so our job was to assess the need for parking and consolidating the requirement, giving priority to the residents of the square and disabled and elderly users. This brief can be grouped under the following headings:

1. Discourage parking in the square by offering alternative solutions for current visitor groups.

2. Clarify routes and resting points, with clear definition between public and private spaces.

3. Encourage pedestrian use of the square.

4. Enhance Taylor’s Hill Car Park to create a reception for the village, encouraging parking and reducing congestion in the square, in line with current guidelines and recommendations.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham - solving the traffic issues. 10.0 Design references. We do recognise that the car is now an important part of our lives, but it Successful shared space requires that the goings on of society are should be managed in a way to minimise impact on the environment visible in public spaces. The more we experience the atmosphere the and maximise opportunities for social integration and ‘civic’ life. The more involved we feel. The public space once again provides the focus concept of ‘shared spaces’ is becoming widely understood and to the village, bringing life back into the square. acknowledged as a successful approach to the use of public realm spaces, where drivers, cyclists and pedestrians move together in a safe environment to create active and harmonious spaces. Key aims therefore are to: A lot of research has been undertaken on the design of successful public realm spaces, especially by CABE. Outlined below are some relevant ideas that maybe useful for Chilham. Some current thinking and reference in public realm enhancement Aim 1 schemes Clarify movement and flow by Spearheaded by Hans Monderman and Ben Hamilton Baillie. design and not signs. Shared space - make space for people The concept of ‘shared space’ views public spaces as primarily for people and that spaces should facilitate a range of uses rather than restricting them. The use of spaces for traffic should not be denied but the priorities change and the traffic function becomes equal to other functions. The presumption of the use of the space is changed in favour of pedestrian rather than vehicles. Aim 2 Naked Streets Provide a multifunctional space to Many road accidents are so-called ‘right-of-way’ accidents. Whilst encourage increased social signs, street furniture and road markings indicate pedestrian right of activity and movement in the way, drivers still assume the road space to be primarily theirs. It has square. been shown that by removing the signs and road markings, and therefore decreasing reliance on authoritative control, roads become safer through self regulation. Both driver and pedestrian awareness is increased by the uncertainty of a junction, speeds are reduced and eye contact is established. This has been proven to increase road safety. (Ben Hamilton – Baillie, 2004). Aim 3 Public space - everybody’s business Provide interpretation and An important premise of public space is that behaviour on roads with a orientation through design and by public character is influenced more by the expression of the forging cultural and social environment than by the signs conventionally used in highways associations through a programme engineering. The visible presence of people in a space has more effect of events. on people than a sign warning of crossing children or speed controls. CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – design strategy 11.0 Technical requirements

In order to develop options for improving the existing situation we must The following pages show several options which consider these first take into account the technical constraints. These include: technical requirements, whilst dealing with the first three elements of the design brief described on the previous page, which include:

- Parking 1. Discourage parking in the square by offering alternative solutions for A minimum of 21 parking spaces are required within the square for current visitor groups. residential, church in addition to disabled access. This accommodates the need for one parking place per house on and close to the square, 2. Clarify routes and resting points. six spaces for the church and two disabled driver spaces. 3. Encourage pedestrian use of the square. - Turning circles Standard turning circles have been used to give approximate positions for the roads, however these will need confirming by a highways engineer. These elements will encompass changes within the square; Project 1

- Public amenity Views within the square need to be protected to ensure quality of The final element of the brief, which involves the enhancement of space is maintained. Taylor’s Hill car park, will be dealt with as a separate project; Project 2

- Historical Background The square and its local environs are protected by various statutes and regulations for example the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the designation of listed buildings.

In addition to these technical requirements we need to allow flexibility to accommodate uses that might be classified as ‘local colour’, such as weddings, area specific events, fairs, markets and equestrian activities. Technical requirements should not preclude the use of Chilham square as a multi-purpose space.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham - technical constraints - design option 1 12.0

Option 1

Parking can either be placed around the edge of the square, or concentrated in the centre, as shown in this option. Combined with a circular traffic route, however, this option does not provide a dedicated space in the square for public events, as shown in the spatial opportunities diagram. Parking Traffic routes The required parking spaces remain Traffic moves around the central in the centre, while the edges of the parking area. square are more defined, separating private residential space from public visitor space.

Pedestrian routes and Active frontages Spatial opportunities The parking area and traffic route push space free for other activities to the edges of the square.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham - technical constraints - design option 2 12.1

Option 2

This option portrays the parking as being centrally located but also allowing traffic through the centre. This option still provides little opportunity for public activity or events.

Parking Traffic routes Parking is positioned along a The traffic route is simplified to a central route, allowing traffic to single route through one side of pass through the middle. the square, reducing the total amount of space allocated to roads.

Pedestrian routes and Active frontages Spatial opportunities Reducing the total area of road space by forming a single traffic route frees space to one side of the square for activities and events to occur. CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham - technical constraints - design option 3 12.2

Option 3

This option illustrates parking around the edge while a circular traffic route clears the centre of the square for other users, such as a green or market space. This allows the ancient view line between the castle and the church to be maintained and is considered to be the best option.

Parking Traffic routes Parking is positioned along the The traffic route is simplified to a edges of the square, whilst single route through one side of the allowing traffic to pass through its square, reducing the total amount centre. of space allocated to roads, whilst a one way route is provided for parking access.

Pedestrian routes and Active frontages Spatial opportunities Reducing the total area of road space by forming a single traffic route frees space at the centre of the square for activities and CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE events to occur. Rummey Design Associates Chilham – for example . . . 13.0 Taking option 3, the following indicative sketches demonstrate how the View sequence square might be re-designed to incorporate the aspirations identified by the community and our analysis of the existing situation.

Strategic design concept 3.

1.

2. 4.

The existing lime tree has been maintained as a shelter to the seating below and a beautiful asset to the square. The planting of new trees in the square must take account of the views available within the square. New trees have been placed to define the main view axis through the square, and to provide framed views of its built form below the canopy of the trees. The view sequence is as follows:

Two tree lines, which could be clipped, frame the view axis through the 1. When people first arrive in the square their view is naturally directed square and create a ‘clearing’ as a central focal space, providing a towards the central focal space of the square flexible public events area within the square. 2. Their view then refocuses on the buildings beyond the trees, which Users of the square are also provided with seating opportunities with create framed views of the built form beyond the public space. views across the square, a visible information point and a school 3. The church is the important view at one end of the main axis of the meeting space. square. Resident and disabled parking spaces are defined, whilst retaining the built edges as active pedestrian zones. 4. Chilham Castle balances the view at the other end of the main axis of the square.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – Indicative Layout option 13.1 This indicative plan, which should be regarded as part of the strategy, gives an idea of how option 3 could be achieved on the ground. Clearly this sketch needs to be progressed, but it gives an indication of how a multifunctional, attractive, safer square could be achieved.

Brick paving detail Roman bricks

Road narrowed to discourage parking Main entrance to St Mary’s church

White Police space / wedding car space Horse Inn Bound gravel (PH) Pedestrian entrance West Bailey to Church yard Clements The cottage No. 3 The Knowlers The Square Copper Kettle

Chantry Well Cottage – Cottage Clovers site of former village well Community notice Tudor Cottage board + The Smithy Stage / dais – to Tudor Lodge KEY be designed (Gift Shop) with School Bound gravel – soft The Peacock natural / buff finish. Lime trees – natural and pleached Market stalls for specialist markets North Lodge Chrisholme Oak Bollards with (1922) discreet down lighting Belke Power point for Christmas House Lime avenue – these can tree and events. be clipped to required South Lodge shape of required. (1922) Clipped yew hedge Lighting bollard

School Hill Painted timber bollards – to match existing School meeting place Brick edge details – hand made bricks to match White bollard CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE existing on square Rummey Design Associates Chilham - key issues and understanding needs 13.2 A shared space for official vehicles could be provided to the east of the Access to resident’s properties will be protected by limiting space for square adjacent to the entrance to the church. This is to encourage a parking along the circulation routes. police presence in the square as well as providing clear space for the turning of emergency vehicles and parking. Traffic would flow predominantly as a two-way route through the centre We have proposed two larger spaces for disabled users of the square, of the square with a one way loop to access residents parking on the one at either end of the square and 21 spaces for residents and church eastern side of the square. The routes have been mapped out digitally visitors. The parking is arranged ‘in echelon’ to reduce the visual impact to allow for modern requirements for vehicular turning circles and of cars on the square. Parking is arranged in a linear pattern, down access lines. either side of the square allowing an open corridor along the centre to retain the visual connection between the castle and the church. The centre of the square is reserved for pedestrians and focuses on a Parking along Taylor’s Hill would be discouraged by narrowing the road, central raised stage of high quality paving, for example a roman brick allowing clearer sight lines to avoid congestion on this hill. pattern of narrow, long handmade bricks to reflect the materials and historical context, but other materials such as stone could be used. This stage could be the focus of a community led project, including the Markings and edgings are proposed in hand made brick details that school, leading to its use as a focal point for the village. Examples of its would reflect the materials used in the village and castle. Coloured use could include theatre productions or plays, music bands, sculpture markings and signs would be avoided wherever possible. Changes of display and a place for the village Christmas tree. level, drainage channels etc, could belong to the same family of details to import a uniform quality to the space. The space associated with this central stage / area is intended to be used for markets, fairs or temporary seating for productions when required. It is bounded by lime trees, recalling the historical lime tree A space is provided in the centre of the scheme for community use, avenue that once framed the square. These will soften the space providing memorial and historical interpretation opportunities. providing a green setting to the architecture, affording some privacy to the residents of the square and providing interest in a hard environment. They are located well away from the houses, avoiding root and light Surfacing of the square is proposed in soft coloured, fixed gravel. issues. Seating will be simple and sculptural using locally hand crafted materials such as oak and stone.

Some low level public lighting is required. Currently, the square relies on borrowed light from private homes bordering the square. We recommend uplighting to the castle gates and trees and low, discreet down lighting within the oak bollards to light paths and frame the square at night.

At the entrance to the square, a meeting point is marked by a notice board and information point, designed to be in keeping with the historical setting.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – taylors hill car park layout option 14.0 For the square to function better (as shown in the Alternative car park layout sketch previous pages) a solution for increasing and retaining The car park becomes the arrival area of parking within Taylor’s Hill Car park needs to be Chilham. Traffic from the A252 is directed provided. This sketch illustrates how the car park could into the car park, rather than continuing usefully be redesigned to fulfil this aspiration. on to the square, also increasing safety through visual supervision from both the Tree avenue to Concept road and the pedestrian link. celebrate entrance to historic centre. A252 New pedestrian link

Grass areas - To the Fire can be used for square Station picnicing.

Pedestrian and visual link Aspiration overlain on current situation

At present the layout of the road and the car park, along with the current signage, suggests that Taylor’s Coach Hill is a secondary or overflow car park, and that parking parking nearer the square can be found by driving up Taylor’s Hill, leading to parking congestion within the Taylor’s square. Hill The car park needs alteration to be read as the parking place for Chilham square, to give a sense of arrival and cause people to park and walk up Taylor’s Hill, understanding that the square is close by. This could be achieved by: • Altering the road layout to enter the car park, whilst Taylor’s Hill appears primarily as a pedestrian Coach drop-off route. • Providing signage to emphasis a sense of arrival in Existing w.c. Chilham. upgraded and made • Designing the car park as a pleasant and safe visibly accessible. . place, designing out anti social behaviour by providing lighting and natural supervision from the road and pedestrian traffic. CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham - proposal for alternative entrance 15.0 One issue that was raised a number of times during the consultation was whether the Taylor’s Hill approach to the historic village square was the right one for visitors. A parallel independent study by Ben Hamilton-Baillie for the AONB raised similar issues on the use of the current approach route to the square. The present approach is obscure, including a sharp bend into the village, confusing orientation and preventing a sense of arrival at the historic centre. An alternative approach into Chilham should be considered which is from the direction of the station, to the east of the village. The sequence of approach, entrance and arrival from this direction would be much clearer and more appropriate for Chilham. The existing avenue of trees creates a transition from the highway to the High Street and the ‘gateway’, providing an indication of arrival into the village. This gateway is marked by the Woolpack Inn.

Existing gateway to Existing Lime Chilham Avenue)

Tree lined avenue TAYLORS HILL

BAGHAM ROAD

THE STREET Woolpack Inn Alternative gateway to SCHOOL HILL Chilham along Bagham Road, from the A252

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – economic regeneration

Chilham should place itself in direct contrast (but in a complementary16.0 In order to understand Chilham’s strengths, it is necessary first to take an role) to the hectic, bustling tourist experience of a city like Canterbury. objective view of the village and its surrounds. Let us quickly summarise what we already know. Chilham can even become the hub of a holiday, or a weekend break (although to achieve this it will certainly need to promote itself as such). “Why stay in a city and visit the village, when you can stay in a village Successful Economic Regeneration and visit the city? Enjoy life as it was 500 years ago, in a little piece of old The successful economic regeneration of Chilham requires a vision and England” (etc.). Certainly bed and breakfast provision should increase a strategy. The vision is of what we want to achieve, what kind of place as more (and more focused) visitors come to the village, and local inn/ we want Chilham to be. This encompasses everything from the quality hotel accommodation provision may well need to be increased. of life of the people who live there, the kinds of businesses and Much has been said about the creation of regional craft shops offering economic activity that will be trading there, how (and how many) local crafts and quality goods to visiting tourists. Whilst there is no tourists will visit and what they will do there. problem with this kind of initiative, there are issues to do with the viability The strategy, on the other hand, focuses on how that is to be achieved. of such a retail operation in the early days. There need to be craft objects to sell, and there need to be enough visitors to sustain the outlet. The Vision A more successful option, in the shorter term, is considered to be in the Chilham is probably united in agreeing two key elements for the vision: area of local quality foods. This is an attractive route because: 1. An improved quality of environment for the local community • There are many regional food producers within the local area. (particularly, but not limited to, the village square). Some are within a few miles of Chilham; others are further afar. 2. Increased business activity, bringing more customers, wealth and • The range of local provisions available includes wines (from local economic activity to the village. As the tourist offer improves, vineyards), cheeses, meats, ciders, fruit, sauces, etc. For example: this becomes a virtuous circle as more tourists bring in more Chilham fruit stall Chilham Organic fruit and money, enabling the tourist offer in turn to be improved. vegetables, plants and pots Creating quality space for pedestrians, tourists & visitors is also key to this. They are currently dissuaded from enjoying and Badgers Hill Farm and Cidery Chilham Cider, free range eggs lingering (and from visiting?). (*chicken, goose, quail), Kent honeys, sauces, jams, Business activity cannot be limited to the village square: that would fruit juices, result in overheating and a reduced quality of life for locals and tourists The Good Shed* Canterbury Organic vegetables and alike, once again. However activity is likely to be focused on the square fruit, meat, fish, cheeses in the first instance, extending out into sidestreets, to the Mill and even cider, juices, and fresh local beyond, in the longer term. This can all become part of the “Chilham produce. experience.” Standard Quay Fisheries Faversham Fresh Fish Chilham should be perceived as the place to enjoy a little bit of old England, to be discovered at ‘old England’s’ pace: quietly and on a Macknade Farm Shop Faversham Cheese counter and small scale. A potter around the village, perhaps a quality meal or general grocery snack (bistro, gastro-pub, contemporary and informal), followed by a Rosings Luddenham Speciality vegetables. little speciality shopping: the best wines and quality provisions from the region (“Did you know that there is a huge variety of different types of Wyes Farmers Market Wye cider?”), quality antiques, local crafts, art, etc. *An important initiative, they should be regarded as complementary rather than in competition. CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – economic regeneration 16.1 • The number of vineyards in Kent has not been fully investigated, We would not seek to wish such a level of “success” on Chilham, but but a cursory local search produced the following: there is a real opportunity to put Chilham on the map as a place to visit and spend money. Ash Coombe Vineyard Lamberhurst Vineyard Discussions with successful speciality shops of this kind indicate that Barnsole Vineyard Leeds Castle sustained success – i.e. economic viability – depends on a small number of key factors: Bearsted Vineyard Meopham Valley Vineyard • A good range of quality produce. Biddenden Vineyard Mount Ephraim • Keeping the shop looking busy and full. Chiddingstone Vineyards Pembury Vineyard • (Critically): adding a café or similar to bring people through the Conghurst Vineyard Penshurst Vineyard shop. Clearly this then adds opportunities for serving local Elham Valley Vineyard Rowenden Vineyard produce, adding a small bakery for speciality breads, cakes, etc. Food needs to be crisp and contemporary, appealing to the eye Groombridge Place Sandhurst Vineyard and the palette rather than just to an ‘old England’ tea and Harden Vineyard Sedlescombe Organic Vineyard crumpets market. Harbourne Vineyard Syndale Valley Vineyards Tenterden Vineyard Park The Strategy This will not happen by decree. Nor can it just happen by declaring a One wonders how these vineyards manage to reach their markets. It is desire to make it happen – or even by opening some new shops and likely they would welcome a dedicated, relatively local outlet. In this ‘hoping’ for success. way Chilham could become a focus for a range of overlapping, but complementary ‘markets’, not just tourism. A detailed strategy is beyond the scope of this document, but there are some key threads that will need to be investigated and pursued: • Quality provisions of this kind are simply not sold by supermarkets, and thus there is little competition. • Quality provisions of this kind are purchased by foreign visitors, by 1. The Offer UK visitors and by ‘locals’. Every place, every tourist attraction, has an ‘offer’. Work needs to be • It would be a business that, if sustainable, should be sustainable done to articulate Chilham’s offer in more concrete terms. For example: throughout the year. • Walkers, countryside recreation • The great source of added value would be in bringing together an • Cultural and historic interest. unsurpassed range of (for example) local wines and ciders that could not otherwise be purchased under one roof. • Weddings, wedding receptions (encourage visitors to make a weekend of it, so they need accommodation, places to eat, etc.) • This approach is fully in line with DEFRA’s stated objectives of reducing the vertical supply chain, bringing producers closer to • Day trippers their markets. • Foodies Successful places such as Padstow and Ludlow, which although • Coach parties (e.g. from Canterbury; where do they come from, (relatively) small, have become renowned world-wide for the quality of where do they go next. How long do they have?) the experience – particularly in wining and dining. CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham – economic regeneration 16.2 2. The Market Furthermore, it is essential that Chilham’s “tourist offer” – recreation, leisure, history, etc. – is broadened to include its business offer: tourism Careful consideration should be given to defining the market(s) that without revenue is just an expense – a drain on the village’s resources. Chilham is targeting. We consider that there are three: 4. Marketing Strategy, Marketing Plan • Foreign visitors Tourists already visit Chilham: the problem at present is that they do not • UK visitors (day trips, weekends/short breaks, holidays) spend money within the village. The issue therefore is twofold: • The local community. • To provide more opportunities for visitors to spend money in There is little doubt that if the proposed Science Park at Wye Campus Chilham. were to go ahead, Chilham would benefit economically. There would • To attract more visitors to Chilham – particularly those who are best certainly be a need for quality wining and dining facilities: pubs, suited to what Chilham has to offer (i.e. sell). restaurants, etc. – both at lunchtimes and in the evenings. For those working at the Science Park, the ‘old world’ atmosphere provided by For visitors from outside the south east (both UK and foreign visitors) the Chilham would offer a welcome contrast to the hi-tech work Web is now a key tool for planning holidays, visits, accommodation, etc. environment. Again, this gives us a classic example of how a joined-up Chilham already has its own Website, and much can be done here to offer might work: popping across to Chilham in the lunch-hour for a pub strengthen the offer. However the real benefits will be seen when lunch might include a visit to buy some cheese or wine; or a lunch-time Chilham is integrated with the very many different types of tourist and visit just to buy cheese and get some fresh air might include a bistro leisure websites that cover the south east. For example: lunch. Precisely this mechanism works in a number of conserved villages Tourism South East www.visitsoutheastengland.com where tourists, or people working shop, for example people in Oxford The Countryside Agency www.countryside.gov.uk and Cheltenham travel to grocers now r enowned for the quality of their produce. English Tourism Council www.englishtourism.org.uk Cyclists Touring Club www.ctc.org.uk British Horse Society www.bhs.org.uk 3. Communication and Coherence The Ramblers Association www.ramblers.org.uk It is essential that the way in which Chilham goes about the economic The Institute of Public Rights of Way www.iprow.co.uk revitalisation of its community is actively shared amongst the business National trails www.nationaltrails.gov.uk community within (and immediately surrounding) Chilham. It is also essential that all activity is, as far as possible, coordinated in a coherent Regional Trails www.southeastwalks.com way in order to achieve maximum synergy between the various business Rural Ways www.ruralways.org.uk/kent activities, to lever maximum economic advantages. Hidden Britain www.hidden-britain.co.uk Thus for example the local antiques barn (Bagham Barn) represents a The Kent Tourism Alliance www.kenttourism.co.uk key party of this economic revitalisation. In itself it will not foster great Kent Downs ANOB www.kentdowns.org.uk changes, but as part of a broader offer, if begins to place Chilham on In any event this cannot be done alone. It needs to be done in the map as a place to spend time enjoying some speciality shopping conjunction with Ashford Borough Council, KCC, Kent Downs AONB unit, (on a small, human scale). CABE, English Heritage, Tourism South East, etc. For this reason it is essential that ways are found for local businesses to Mention also needs to be made here of the 2012 Olympics. Estimates of communicate and co-ordinate activities. A monthly meeting in the pub expected visitor numbers in the summer of 2012 vary enormously, but it would be no bad start, but perhaps more formal mechanisms could be is clear that there will be many more visitors (from the UK and abroad) in found. the south east and Chilham should focus now upon how it will acquire a CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE share of this market.

Chilham – economic regeneration 16.3 5. Funding and Finance If the White Hart could be revitalised as a ‘gastro-pub’ serving quality food and drink, then the benefits could become much more Sources of funding and finance need to be investigated. This should substantial: include financial incentives and financial holidays (e.g. business rates) as well as sources of loans/grants. •A relatively wealthy local market, combined with tourists and weekenders would create demand throughout the year and (owing to

the tourist market) throughout the week, largely avoiding seasonal 6. Implementation and Quick Wins slumps; It is necessary to construct a roadmap that focuses on the longer term •Associated B&B provision would help keep tourists in the area, but also looks for some early quick wins. Certainly many of the proposals increasing demand for wining & dining, especially if retail outlets in the in this report will bring early quick wins that will have a substantial impact village were to provide additional attractions; upon Chilham’s ‘offer’. •Tie-ins with local weddings etc. offer even greater opportunity (receptions, weekenders, etc.). Events and Occasions There are many examples in the UK of pubs offering high quality food, often in villages much smaller than Chilham and with far less to offer Regular events such as annual fairs etc., offer opportunities to promote than Chilham. If the mix is right, there is no reason why a pub of this type Chilham, as well as to encourage new and return visits to the village. could not be turning over £300,000 - £400,000 plus, on food and drink Consideration should therefore be given to making more of the popular alone. Plus of course the associated benefits of additional tourism, Pilgrims Fayre, held in the Village Square on the Spring Bank Holiday employment creation, subsidiary service businesses (foods need to buy each year, or even perhaps to resurrecting a long lost “event” – such as quality food) etc. Sir Dudley Digges’ Annual race (stopped in 1850) or the Marymas Fair in August.

Benefits It is difficult at this stage to quantify the benefits that would come to Chilham if such a strategy were implemented. This is because: • Modest beginnings will hopefully lead to considerable benefits in the medium term. • The benefits will extend far beyond the turnover of some new r etail outlets in the centre of the village. Support industries (wholesale delivery of goods, hotel laundering and cleaning, ICT support, accountants, etc.) will all be needed. However as a broad estimate, a revitalised Chilham, with a modest number (3 - 4) of new tourist retail outlets of various kinds and a degree of accommodation provision could readily bring an extra £300,000 - £400,000 a year into Chilham. We consider that if the White Horse became a recognised venue, a destination in its own right, the true revenue to Chilham would be a multiple of this. CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Chilham - delivery – costs 17.0 Methodology Summary costs

The budget estimate relates to two design projects for Chilham. One is PROJECT 1 – SUMMARY OF COSTS £ for a proposal for the village square and the second is for alterations Paving 94,640 and upgrades to the existing entrance route and car park on Taylor’s Hill. Our brief is to provide an estimate of the costs at present day rates Additional hard landscaping items 50,000 for the proposed development. We are unaware of any previous cost Soft landscape 14,755 reports carried out for this project. Sub total 159,395 The next stage would be to prepare detail briefs to progress the design drawings and prepare a more detailed specification detailing the Preliminaries 15% 23,909 specific proposals for the works. From this information the project can Contingency 15% 23,909 be worked up into a full tendering document, and cost checked at all Maintenance 15% 23,909 stages of the design process. A value management/engineering session may be appropriate to ensure value for money is maintained. Sub total 231,123 Project Management The pricing is based at present day values and price may be affected 4% 9,245 and procurement by programme. Design and 16% 36,980 The following are not included in this project estimate. engineering Consultation 5% 11,556

• Value Added Tax Total 288,903 • Land purchase and legal fees PROJECT 2 – SUMMARY OF COSTS £ • Planning and other Local Authority charges Paving 95,500 • Contributions to Section 106 agreements Additional hard landscaping items 34,600 • Finance Charges Soft landscape 66,250 • Marketing costs Sub total 196,350 • Any costs caused by 'Third Party Rights‘ Preliminaries 15% 29,453 • Specialist Security measures Contingency 15% 29,453 Maintenance 15% 29,453 Sub total 284,708 Project Management 4% 11,388 and procurement Design and 16% 45,553 engineering Consultation 5% 14,235

Total 355,884 CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham - delivery – project action plan 18.0 Shift of responsibility Shift of responsibility

The strategy for the delivery of a revitalised community square and The delivery and ownership / care of the scheme needs to be environs for Chilham needs to focus on ‘facilitation’ by a specialist managed by a core team of key stakeholders including representatives expert rather than the expert providing a fixed solution for current of all the consultation groups that were involved in this study. We would political, physical and social issues. The successful delivery and renewal recommend that an office was set up as close to the village square as of new public space requires a different management strategy than possible, that would be a place to meet and discuss community issues has been traditionally undertaken. The problem solving ability actually as well as hold archive material. Weekly ‘surgeries’ for the discussion of lies within the social groups that have been targeted for the community issues could be held. consultation exercises and we are focussed on capturing of these ideas It would be a place to link up and would become a new focus and and processing them into a feasible and deliverable solution. Employing place of activity for Chilham. Combining this office with other functions and harnessing the power and knowledge of society is the key principle such as permanent exhibition space, tourist information centre and of this strategy. existing business should be considered. A shop front on the village For the purposes of securing a design framework and funding, a square would be ideal! scheme has been drawn up for this feasibility study. It addresses current technical constraints, considering access, highways requirements and safety as well as responding to the needs of the user groups as far as The next steps possible. It has been costed to provide guidance on the amount required to take the scheme forward for funding applications. The scheme needs to be taken forward to a detailed design in close We propose that the momentum generated so far by this project is consultation with the target audiences and statutory consultees to maintained by the creation of a project plan that highlights a number of ensure that the scheme is successful and fulfils the identified aspirations. milestone achievements and dates. The first phase of this plan would be to draw together the technical officers and key stakeholders in a meeting to discuss the way forward and to identify funding Priority Capital Projects opportunities. Attendees might include representatives from the AONB, ABC, CPC, Hidden Britain, Defra, PROW etc. In close consultation with these stakeholders, a detailed design needs to The table on the following page sets out a framework for taking forward be produced for the public realm of Chilham alongside the other initiatives to enhance Chilham. These have developed out of the development of a number of social enterprise projects such as the community consultation exercise and responsibility for its creation of a business link group, residents association or events implementation should be shared. The development of this project list committee for example. should be driven forward by the Parish Council. Avenues for funding applications need to be explored to combine a range of funds that we believe may be available but are currently being spent independently or are underused. A new round of funding to drive this study forward would need to be secured.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates Chilham - delivery – priority projects 18.1 PRIORITY PROJECTS

COMMUNITY

ISSUES ASPIRATIONS PROJECTS PROPOSED SUGGESTED RESPONSIBILITY TIMESCALE

1. ECONOMY: • Link businesses Now Financial and economic advice sought from council and supporting economic • Group promotion Now consultants. • Fragmentation • Join together • Community support – food miles etc Now • Lack of local support • Promote one another • Regeneration business plan for village required. Now • Hard work to keep going • Better communications

2. SUSTAINABLE TOURISM: • Comprehensive route map with clarified pilgrims Now PROW dept, destination consultants, way. Events committee • Coordinate events calendar • Impact on residents • Clarify routes and parking Soon on a single map • Collection of historical research into village records • No where to go Now • Link tourist destinations • Lack of destinations

3. TRAFFIC AND ACCESS • Redesigned village square access routes Now Parish Council • Enhance current approach route and car park Now Parish Council • Congestion • Clarity • Consider alternative entrance into village • Danger • Legibility • Encourage sustainable forms of transport - bike rally Later Parish Council etc. • Confusion • Safe environment • School run

4. SENSE OF PLACE AND CHARACTER • Prepare specific palette of materials and brand for Now Design consultants, Destination / PR Chilham. consultants. • Reflect aspirations for character of wider ANOB • Lack of character in square design • Individuality Now • Poor quality detailing • High quality • Poor signage • Attractive environment

5. CUSTODIANSHIP • Continued programme of development with Now Consultation consultant community, including involvement in design and implementation programmes • Lack of enthusiasm • Share ownership and pride • Setting up working groups to tackle each subject heading • One person doing it all • All work together as one to Soon make a difference. • Creation of project office in square / village for • Been here before, no one delivers community use – surgeries, exhibitions. Soon Parish Council. CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates 19.0

conclusion Public spaces are a window on society. They show what society looks like, how the community works together and what it finds important.

Through public consultation, it is clear that Chilham square represents the state of the community at present but definitely not their aspirations. There is now an almost unanimous call for change as the community realise what has become important to them and what are the key priorities.

The development of a vision and design of a space must be developed closely with the users of a space and experts from a range of disciplines. This holistic approach aims to translate political aims and spatial visions into a functional design that respects the sensitive historical setting and does justice to the various meanings of public space.

The public space of Chilham needs to become more accessible to older and disabled people by including the health and social services in the next stages of the design.

Chilham holds a range of valuable assets that need to be managed in a sensitive way. This study has raised awareness of these assets and become a catalyst for community participation and interpretation. We hope that this is just the start of a positive change for Chilham and must be seen as one of the most valuable opportunities to leave a legacy for future generations by the current community.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates 20.0

bibliography Hamilton-Baillie, B. (2004) A street revolution. Green Places, June 2004 pp 20-23. CABE Space (2002) Paving the Way; How we achieve clean, safe and attractive streets. London, CABE Space. CABE Space (2004) The Value of Public Space: How high quality parks and public spaces create economic, social and environmental value. London, CABE space. CABE Space (2004) What would you do with this space? Involving young people in the design and care of urban spaces. London, CABE Space. CABE Space (2004) Parks and squares: who cares? London, CABE Space. CABE Space (2005) What are we scared of? The Value of risk in designing pubic space. London, CABE Space. Chilham Parish Appraisal Group (1996) The Parish of Chilham; An appraisal published under the auspices of Chilham Parish Council. Kent, Chilham Parish Appraisal Group. Chilham Parish Council (2005) Chilham Parish Design Statement. Chilham Parish Council. Chilham Parish Council (2006). Chilham Guide. Plus Publishing Services, Kent. Halcrow (2006) The Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Streetscape Design Handbook; A shared Space Approach. Stage 1 Consultation Draft. Kent, Kent Downs ANOB Unit and Kent County Council. Holbrook, D. (2006) Chilham Village Conservation Area including Mountain Street and Chilham Mill. The Kent Design Initiative (2005) Kent Design Guide. Peters, M. H. (1995). History of the House. Reed, T. (1996) Guide to Chilham. London, Lithosphere Ltd, CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates 21.0

acknowledgements We would like to record our gratitude to the people of Chilham who have helped make this project happen. In particular, our thanks goes to Robert Berry of Chilham Parish Council and Helen Kirwan of the Chilham Environmental Protection Society, who have undertaken a considerable amount of work to set this project rolling. Also a special thanks to Michael Peters, the archivist at the Castle; Anna Vitiello and Helen Kirwan for carrying out historical research, and to Stuart and Tessa Wheeler, the present owners of the castle for allowing us access to the castle archives. To the pupils and staff at St Marys Primary School for assisting in the design of the square and to Chris Duncan for his help and allowing us the use of the Church for the public exhibition.

Thank you to the whole community of Chilham, for attending the workshops, filling in questionnaires and attending the exhibition. We hope that this is just the beginning of a positive change and your involvement is vital to the process.

Rummey Design Associates, June 2006.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates

Chilham Village Square Enhancement Scheme Appendix A – public consultation report

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates

PUBLIC CONSULTATION: June 2006

Summary of Feedback

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates CONSULTATION PROGRAMME

Rummey Design Associates were appointed to develop and deliver an effective public consultation programme as an integral part of the feasibility study for the renovation of Chilham Square and enhancement of its environs. This report outlines the programme of activity during the month of June and summarises the feedback received. The programme of activity facilitated by Rummey Design Associates was as follows: •Two half day creative workshops for pupils of varying ages from St Mary’s Primary School - Monday 5 June. •A series of six highly participative workshops for councillors, council officers, directly affected residents, local businesses and special interest groups - Monday 12 and Tuesday 13 June. •A questionnaire, distributed to the homes of all Chilham parishioners and available at the village post office, the church and the pubs. Deadline for responses 30 June. •An exhibition of the children’s work and details of the project displayed at St Mary’s Church over a three week period commencing 17 June. •Supporting editorial in the Parish News.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ST MARY’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

In part one of the workshops, pupils were asked to say what they liked and disliked about Chilham and present back their thoughts to the group. A summary of likes and dislikes is as follows: Likes: The post office; the pubs; play park; the square; recreation ground; castle grounds; play park; the square; the sports centre; old buildings; the woods; how the fields are still used as countryside for farming; the houses; the tennis courts; the school; the church; the fields; the historic places; the tea rooms; the shops; the environment we are in; the buildings are very nice; the trees.

Dislikes: The cars driving up and down School Hill, the toilets, the pub; the car park; the post office because it is too small; the school playground because it is too small; the A28 because my dog keeps getting run over; the litter people always throw on the floor; busy roads; the road near the recreation ground because the cars go too fast; graveyard; the toilets stink; the school car park is too small; the cars driving up and down Taylors Hill fast; the hills being so busy; people leaving dog mess around; litter over the floor; the graveyard grass needs cutting; cars parking in the square.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ST MARY’S PRIMARY SCHOOL

In part two of the workshops, pupils worked in small groups and used a base plan of the village to complete one of the following tasks: •Design an ‘ideal’ Village Square for Chilham •Plan a Village event •Design a Flag or Coat of Arms symbolising Chilham The pupils’ work went on display, as part of a public exhibition at St Mary’s Church, commencing 17 June.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates WORKSHOP PROGRAMME

A series of six workshops were held in over two days in the village hall. The format was the same for each workshop, the groups as follows: •Monday Session One: Council Officers •Monday Session Two: Parish, Borough and County Councillors •Tuesday Session Three: Business Community •Tuesday Session Four: Affected Residents •Tuesday Session Five: Special Interest Groups •Tuesday Session Six: Affected Residents Facilitated by Rummey Design Associates, participants were taken through the project brief, and key findings to-date, including the history of Chilham, its role in the rural economy, and the consultant team’s initial thoughts. The workshops were attended by between 6 and 20 participants. The face to face presentation was supported by information boards that formed part of the exhibition on display at the Church.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates KEY ISSUES

Participants were asked to work in smaller groups to discuss and 1. Economy identify the key issues. These were recorded onto postcards and •Economy categorised under the five headings outlined by Defra: •Sustainable tourism •Local economy is marginal / fragile 1. Economy •Landscape / beauty of Chilham is under threat without stronger 2. Sustainable Tourism economy •Most people who live here do not need local economy 3. Traffic & Access •Loss of trade 4. Sense of Place and Character •Commercial units applying for residential use •The peacock – poor state of repair 5. Ownership and Management •Peacock – empty •It’s just residential •Residents not interested in business enterprise, particularly visitors / Each group then presented their thoughts to the whole group. tourism A summary of the issues highlighted appears on the following pages: •People do not like change •Protect existing traders

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates KEY ISSUES

2. Sustainable Tourism •Visitors don’t stay for more than 30 mins •Nothing to see •No longer a destination now the castle has closed •Not welcoming for tourists •Castle grounds closure •Approach to the church gloomy •Not a lot to do in Chilham •Nothing to see •A lot of walkers coming through •Not welcoming for tourists •Chilham lacks a focus for visitors •Approach to the church gloomy •Jousting brought in sizable numbers; now Chilham lacks the attraction •Nothing to offer people when they come •People don’t stay when they come •No ‘draw’ for tourists •No cohesive approach to promoting Chilham •Tourists comment that Chilham is a lovely place but cars look awful. •No need for Castle to open the grounds Enhanced interest needed for visitors •Highly seasonal nature of tourists / short day visitors •People don’t linger – no room for people to enjoy it. •“Limited offer” •No May Fair. No support from council •What are the attractions to encourage spending? •Where is the real benefit from tourists? •Chilham is on world map but nothing to do when visitors get here •Tourist info is a disgrace! •Arrival and exit – people go too quickly •Equestrian events segregated from the Castle creating barriers to •Trains being reduced from six times to twice a day activity •Retailers apathetic •Not ready for tourists •Chilham castle closure •Lack of positive visitor experience •Closure of castle for tourists •Lack of attraction for visitors. •No local support for businesses •Nowhere for visitors to go. Copper Kettle / pub / Gift shop/ Church. •Where are the attractions?

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ISSUES

3. Traffic & Access

Traffic •Traffic flow •Walkers leave cars all day. •Too many cars / commercial vehicles •Enforcement of residents parking. •Traffic volume •Parking in village square. •Square used as a through road •Congestion in the square. •Tourists don’t understand one-way system. •Parking in street – access to post office. •Traffic problem •Access for emergency vehicles into churchyard and square often •Traffic cutting through village (safety issue) impossible. •Heavily congested route •Car parking security problems •Safety and access •Walkers and cyclists parking in square. •Traffic and access •Chaotic parking •Ease congestion from bottlenecks •Car park underused at Taylors Hill. •Safety for children to and from car park •Parking in the square. •Parents dropping off their children •No yellow lines. •Conflict of two way traffic in approach roads •Parking in square for commuters – not enough parking at station. •Parking and associated traffic in the square •Poor drainage in Taylors Hill car park. •School – pickup causes congestion •No parking in square will encourage parking on streets. •Parking in square. Parking •Residents need to park outside their house. •Village square parking (remove cars?) •Deliveries to pub block access. •Parking for Church services essential. Congregation are dwindling. •Can’t have an all car-dominated area in Village Square. •Parking in “The Street “ is bad. •No feature / focal point in square. •Parking outside P.O. is a problem •Taylors Hill car park not welcoming. •Street parking needs looking at in entirety before it becomes an •Toilets are the focus of interest! explosive issue. •Cars in Square not secure •All the streets are lined with cars. •Crime rate has increased. Theft of property cars and damage to cars. •Parking in “The Street” is a problem. •Security in car park •Parking problems hinder local business •School – pickup causes congestion •Taylors Hil car park underused. •Increased numbers in Church •Recreational cyclists / walkers cause congestion by parking in square.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ISSUES

3. Traffic & Access

Access •Access to square difficult •Access for deliveries and for emergency vehicles •Access for fire engines and Ambulances •Clear access for emergency vehicles •Access for the physically disabled •Danger – lack of access for emergency services

Cars v Pedestrians •Safe environment for children and adults to walk in the square •It should be possible to combine transport and pedestrians this will ask respect from drivers •Confrontation between drivers •Make square more pedestrian orientated •No footpath from school to Old Wives Lees – reduces school numbers (car share) •Trains + Transport network •Traffic orientation + flow •Approach roads unsuitable for motorised vehicles? •Limited parking for residents. •Parents value the opportunity to meet and talk before collecting children. •Humbrook La, Humbrook Close, Pu hv junction. Street parking •Speed, rat-run •Shottenden / Old Wives Lees don’t make use of recreation ground / Village Hall. •Extended Schools agenda (facilities required 8 – 6pm) soft & hard space required

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ISSUES 4. Sense of Place and Character •Pub impacts on environment - concerns over parking and noise – lack •Antique shop in square not open of respect •Derelict / semi-derelict property - antiques shop •Environmental issues re. Surrounding natural landscapes •Telephone Exchange is a real eyesore •School in wrong place •Use of Buildings •Anti-social behaviour •Make current businesses more attractive. •Centre of Village activity not well signed. •Protection of buildings by owners and from the traffic •Peacock – as a building single issue in square •No shade in car park (more trees?) •When the TV company came, the square was lovely, we all came out •Narrow lanes not inviting to sit and enjoy the environment •Not aesthetically pleasing. Natural way of concealment. •No lighting – station walk and street Signage •Archaeological interests neglected – directions poor. •Lack of information •If square is improved, drinkers at pub could dominate square •Entry signage / sense of place to Chilham from A252 not present •No sense of place / character •Signage / orientation “awful” •Trees / greenery •No signage showing what Chilham actually has to offer. Stour Valley •Need to give life to the village Walk boards / Pilgrims way, Historic snapshots etc •Lack of assets •Signage inadequate leading up to square. Essential signage •No May Fayre! •No signage for businesses not located in the square •Not Welcoming – no seating •Confused signage •Lack of Greenery •Bad signage •No greenery. No people. No flowers. No living things. •No village sign •Nowhere to sit •Signage •Buildings being damaged by vehicles in Church Lane •No-where to find ‘extraordinary’ – WEBSITE providing info. Increasing •Nowhere to sit – lovely when Miss Marple was filmed amount •Nothing for young people •Signage (car park / pedestrians / local signage) walking, cycling, not •Lack of greenery using car park •Vandalism

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ISSUES 5. Ownership & Management •Ownership of the square. •Lack of political support for local initiatives - obstruction and increased costs. •Lack of support from local authorities Ashford Borough Council and Kent County Council / Right on the border with Canterbury Borough Council •Ownership and management •Ownership and management of Chilham. •Lack of co-operation amongst different local groups. •Need for Chilham plc •Lack of community events. •Residents and Traders lack communication. •No ownership by residents. •Square doesn’t just belong to Chilham •Enforcement. •Ownership of Pub – White Horse. •Dwindling economy – closure of local businesses – church not part of community.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ASPIRATIONS 1. Economy •Space for a farmers’ market •Taxi service! •Peacock to be taken over and re-used for benefit of community e.g. •Promote all businesses café •Think about and support local business •Farmers’ market •Farmers Market in the square, or church or recreation ground? •Farmers’ market including farm shop •More shops (over time) •Encourage use of the square •Industrial Area unused – waste of space. Could bring jobs. What •Farmer’s market / Christmas market happened to hotel? •Specialised market carefully managed / controlled •Support small businesses •Fortnightly market •Market in the square to give businesses a boost! •Farmers markets •Encourage local business to diversify, not duplicate •Weddings – life – funerals – continuation of traditions, help maintain parties – May fare •Market food stalls, with medieval theme •Morris dancers – Pilgrim’s Way. Traditions to be respected •Co-op. Return to active business •Local business, active shops •Need markets! Probably specialised •Maintain local economy. Sustainable and appropriate •Trotts to promote horse riding •Specialised themed markets asparagus fair, strawberries, cheese, poultry, lamb •Chicken Fair •Bring more shops back! Another Co-op store to buy Peacock! •Create Chilham business group •Start up new business with young people •French and German signage

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ASPIRATIONS 2. Sustainable Tourism •Somewhere genuinely good to eat and drink •Utilise the Peacock to promote historical area – heritage centre •Concerts •More shops? •How about a music stand for summer evening plays etc. •Castle Garden open •Free space in the middle of the square for a bandstand. This could •A small centre for information and to show the history of Chilham be used for many entertainments and pull community together as well •Improved tourist information. (Signs featuring timeline / heritage) as provide something for tourists •Tour of Chilham, tour guide •Picnic area •Maximise assets, e.g. Elephant house with signage •May Fayre! •Be more welcoming / generous to tourists •Museum - local and Chilham •Horse drawn carriages •Museum info on history •Jugglers •Better use of lakes and river (fishermen unwelcoming). Small peaceful •Better visual information / signage rowing boats? •Hold events in the square •Greater choice of places to stay •Encourage local people to sit and meet and talk in square •Local person/ Blue Badge Guide, Chilham Tour •See square as the main attraction not the castle •Sustain visitors who come •Make it feel special for residents, not just visitors •Blue badge guides •Lack of attraction for visitors •Themed markets •Nowhere for visitors to go. Limited offer - Copper Kettle / pub / Gift •Need to generate income from tourists shop/ Church •Give tour with objective of seeing Castle through new gates White •More visitors in square horse, gift shop, coffee houses •Green the square? •Race? •No planting but perhaps a single focal point? •Equestrian events •Restaurant to replace teashop •May Fayre •Promote tourism not parking. More welcoming •Interpretation centre, heritage centre in the Church •Picnic area in the woodland? •Focal point in centre of Square •Change use of square for community •Improve the area - it has a remarkable succession of History •Lost Landscapes – promote existing info / knowledge •Communicate facilities available within the parish •Cyclists, horse riders •Themed events spread out over summer •Organised walk from car park around the village •Display cases in the Square with information •People to enjoy area for beauty that it holds •Manage visitors into car park and greet them – “This is Chilham” •Cycle parking provision. Ramblers North Downs Start point •Themed cultural events e.g. concerts linked to the church •Make better use of resources •Other activities in the Square to encourage people to linger •Signage needs to be better •More use of recreational and sports facilities •Encourage visitors to come and spend more time / money here •Feature in the Square that promotes Chilham •Surrounding area to be packaged to attract everyone into the Village •Link between info + restaurant. (Gift shop in Wye has mini tourist info) •May fair to be a traditional yearly event for village

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ASPIRATIONS 3. Traffic and Access •40 miles per hour speed limit on A252 enforced by narrowing road •Integrated Transport from Young Manor farm to Shalmsford St •One – way traffic up School Hill and down Church + Taylors Hill •Traffic free zone for the whole village except for residents access •Disabled area. Drop off area •Pedestrianise Taylors Hill (Traffic calming) •Close access to village beyond car park •Positive, decisive assertive traffic management and calming. •Unsafe pedestrian (walking bus) access •Traffic calming •Unsafe traffic flow •Traffic management •Close village off to motorised traffic •Traffic calming – speed bumps! They work. •Controlled parking needed in village square •Traffic – led away from the square. Health and Safety. •Garages or secure areas for residents in Taylors car park •Restrict the times when you let cars into square? (still need •Clear square of parking – must have parking for residents and throughput) disabled •“Access only” signage up Taylors Hill •Taylor’s Hill made safer for walking bus •Managed Traffic •One way traffic? •One way traffic •Pedestrianise it like in the T.V. production •Two-way traffic required at School Hill •Improve safety at junctions into village •Rationalise traffic – one way from Taylors Hill, two way down to the •Emergency vehicle space in square – deterrents + access / turning school space. •Traffic flow (1 or 2 way) •Better access for coaches •Pelican crossing at crossing spot on the A252 •Remove the misleading signs on village approach that positively •Encouragement of cyclists – cycle lanes on A252 and A28 direct vehicles to square •Traffic calming on approaches to square •Keep trains going •Right of Way improvement plan •Planters to use to help traffic flow / calming •Footpath to Old Wives Lees to Shottenden •Change entrance to village / new car park in branch lane •Footpath links need enhancing •Pedestrianise streets •Cycle ways, bridleways, footpaths, Chilham Molash along A252 •Need to make Taylors Hill attractive •Ease congestion. Improve car security •A250 + A28 junction needs to be a roundabout •Improve access and visual impact to village •Appropriate signs. Signs for Tudor square, road signs for small roads •No large vehicles in square and street •No access from Canterbury? Re- direction •Pedestrians given priority over cars •Horse drawn transport for tourists and for weddings and locals •Bagham Junction – key to better traffic management elsewhere – Funnel visitors to Taylors Hill and avoid Branch Lane access

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ASPIRATIONS 3. Traffic and Access

Parking •Stop visitors parking in side roads •At least once a week, to have no cars in Village square •Improve security of Taylor’s Hill car park •Parking permits for residents •Public car park should be improved. Perhaps include a picnic site. •Residents reserved parking in car park Stop overnight parking in square! •Parking for residents in car park •Improved square parking – more use of Taylors Hill car park •Make Taylors Hill Car park more attractive •Residents’ parking needed •Walking bus from Taylors Hil (Grant?) •Decent sized station car park. Each 10 minutes on Railway Fast •Increased numbers in Church carriage going to Canterbury and Ashford •Structured organised parking solely for residents Public Transport •Car park off avenue at Bagham end •Better local transport •Parking needed in the square •Chilham Station - walking routes into village seriously to be •Car park moved to The Avenue at / near telephone exchange considered. •Better signage to car park •Seasonal parking controls •Residents parking only for village square •Improve entrance to car park. Make it more welcoming / refreshments •Charge for parking in square? Residents parking? •Security in car park •Parking at Taylors Hill car park, then visitors encouraged to walk around •Allow residents parking in village square •Marked residents only parking bays on square and roads leading up to square. •Make square no longer a car park •Residents only •Reduced parking •Residents parking only in The Square and streets leading up to •Private residents only car park. To take displaced cars from Chilham Square. Land needed •Residents parking only

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ASPIRATIONS 4. Sense of Place and Character •Local sculpture or artworks integrated around village. •Focus on increased activity, improved amenities in the square. •Nature / art attractions (Farmers market / events etc) – increase care of / respect for square – •Nature art development will result in re-thinking of parking •Better tourist information. Welcoming – for residents and tourists •Clear signage at all 4 corners – posts and chain links in medieval •Welcoming positive signage about parking fashion •“Welcome” at Chilham Station •Re-directing people using different coloured surface •Welcoming signs: Enamel. Beautiful •Increase dwell time by creating focal point in village square •Improved signs to village and improve visual impact when entering •Places to sit and linger village from all roads. •Pub noise abatement. Parking needed •Greenery •Aesthetic view from my window •Information Board •Additional hard and soft landscaping •Tables and chairs outside and cafes and ice-cream parlour •Focal point in heart of square •Sense of arrival •Green - public car park, picnic area •People friendly space / sensational •Mini bandstand – look alike! •A sense of arrival badly needed •Need better photographic opportunities for weddings and tourists •Sign to St Mary’s Church •Green focal points •Green Taylors car park picnic area •Lighting needs to be increased •Flower patch or green patch before Woolpack •Feature in Square •Greener The Square •Hide bins •Central focus i.e. Fountain Village cross/sign •Seats, grass, decent street furniture •Grassed area •Sealed knot medieval events •Square to be used more. Farmers markets etc? •Tethers for horses •Very discrete lighting •More greenery and seating in square •Encourage residents to keep lights on •Whatever residents decide what they would like – done sensitively that •Some soft / hard landscaping in square including seating reflect rural character. Take away needless signage •Parking restricted for residents and disabled •Make more of assets using natural materials •Pub owners encouraged to hide bins as noted for car park •Saddler (to support equestrian need) •Trees and green in the square and benches •Tether stands •Soften? Square surface reconsidered – colour-texture •Equestrian feature in village square? •Soft and hard landscaping •Making village square a shared space •Seating •Make square more of a focal point •Lime trees •Gateway - square should enhance + support community life.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ASPIRATIONS 4. Sense of Place and Character

The Square •Pedestrianise roads •Provide more information •Interpretation and information about Chilham history •Some kind of attraction •Improve layout and approach •Square – small circular raised area to allow musicians sit and linger •Chilham as a staging post of the Pilgrims way •Improve attractions. Market stalls with recreation ground •Movement up from Woolpack end to square. •Improve quality of life. •Seating •Central fountain and seats.

Taylors Hill car park •Parking signage promoting “FREE” •How about making the car park at the bottom of the Village more attractive •Make Taylor’s Hill Car Park more attractive •To be made more attractive and welcoming. •Trees •Marked bays •Signs promoting FREE! Taylors Car Park •Increase use of Taylors Hill Car Park •Lighting / security in Taylors Hill car park •Mothers collecting kids from school should be encouraged to park in Taylors Hill •Market, Village shop, Jazz / other events. •Pilgrim’s way walk to create benefits for school •Need attractions e.g. markets •Distinctiveness •Enough bins at lay–bys too.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates ASPIRATIONS 5. Ownership and Management 6. Other •Revive the cricket team! •Camp Site No Change •Museum – local archaeology, history and fossils for education •I like it as it is purposes, visiting schools as well as local people and visitors •No change? •Community spirit •No change from present •Residents Association •Local traders regular (same) venue to promote economy Police •Less fragmented community •Community police officer •Co-ordination people working together •Chilham needs to start thinking as a village community - not as individuals •More dynamic community – people working together •More events for local people (Parish) •Greater sense of community •Could North Downs Way team promote the May Fayre? •Management company to run shows etc. •Need to strengthen the links between church and community •Lack of leadership and cohesion •If anyone would take a lead should it not be parish council •Adopted - road? We could own it. What are the possibilities / legal Issues •Need business link •Adopted - road? We could own it. What are the possibilities / legal Issues •Need business link •Local authorities positively anti – e.g Farmers markets, May fayre •Maximise the church as an asset •Maximise Church as asset / visitor centre •Castle open Monthly •School access to castle. Valuable education benefits •Chilham showcase at School for visitors, tourists. “Meet the School” •School events / links to increase / be strengthened •More community facilities in Rec Ground •Better use of recreation ground?

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

1000 questionnaires were printed, and distributed to every Chilham household. They were also available from the church, the post office and pub. 160 completed questionnaires were returned, with a summary of results as follows: •gift shop; •63% of respondents live in Chilham; 24% live in Old Wives Lees and less •the Woolpack; than 13% live in Shottenden. •business and social; •31% work in Chilham Parish; 19% work in Canterbury; 10% in Ashford; •tennis; 40% work in other locations OR are retired. •village hall; •29% of respondents were 65 years of age or older; 26% between 56 •events at the church; and 65; 19% between 46 and 55; 12% between 36 and 45; less than 14% 35 years old or younger. •Farm shop •44% of respondents use Chilham daily; 25% at least twice a week; 15% •Garage; once a week; less than 16% visit once a fortnight, once a month or less •Live in Chilham, to go home; frequently. •Passing through to get to highway and to get to the train station; •Sight seeing with visitors. Respondents were asked to note the purpose of their visit / how they The post office is listed most frequently as the reason for using the use Chilham village. These are listed as follows: village, and clearly plays a critical part in the community.

•leisure (pub, walking, cycling, leisure fields); Respondents were asked to describe Chilham as it is now: •shopping, post office, social; •At a crossroads between a community and a dormitory – risk of •picking up children from primary school; losing character;

•working in the village; •A pretty village with a big car park in the middle; •An uncontrolled car park – no community spirit – pretty but going •visiting family and friends, doctor’s surgery and church; down hill – unloved; •recycling in car park; •Picturesque and pretty location the prettiest village in Kent;

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked to describe Chilham as it is now: •Confusing – used to be one way – now two way?? Parking in square is •Ageing, crowded with cars; all over the place; •One large car park, leaving little room for any improvement that •The square and high street – glorified car parks – the high street being may be forthcoming; very dangerous for pedestrians; •Picturesque and peaceful; •A unique and beautiful urban space, made sterile by its current •Perfect, no need to change it; domination by cars; •Dead; •Needs more life to it; •I would like to state ‘quaint’ but with cars in the square it deletes •A good community to live in; the ancient history; •Beautiful medieval village, thoroughly spoilt by parking of cars; Pretty •Charming, delightful, but spoiled by traffic – both congestion and tourist attraction – but square not at its best during the day due to parking in the square; parked cars; Typical village, church, post office, pubs, fruit farm, garage; •Picturesque, tranquil, peaceful and quiet; •Dull, lifeless, sleepy, looks full of character but is characterless, Dead; •Reasonable except for the traffic problems. Much the same as any other village of this size. Increased traffic, less shops; •A commercialised tourist attraction; •Quaint; •Good in some parts, neglected in others; •A beautiful, typically English country village – calm and tranquil •Sadly a village with expensive houses and only a post office and gift and long may it continue to be so; shop; •Perfect; •Beautiful, peaceful place,old; •Beautiful, apart from the square; •Fossilized;

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked to describe Chilham as it is now: •In the 50s 60s and 70s there were a variety of shops but now there are •A lovely square, spoilt by the square used as a car park; hardly any •A unique traditional village square of great tourist interest; •Very old fashioned, not moving with the times – but well kept and •Overcrowded village square by vehicles; cared for; •Beautiful village rather cluttered with cars, the cars parked in the •A beautiful village spoilt by too many cars parked in the square; centre of the square are used as a roundabout; •Quite a pretty village but getting very run down; •Visitors drive past the car park in Taylor’s Hill and park in the square; •A chocolate box square with interesting buildings in and around; •Postcard – chocolate box image for visitors; •A beautiful, typically English country village – calm and tranquil and •Agreeable people, attractive houses but lacking some attraction for long may it continue to be so; visitors, such as high-class restaurant in the Square; •Perfect; •A beautiful village with a busy, thriving community; businesses are •Picturesque but lack sufficient interest for visitors; struggling however; •Picturesque; •Popular with tourists, though this needs to be developed and managed; Untidy; •Overrun with cars; •Swamped with cars; Average – generally untidy (too many overgrown •Unspoilt, original – sleepily rural and old fashioned and attractive – the hedgerows and footpaths); space looked its best when they were filming there; •A unique and very beautiful village with an outstanding square, •Generally well kept and picturesque; enclosed by medieval houses and punctuated at either end by a •Wonderful place to live and work, traditional; church and castle;

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked to describe Chilham as it is now: •Picturesque but socially and culturally moribund. It doesn’t appear to •Picturesque but lack sufficient interest for visitors; relate to the rest of the parish. It is rare to see Chilham Villagers at Old •Picturesque; Wives Lees events; •Overrun with cars; •Spoilt; •Unspoilt, original – sleepily rural and old fashioned and attractive – the •Picturesque centre, attractive to visitors, few facilities, spin off business space looked its best when they were filming there; could follow increased tourism within the castle grounds; •Generally well kept and picturesque; •Pretty; •The loveliest village in Kent, blighted by parked cars. •Cars parked everywhere; •Abused with no respect for villagers, especially from the pub. •Going down hill; •A glorified car park; •Ageing, crowded with cars; •Well maintained; •Much the same as any other village of this size. Increased traffic, less shops; •Very nice place, all visitors think so. For Heaven’s Sake, don’t change anything. Why and who are thinking of improving things. Alter •Beautiful, apart from the square; anything and people won’t relate to the ‘pretty village of Chilham’; •One large car park, leaving little room for any improvement that may •Cluttered; be forthcoming; •A slowly crumbling part of our national heritage that only serves as a •Quaint; car park and dumping ground for old cars; •Very old fashioned, not moving with the times – but well kept and •A great place to live but not as good as it used to be; cared for; •Lovely but overcrowded with cars; •A beautiful village spoilt by too many cars parked in the square; •Compared to villages such as Wye, and Bridge, lacking facilities; •Quite a pretty village but getting very run down; •A very picturesque village spoiled by parked cars; •A chocolate box square with interesting buildings in and around;

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked about their concerns for the village: •Lack of community – integrate village centre with outlying plans; •No shops; •Too many cars and the castle is not open to the public; •The square has become a glorified car park and sometimes race course. There has been some unsympathetic housing development •Taylor’s Hill car park not being used. H&S issues with parking in the (i.e. in the 50s Hambrook Lane – and recently. The development square – the ‘rally’ school run, nothing for tourists to see – can’t even sit opposite the surgery). There isn’t sufficient incentive to linger in the down; square and take in the ambience; •Chilham gets more recognition than Shottenden or Old Wives Lees •Although it’s a 20mph limit they still do over and no right of way for •Parked cars in the square; un--enforced speed limits on adjoining pedestrians; roads, gypsy encampment at the Beeches; •Traffic. Not only the visual and practical nuisance, but also the long •Parking congestion in the square; term effects of fumes on the buildings; •Traffic and parking of cars ruining a medieval village; •Cars / parking are both problems that need sorting; •Inevitable increase in traffic / parking problems; •Loss of post office; •Accident rate junction of A28 & A252 far too high; •Too many road signs; •Dog Fouling on playing fields; •The cars in the square parked inappropriately, making it difficult when proceeding in a car up or down the high street; •Square is severely congested by vehicle parking and used as a rat run; •A residential village with limited attractions to locals I.e. no shops and post office at potential risk; •Underused public parking area at bottom of Hill causing ruination of square; •Disgraceful state of unopened antique shop in half of Wealden Hall house in the Square; •Too cluttered with cars. Residents do not use car park, they park haphazardly in the square and on the roads. Cars on school run not all •The White Horse needs a facelift – everyone sees this pub as they parking in the car park, although some improvement; enter the churchyard; •I have no concerns about Chilham village; •The roads to be gritted in the winter; •Admission of wide / long articulated trucks into narrow lanes;

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked about their concerns for the village: •The village is being decimated by the traffic problem – and makes a •Visitors are not respecting residents, and there are no clear parking mockery of the property agents quotation of being ‘this most sought bays in the square, causing obstructions. after village’ – maybe this should read ‘most sought after car park’; •The village requires expansion with housing for the younger •There is no central space in the square for activities or calm generation or it will die. Try buying a property if you are a 1st time enjoyment. Cars dominate and pedestrians are not safe, especially buyer. This affects the school, church and numerous other business young children and families. Tourists and visitors do not stay to spend and social activities; time or money as there is nowhere to relax and enjoy the space and as •What village? – it’s just a collection of houses surrounding a car park – trade is so diminished, nothing to do or buy much. The empty Peacock no ambience – no village life as such; and low grade White Horse all add to the air of failure; •The square is a dead place without plants, and there is a large •Too many new residents moving to Chilham and trying to alter our increase in traffic. lovely village; •The lack of housing for young people so that they can stay in the •The village has lost its sense of purpose and meaning; village. Definite markings are required on the square for parking bays; •There are risks to pedestrians’ safety because of cars / traffic – foreign •There is no welcoming spirit; tourists especially; •Residents have parking permits; •Traffic on the A28; •Lack of affordable housing; •The structural state of the village hall; •Speed of traffic, particularly at school times; •Too many cars in the narrow streets; •Amount of traffic and code of signage; •Not enough visitors to the village, It has lost its appeal; •Lack of direction for visitors to key buildings I.e. post office, school, •Stuck in the past; Cumberland House, Church and pubs; •It is being spoilt by visitors and trains are being taken out of action; •Overgrown hedgerows and grass banks; •Ensuring it is preserved; •Sometimes spoilt by too many parked cars in the square; •Ambulances and fire services are prevented from getting to the •Lacking in useful shops; church, old vicarage, Churchill and houses; •As it has no attraction for me, I don’t go there and therefore have no •Dangerous because of cars and traffic, it’s a hazard; concern;

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked about their concerns for the village: •Parking and traffic – very congested, not much life, better years ago; •Square used as a car park speed limit up the street ignored; •Too many cars parked in the square and no road signage to indicate •No concerns – this is a working village and should not be some sort of the one way traffic; model village manicured for outsiders; •Hedges not cut and pot holes not filled in, lots of graffiti, not much •Parking in square; interest in Old Wives Lees at all; •Traffic chaos! Inconvenience for all, emergency service, delivery •It is slowly turning into a dormitory – lack of shops, falling church service, refuse vehicles, residents; support but a thriving primary school and no low cost housing to keep •Car parking; the locals local; •If there was an emergency it would be absolutely unimaginable; •It is in danger of being destroyed by traffic, noise and pollution; •Lack of public transport; •Cars speed, parking; •The owners of Chilham Castle and Cumberland Cottage have spent •Needs to encourage more shops or it will just die; large amounts of money on improving visual aspects of the village. •Narrow roads taking traffic to and from square and parking in it; Their efforts have been largely negated by people who refuse to use the Taylor’s Hill car park ; •Difficult for emergency services; •Too few families and the cricket club has folded; •An accident black spot– far too many road signs everywhere – over 70 I believe. The 50 mph limit should be 20 and enforced. The various •Insufficient local employment. Too many second homes; road junctions are badly thought out and what looks like future •Cars left abandoned in square; developments where the Ashford turn off is will make it worse; •Cars in the square are a danger to children and take away the •Too many parked cars in square spoils ‘oldie world’ appearance. beauty of the village; Concerned that May Fayre not to be held in square as this is what makes makes it unique; •Lack and concern over traffic and pollution effects on village square; •Spoilt by cars parked in the square; •I feel that it would not be advisable to stop all access to the square; •Too many cars; •I am concerned about not enough security in the general car park at the bottom of Taylors Hill, which affects the traffic in the square. •I am aware of the lack of responsibility for how tidy The square is.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked to outline what improvements they would like to see: •Tourists and sight seers will want to see the square, church etc. So I •Centre cleared, designated car park for one car outside each house would remove all cars from the square down to the car park below – in square, parking on one side only for The Street enabling passage for half probably don’t belong there anyway; emergency vehicles; •Remove all the boards and signs from Badgers Farm or whatever it’s • No parking at top of Taylors Hill opposite what is the Tea Rooms – very called; difficult to pass with car when pedestrians are trying to walk from ‘car park’ to ‘The Square’ if people are to be encouraged to use the car •Buy the land that’s currently empty and turn it into a car park for all to park when visiting – then at least they should feel safe when walking to use; the centre of the village; •Attractive street furniture; •I would like to see the centre of the square cleared and not used as a •Pedestrianise square (there is a car park near the fire station) but of convenient long stay car park; course adequate disabled access; Encourage local business / services; •Possible seating for people to sit and admire the historic buildings – •Develop square as a focus of attention / activity; A village green with we supply free car parking at Taylors Hill car park. As for a coat of cars parked at the bottom of the hill; arms, lets improve the village first then think about it; •The castle open to visitors at the weekend; •Naturally, the improvement needed is control over the traffic congestion – more use of the car park at the foot of Taylor’s Hill by •No cars parked in front of square houses 10am-5pm would ensure visitors and residents; Taylor's Hill was used; •Maybe lock-up garages on part for residents of the square or even •Reduced parking in square, permits for residents; garages opposite in the wooded area secluded amongst the trees •Address health & safety issues; (wishful thinking no doubt), but until some miracle takes place our once pleasant and tranquil village of years ago will unfortunately be •Regular events in the square (farmers’ market, craft, antiques, music); no sought after village; •More village shops, activities involving the local community; •A large pedestrian central space (pedestrian domination) for farmers •More community events for young people (I have an 8 year old markets, concerts, quiet enjoyment; daughter); •Taylor’s Hill one way down to prevent aimless access;

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked to outline what improvements they would like to see: •Central feature – village sign, fountain, tree, something to give a •Gastro pub restaurant in the square; sense of scale; •Restricted parking in the square and some space reserved for public •Stop rat race rush hour traffic by system of one ways; use; •Suggest Church Hill one way is reversed to enable mothers from OWL •Restricted parking and traffic use of square – set aside part of the to pick up children and drive out down School Hill and exit the Avenue; square for recreational uses; •There are wells under the Square – a laundry by Well Cottage used to •Less parking in the Square, improved layout; exist from it – could a fountain be sourced from under the square – not •Stop cars driving round the square. The dray needs to get to the necessarily central, but a focus; White Horse pub and refuse vehicles need access but not many large •View between Church and Castle to be maintained uncluttered; vehicles need to get into the square itself – could access via The Street; •Square free of parked cars; •Some parking is needed, disabled etc. but not long term car park – need to encourage use of other car park; •Well designed refreshment kiosks in the square in summer to be dismantled over winter; •Need to be able to share space safely – pedestrians, cycles, cars etc rather than really segregating them. The speed is 20mph so low •Speed enforcement Chilham to Chartham; enough for shared space; •People to be much more aware of flytipping and rubbish thrown from •Need pinch point or similar at Taylors Hill to encourage into the car cars for prosecution purposes; park; •Support of local post office; •Remove signs wherever possible, that should be about 99% of them; •The provision of affordable housing for young and old; •Restaurant in Wealden Hall House in Square; •Public transport more frequent (especially to OWL); •Ban on articulated trucks over 40ft in 30mph limit, alternatively •Roundabout at Junction A28 & A252; admission only with police escort; •No dogs on playing fields (bins not sufficient deterrent); •Community opportunities; •Village square redesigned with no cars parked in it; •Cannot see how you would change the square and what about the cost? Post office entrance could have been more spacious, lovely •I would promote the idea of residents parking together with disabled people work there; parking in a designated area within The square.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked to outline what improvements they would like to see: •More village events – less for tourists; •Encourage use of Taylors Hill car park; •All parking in the centre of Chilham to be residents only; •Ban parking in square and make some kind of garden in middle; •Signage to indicate one way system in square; •People to be nicer and helpful, it would make a big difference; •I would like someone to have a look at the road from Denmark House •Seats provided in the square – itself being paved or similar; to OWL. The state of this road is atrocious and dangerous with pot • Provision being made for quality non-alcoholic refreshments; holes. I have live in OWL since 1952 and the state of Chilham is very run down; •Clearing the square of cars would improve its appearance and reduce the fire risk, especially to surrounding buildings; •Designated parking for residents of the square in the square – and more low cost housing to help retain villagers as they need housing •Visitors to use car park; particularly the young families who are forced to move away because •Think verges need grass cutting more; of local house prices; •Encourage centre of walkers and cyclists; stop off for long distance •No traffic allowed in the square; routes; •Return to grass setting if possible; •Control of traffic; •Signs, noise and pollution kept to a minimum; •Increased use of car park, secure parking / lock-up garaging; •Square for residents parking only; •Any square parking for residents only, increase churchyard parking; •Remove cars from square. Secure parking after hours for residents in •Policing of traffic is difficult. Explore possible residents parking inside the large car park; castle grounds; •Grass over the centre; •Develop facilities of White Horse; •Encourage shops to create interest for visitors; •Create a local museum and bookshop with local interest; •Square returned to grass and seats as in recent film made there; •Residents parking with bollards, 30 min stay maximum all other places •Car park is needed; I.e. post office etc; •The telephone box should be put in the middle of the square and not hidden away.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked to outline what improvements they would like to see: •Modernise the bottom car park; make it more presentable – make it •Themed markets, farmers markets, events and more shops to be built; a must to park there; •Residents parking only; •Dog fouling laws enforced; •The village square cleared of cars so all can enjoy its beauty; •Less cars parked around the sides of the square and on the street; •More shops, more buses, specifically at Old Wives Lees; Better signage •Fewer cars in the square but it’s difficult to see how it can be off the main road to manage traffic coming to / through the village. achieved; Better signage for visitors; •Change to May Fair (needs a re-vamp); •Left as it is (but better parking); •One way traffic around the village or in part school lane and past •I would like to see it left exactly as it is but with restricted parking in the the post office; square; •Overnight parking (12:00 midnight to 6:00am) banned in The square •Less cars; and adjacent roads. The ban to be supported by the building of lock- •More tourist friendly activity in the square; up garages on the Taylor’s Hill car-park by Ashford Borough Council; •Well designed street furniture, parking for residents only in the square, •More shops such as a bakers or grocers. 2 slots for the disabled, central seating; some sensitive signage to •Less parking in square – one way system? persuade visitors to park in Taylor’s Hill car park before attempting to park in the square; •A footpath from Felborough Close to the top of Chilham Square; •Some encouragement to some square residents to improve the •A local police presence again; frontages – flowers / fewer signs; •Better bus service from Ashford (last bus 4.30pm Monday to •Closer scrutiny on the design and detail (no PVC windows); Saturday, none on Sundays); •By-law to using car park i.e. lock-up gates for local owner occupiers – •More things happening, more community atmosphere; Guarantee in the square but other than the above two bullets, leave well alone; of no reduction of rail services; •Traffic removed from the Square and proper provision made for •Parking of cars out of village and restrict traffic flow; residents’ access needs creative solutions to be brainstormed; •Restart cricket club for girls too; •If we had a part pedestrian environment, new visitors would accept •Fight to keep the post office open; what is there purely on face value.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates QUESTIONNAIRES

Respondents were asked to outline what improvements they would like to see: •More orderly parking in Chilham Square. No other alterations to the •The square should become more welcoming and an attractive village square except general tidying, better seating for visitors and environment for residents and visitors; more maintenance to some properties; •Remove the old cart – it’s a distraction; •The square cleared of parked cars – possibly a further car park •Remove restrictions on traffic turning left just before the main road provided if feasible; junction; •More for visitors to do, maybe a small museum or some •None at all except those that evolve organically; entertainment; •The square pedestrianised, no on-street parking in any approach •Rotunda in centre of square, somewhere to sit, pedestrians only; road; •Drop off point and no parking in square or restricted parking for •I would like to see a change in the use of The square as the traditions disabled; of the past remain, E.g, Morris dancers and a farmers market. •Markings on the square for better parking; •Full use of car park; •Have a bandstand; •Visitor parking limited to twenty minutes during the daytime. Residents •If its not broke don’t fix it, its perfect as it is and it should be left alone; of the Parish and residents of the square needing further permits or wishing to stay longer than twenty minutes could apply to the (PC) for •Discourage random parking e.g. cars for sale on e-bay; a permit (£5); •One way down School Hill; •Less signs, better street furniture and information boards of tourist •Traffic needs to be directed better; value strategically placed would also help. •Needs ‘brightening up’ – parking bays – no other parking other than •Traffic signs on the A251 for access into Chilham and thus the square in bays, although this could ‘put off’ tourists; should be precise and clearly visible. •More greenery with more resting areas; •The square should be more people friendly, the cars should not dominate. •Defined parking spaces in Taylor’s Hill car park; •Visitors should be required to use the near by large car park and •One way system at the street and School Hill; public toilets.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates PUBLIC EXHIBITION

An exhibition of the children’s projects together with the graphic boards used to support the face to face presentations at the workshops, went on display from 17 to 30 June at St Mary’s Church. The purpose was to explain the project and encourage people to complete a questionnaire.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates CONCLUSION

Top Ten Issues: Top Ten Aspirations: 1. Parking / congestion in the square – restricting access and a 1. Village square to become a more attractive place, a danger re emergency vehicles; causing an eyesore for meetings and events space as a focal point that comes residents and visitors; deters community from using a key closer to the Miss Marple example demonstrated by the TV asset. production company 2. Anti-social behaviour in Taylors Hill car park makes it a no go 2. To eliminate the problem of anti-social behaviour in Taylors area, particularly for families which adds to the problem of Hill through making it more attractive, overlooked, better parking / congestion in the square. used by the community, in co-operation with the police. 3. Closure of the castle, means that visitors now have less to do 3. For residents in the square to be able to park directly outside in Chilham when they come. It is not set up to manage or their houses but eliminate the majority of parked cars from cater for visitors. Without its castle, Chilham is not a the square and side streets destination. 4. To make more of Chilham’s heritage through signage and 4. Local economy is fragile – with the beauty of Chilham under visitor information threat. 5. To have access to the Castle grounds for special events and 5. Chilham lacks a sense of community – the parish is spread tours (including school). over three villages, community including local business does not work together. 6. To improve traffic flow 6. Conflict of pedestrians and cars because of the volume of 7. To improve the range of facilities for the community and for through traffic – particularly problematic for the school and visitors, including a picnic area, good quality food & drink for visitors who use Taylors Hill car park. 8. To improve cycling and pedestrian routes around the village 7. Lack of agreement as to what Chilham should be – residents 9. To improve the A250 / A28 junction which is currently an don’t want tourists, businesses feel lack of support and need accident blackspot. tourists. 10. To build a stronger community – residential and business. 8. Resistance to change. 9. Buildings are underused – the empty antiques shop is in severe disrepair, the graveyard is not maintained to a very high standard, the teashop is not open regularly. 10. The community feels a strong lack of support / interest from the local authorities – not helped by the fact that it sits so close to the border of another local authority.

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates LETTERS OF SUPPORT

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates LETTERS OF SUPPORT

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates LETTERS OF SUPPORT

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates LETTERS OF SUPPORT

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates LETTERS OF SUPPORT

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates

Chilham Village Square Enhancement Scheme Appendix B - costings

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates

Rural Enterprise Scheme

Chilham Village Square Enhancement Scheme

Costing Methodology

1.0) INTRODUCTION

1.1) Project Background The budget estimate relates to two design projects for Chilham. One is for a proposal for the village square and the second is for alterations and upgrades to the existing entrance route and car park on Taylor’s Hill.

1.2) Project Brief To provide an estimate of the costs at present day rates for the proposed development.

1.3) Previous Estimate Reports We are unaware of any previous cost reports carried out for this project.

1.4) Further Considerations The next stage would be to prepare detail briefs to progress the design drawings and prepare a more detailed specification detailing the specific proposals for the works. From this information the project can be worked up into a full tendering document, and cost checked at all stages of the design process. A value management/engineering session may be appropriate to ensure value for money is maintained.

2.0) DESIGN BASIS OF THE REPORT

2.1) Design Proposals, Drawings Site plan and schedule of typical items. The design of the Village Square and car park has been developed to create a schedule of rates and typical items based on community need as identified by the consultation exercise for the enhancement of the broader area and consultant appraisals. The consultant team includes urban designers, landscape architects and consultation advisers.

3.0) FINANCIAL BASIS OF THE REPORT

3.1) Cost Information The project estimate has been prepared generally on the basis of 'Cost per m²' rates for works The quantities are assumed as an average number of features per area. The price for street trees includes for the tree, tree pit, tree grille, kerbing and root guard. These rates have been derived from in-house cost information and/or from Cost Analyses published by the BCIS-Online services We have priced the various elements of the work net and applied separate adjustments for contingencies, project management, design consultancy, consultation phases, maintenance and price and design risk. 3.2) Procurement The estimate assumes that tenders will be sought on a competitive single stage basis and that contract will be awarded on a standard form of building contract. For the purposes of this estimate we have assumed a 'Traditional' fully designed fixed price tender, however, other possible procurement routes could be considered. The choice of procurement route may have an effect on the cost for the project, we would recommend an early discussion to resolve this issue.

3.3) Programme The pricing is based at present day values and price may be affected by programme. 3.4) Pricing Levels The level of pricing assumes a contractor will have clear access to the working areas and that the work will be executed during normal working hours.

Cost Method01-D-Chilham.doc Rummey Design Associates The pricing indices are based on current Building Cost Information Services (BCIS) information. The estimate is based at 'Present Day' prices and we have made no adjustment to the estimated total to allow for 'Market Trends' up to and during the construction period. 3.5) Exclusions The following are not included in this Project Estimate. Value Added Tax Land purchase and legal fees Planning and other Local Authority charges Contributions to Section 106 agreements Finance Charges Marketing costs Any costs caused by 'Third Party Rights' Specialist Security measures

Qualifications

The following qualifications apply to this Costing Exercise. It has been assumed that the existing ground conditions are good and there are no requirements for ground improvement, ground retention or land drainage to soft and hard landscape areas. Potential additional cost No allowance has been made for excavating below ground water level. Potential additional cost It is assumed that the drainage to the site is adequate and designs will progress in such a way as not to necessitate additional or reconfiguration of drainage Potential additional cost Finished ground levels for the site works are assumed to be above the existing prevailing levels, thus minimum allowance for carting material off site. Potential additional cost No allowance has been made for contaminated soil removal. No detailed information is available Potential additional cost The potential additional costs identified above have not been included in the Estimate of Construction Cost. These costs should, however, be included in the overall project budgets as part of the contingency sum.

Cost Method01-D-Chilham.doc Rummey Design Associates Budget Estimate Rummey Design Associates Project 1

£ p

Chilham village square

Project Name: Public Open Space

Hard landscape

Resurfacing 1820 m2 35 63,700

Special paving to 20% of area 364 m2 85 30,940

94,640

Additional hard landscaping items

Lighting - inc. cabling runs and junction box with public electrical supply 1 Item 30,000 30,000

Seating 3 No 1,000 3,000

Bins 2 No 250 500

Cycle hoops Say 10 No 250 2,500

Artwork 1 No 5,000 5,000

Signs/Interpretation 1 Item 2,500 2,500

Boundary improvements - bollards inc. 2 tethers for horses 1 item 6,500 6,500

50,000

Soft landscape

Semi-mature tree planting 8 No 650 5,200

Planting to 15% of area 273 m2 35 9,555

14,755

20 July 2006 Draft 01 Rummey Design Associates Budget Estimate Rummey Design Associates Project 1

£ p

SUMMARY

Paving 94,640

Additional hard landscaping items 50,000

Soft landscape 14,755

Sub Total 159,395

Preliminaries 15% 23,909

Contingency 15% 23,909

Maintenance 15% 23,909

Sub Total 231,123

Project 4% 9,245 Management and Procurement Design and 16% 36,980 engineering

Consultation 5% 11,556

Total 288,903

20 July 2006 Draft 01 Rummey Design Associates Budget Estimate Rummey Design Associates Project 2

£ p

Taylors Hill Car Park and Approach

Project Name: Public car park and highways revisions

Hard landscape

Resurfacing inc. breaking out and new surfacing in places 2000 m2 35 70,000

Special paving to 15% of area 300 m2 85 25,500

95,500

Additional Hard Landscaping Items

Lighting - inc. cabling runs and junction box with public electrical supply 1 Item 20,000 20,000

Seating 4 No 400 1,600

Bins 3 No 250 750

Cycle hoops Say 10 No 250 2,500

Signs/Interpretation 1 Item 2,500 2,500

WC - building improvements and security 1 Item 5,000 5,000

Boundary improvements - bollards 15 No 150 2,250

34,600

Soft Landscaping

Semi-mature tree planting 40 No 650 26,000

Planting 1150 m2 35 40,250

66,250

20 July 2006 Draft 01 Rummey Design Associates Budget Estimate Rummey Design Associates Project 2

£ p

SUMMARY

Paving 95,500

Additional Hard Landscaping Items 34,600

Soft Landscaping 66,250

Sub Total 196,350

Preliminaries 15% 29,453

Contingency 15% 29,453

Maintenance 15% 29,453

Sub Total 284,708

Project 4% 11,388 Management and Procurement Design and 16% 45,553 engineering

Consultation 5% 14,235

Total 355,884

20 July 2006 Draft 01 Rummey Design Associates

Rummey Design Associates South Park Studios South Park Sevenoaks Kent TN13 1AN

Tel. 01732 743753 Email. [email protected]

CHILHAM VILLAGE SQUARE Rummey Design Associates