CREATING THE CANVAS FOR PUBLIC LIFE in Bath

PUBLIC REALM AND MOVEMENT STRATEGY FOR BATH CITY CENTRE

1 CREATING THE CANVAS FOR PUBLIC LIFE IN BATH

FOREWORD INTRODUCTION DOCUMENT SUMMARY

PART 1: DECLINE AND OPPORTUNITY 11 THE DECLINE OF THE PUBLIC REALM 12 THE OPPORTUNITY 18

PART 2: THE BIG IDEA 35 CREATING A CANVAS FOR PUBLIC LIFE 36 THE PUBLIC REALM PLAN 40

PART 3: A CITY REBALANCED, REFASHIONED, REVEALED AND REANIMATED 45 THE COMPOSING ELEMENTS 46

PART 4: THE DESIGN ELEMENTS 103

This document has been prepared and published by PART 5: REALISING THE STRATEGY 113 Bath & North East Somerset Council and City ID. MAKING IT HAPPEN 114 © B&NES Council | City ID | July 2010 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 118 transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES 121 without the prior permission of the copyright owners. CONTACTS 124 ISBN 978-0-9565747-0-1

3 FOREWORD COUNCILLOR FRANCINE HAEBERLING, LEADER, BATH AND NORTH EAST SOMERSET COUNCIL

Creating the Canvas for Public Life in Bath – The Council is looking to release capital Public Realm and Movement Strategy resources to invest in the public realm. for Bath City Centre Other landowners, investors, developers This is an ambitious document which and public sector funding bodies will also refl ects the Council’s commitment to be required to play their part in delivering improving the distinctiveness, vitality and the long-term plan. sustainability of our city and district. Nevertheless, the Council is keen to It puts forward a bold, long-term plan implement this strategy and a programme of for a world-class city centre, which can be projects is already underway. Similar studies delivered over the next 10 to 20 years as are under development for Keynsham, funding and investment are secured. Midsomer Norton and Radstock, and in time It is designed to give pedestrians, some of the proposals for the city and town cyclists and public transport vehicles priority centres, particularly in relation to pedestrian over cars, and deliver a network of beautiful, and cycle movement, will hopefully expand refashioned streets and public spaces. into surrounding neighbourhoods. The aim is to encourage more vibrant We believe this plan will help us and diverse public life within the streets, achieve our vision of making Bath and North spaces, parks and gardens of the city centre East Somerset an even better place to live, and along its River Corridor, creating new work and visit. opportunities for social interaction, creativity and play and helping make the city a more active, inclusive and engaging place. This, we believe, will benefi t local people, stimulate further economic investment and business growth, and enhance Bath’s status as a UNESCO Councillor Francine Haeberling World Heritage Site and international Leader, Bath and North East visitor destination. Somerset Council These proposals are fi rmly rooted in an understanding and appreciation of Bath’s history and evolution as a city and seek to deliver distinctive, modern solutions that respect the city’s unique character. We do not underestimate the challenge of delivering the strategy; it will demand signifi cant on-going public and private sector investment, further improvements in transport infrastructure and strong leadership.

2 3 Policy context The strategy has been subject to a The strategy responds to the Council’s vision Sustainability Appraisal to ensure that for Bath and North East Somerset as ‘a sustainable development considerations INTRODUCTION distinctive place, with vibrant and sustainable are properly integrated. Where appropriate communities where everyone fulfi ls their the recommended changes have been potential’ and to a number of corporate included within relevant sections of the improvement priorities including ‘Sustainable strategy, however many of the changes Growth’, ‘Improving Transport and the Public relate to the implementation of specifi c Realm’, ‘Building communities where people projects rather than the strategy itself. feel safe and secure’ and ‘Addressing the In these circumstances the Council will causes and effects of climate change’. refer to the Sustainability Appraisal during It builds upon the Local Strategic the preparation and implementation of Partnership’s Sustainable Community these projects. Strategy, the Bath and North East Somerset Local Plan and the Council’s Future for Bath Status vision and has been developed alongside a This strategy has been approved as Council series of related strategies and studies for policy. It will be a material consideration in retail, culture, destination management and the planning process and will directly inform business growth. Subject to further testing the Council’s review of the Bath and North and integration, these studies will contribute East Somerset Supplementary Planning to a new planning policy framework (Bath and Document for Planning Obligations. North East Somerset Core Strategy and Local Development Framework) and a Regeneration Delivery Plan for Bath. The public realm offers spaces for enjoyment, entertainment and social interaction and quieter Policy context areas for those who value solitude. Public space is open Sustainable Community and free to use. It provides an essential opportunity for Strategy all parts of society, to meet, mingle and connect.

Throughout the history of civilisation, the The strategy Council Vision and Priorities public realm – the shared space between Creating the Canvas for Public Life in Bath buildings – has been a focal point for public – Public Realm and Movement Strategy for life. The squares, promenades, streets, lanes, Bath City Centre recommends a radical and markets, parks and riversides of our city and inspirational plan for the transformation of Existing local policy context, Future for Bath, Keynsham town centres are where people have always Bath’s urban environment. Although ambitious including: and Somer Valley gathered to meet others, to demonstrate and and aspirational, it is also pragmatic and Local Plan World Heritage Site campaign, to barter and trade, to parade and fl exible and can be delivered on an incremental Management Plan play, to share their grief and to celebrate. basis over the next 10 to 20 years. Joint Local Transport Plan The public realm offers spaces The strategy puts forward a series Bath and Wider B&NES for enjoyment, entertainment and social of measures to address traffi c movement Business plans and Spatial interaction and quieter areas for those who within and around the centre of the city in Frameworks value solitude and contemplation. Public space order to establish a network of beautiful new is open and free to use. It provides an essential and reclaimed public spaces, successful opportunity for all parts of society, for the streets and an enhanced River Corridor. It also Place-shaping strategies Implementing familiar and the foreign, to mingle and connect. recommends a programme of improvements and studies the business plans Over the past century, the increasing to simplify, refashion and manage the public dominance of the motor car has done much realm, including the removal of street clutter to damage the character and quality of public and the introduction of a new bespoke range Public Realm Cultural Study Retail Strategy Business Growth Destination Strategic Housing and Movement (Bath) and Employment Management Market space and public life across the world. of street furniture and pedestrian wayfi nding Strategy Land Study Plan and Visitor Assessment However, in recent decades a products to enhance, reveal and communicate Accommodation growing number of pioneering cities such as the distinctiveness and diversity of Bath. Study Copenhagen, Freiburg and Bordeaux have The ultimate objective of the Public succeeded in reversing the hierarchy of car Realm and Movement Strategy is to stimulate Core Strategy/LDF Regeneration Delivery Plans and pedestrian within their centres and are a rediscovery of a vibrant public life within Place Branding/ rediscovering the benefi ts of putting people the city centre and to enhance the enormous Positioning Strategy and sense of place at the heart of urban life. potential of Bath as a place, not just for the The increase in economic success, popularity benefi t of visitors and businesses, but for Development and regeneration and wellbeing that these and other cities have the enjoyment, health and wellbeing of the Investment subsequently experienced provides inspiration community as a whole. Vibrant, distinctive and sustainable places and guidance when considering and planning Increased wellbeing the future of Bath’s city centre.

4 5 The proposals within this document take This will include the development of a Bath below full account of, and seek to deliver a range Pattern Book to establish a much needed Bath city centre of public realm objectives within the City of design tool to inform, guide and regulate the study area Bath World Heritage Site Management Plan, development of Bath’s public realm in the particularly the sections on Physical Access, future. This will include details of paving, Interpretation and Visitor Management. street furniture, wayfi nding, lighting, public They also fully engage with the implications art, soft landscaping and tree planting. Extended City centre of the £54 million Bath Transport Package bid to the Department for Transport and the study area study area EC CIVITAS initiative.

Who is it for? The ideas and proposals within the Public Realm and Movement Strategy are relevant to anyone with an interest in the future of the city centre. The strategy has been developed with the involvement of a number of key community stakeholders and Council members and offi cers.

What happens next? The Public Realm and Movement Strategy will be implemented through the Council’s Public Realm and Movement Programme. A detailed delivery plan and funding strategy are currently being prepared for the next fi ve years.

2km

4km

6 7 DOCUMENT PART 1: PART 2: PART 3: A CITY PART 4: PART 5: SUMMARY DECLINE AND THE BIG IDEA REBALANCED, THE DESIGN REALISING OPPORTUNITY REFASHIONED, ELEMENTS THE STRATEGY REVEALED AND REANIMATED

p12 p36 p46 p104 p114 THE DECLINE OF THE CREATING THE CANVAS THE COMPOSING ELEMENTS THE DESIGN ELEMENTS MAKING IT HAPPEN PUBLIC REALM FOR PUBLIC LIFE IN BATH Explores the layers that make Addresses design PUBLIC REALM AND Outlines the gradual decline Sets out the overarching up Bath’s urban structure to elements such as paving, MOVEMENT PROGRAMME of Bath’s streets and spaces vision of the strategy to inform a holistic approach to street furniture, lighting, Outlines the proposal to as a result of the increasing reclaim and transform delivering the strategy. tree planting, and public art. deliver the Plan on an dominance of vehicular Bath’s public realm as a These elements are often incremental basis over a traffi c and decades of under- canvas for public life and p50 required to meet the basic 10 to 20 year period as part 1: A REBALANCED investment. This has resulted increased wellbeing. functional needs of the of a phased and carefully MOVEMENT AND in a tired, cluttered and city but should also managed programme of p40 SPATIAL STRUCTURE disordered city centre which reinforce Bath’s design strategy development, THE PLAN Presents the approach to is at risk of undermining values, providing richness, design guidance and A FRAMEWORK FOR rebalancing the transport Bath’s success as a city. detail and sensory delight project implementation. TRANSFORMING BATH’S and movement systems to the public realm p18 PUBLIC REALM AND within the city in favour of and strengthening the THE OPPORTUNITY MOVEMENT SYSTEMS the pedestrian, cyclist and distinctiveness of Bath. THE CASE FOR Establishes the long term public transport user. TRANSFORMING BATH master plan and conceptual Highlights the case for the framework to guide the p58 2: A REFASHIONED transformation of Bath’s transformation of Bath’s STREETSCAPE AND public realm, as a defi ning movement systems, streets, RIVERSCAPE and unifying feature of the public spaces and River Focuses on the streets long-term vision for the Corridor over the next and spaces between Bath’s growth and revitalisation 10 to 20 years. buildings, the river and its of the city centre. surrounding environment p22 and the city’s green spaces BEING INFORMED which need to be connected BY THE PAST and refashioned to create Describes Bath’s seminal role a canvas for public life. in the evolution of urbanism and streetscape design in p84 3: A CITY REVEALED the 18th century and explains THROUGH A NEW CITY why the vision, values and INFORMATION SYSTEM investment which led to the Outlines a city information remarkable transformation system designed to help and success of the Georgian people access, understand city are still relevant today. and explore the city in an p30 easy and stress-free way. REINFORCING BATH’S DNA Emphasises the importance p98 4: A CANVAS FOR PUBLIC LIFE of Bath’s distinctiveness Highlights the opportunities and coherence as a place to reanimate, revitalise and in inspiring and infl uencing reinvent Bath through a the design values for the transformation of public life. public realm. p32 THE ESSENCE OF BATH Proposes a framework of key values, principles and attributes to guide the future design of the public realm.

88 99 PART 1: DECLINE AND OPPORTUNITY

THE DECLINE OF THE PUBLIC REALM THE OPPORTUNITY THE CASE FOR TRANSFORMING BATH BEING INFORMED BY THE PAST REINFORCING BATH’S DNA THE ESSENCE OF BATH

10 11 Lost spaces A closer inspection at street level reveals It is surprising that in an international visitor a cacophony of dated street furniture and destination and spa resort which many regard poorly maintained surfaces including cracked THE DECLINE OF THE as the birthplace of 18th century urbanism and patched paving, pseudo-Victorian and promenading, there are today so few benches and fi nger posts, rusting litter bins, successful and enjoyable urban spaces within and a proliferation of poles and highways PUBLIC REALM the centre for people to gather with friends, signage. Recent attempts to improve areas of to eat and drink, to be entertained, to play, public realm at Milsom Street and Kingsmead and to watch the world go by. Much of this can Square were carried out in the absence be blamed on the rise of vehicular movement of a complete strategy and, despite their which led to some of Bath’s fi nest set pieces respective merits, have therefore contributed such as Terrace Walk, Orange Grove, High little towards the clarity and coherence of the Street and Queen Square becoming spaces city centre as a whole. for cars and not people. The factors outlined above refl ect Perhaps Bath’s greatest lost (or never the current imbalance between the needs properly discovered) space and certainly for vehicular access and the quality and its most neglected asset is the River Avon, experience of the pedestrian environment. whose winding course still defi nes the form They also highlight the slow erosion of the and boundary of much of the city centre. qualities of place which once made Bath No longer a vital transport route, it is to unique, weakening its distinctiveness and be lamented that today’s river remains in attractiveness at a time when it faces large parts unattractive, inaccessible and increasing competition from other cities. under-utilised.

Clutter and disorder Like an orchestra without a conductor, the city’s Along with many other towns and cities, Bath has, over recent decades, failed to public realm currently lacks unity of design and direction. grasp the value and importance of its public realm as an arena for public life and wellbeing The decline of the public realm drivers and pedestrians. In places, and as a generator of economic vitality and The natural beauty of Bath’s landscape crowded footways or mean pavement success. Years of under-investment and setting, the elegance of its Georgian widths regularly force people into the insuffi cient management have seen the architecture and the theatricality of its highway with potentially perilous once celebrated public spaces, parades and built form endure and continue to delight. consequences. Over recent years efforts passages of the 18th century city become However, few could claim today that the to calm traffi c in some areas of the centre increasingly tired, cluttered and incoherent. streets and spaces which unify its buildings have in part been successful, but many and form the platform for public life and of those streets and spaces still remain movement within the centre are worthy of characterised by tarmacadam and THE DECLINE OF THE PUBLIC REALM Bath’s status as a World Heritage Site and highway paraphernalia, which, while international visitor destination. sometimes a legal requirement, do little Few could claim that the treatment of the city’s streets and spaces The decline of the public realm has to engender a positive sense of place. are worthy of Bath’s World Heritage Site status. occurred slowly, almost imperceptibly over The city centre also lacks clear, decades. Incrementally, many of the special welcoming gateways and arrival points Bath’s sense of order, coherence and design have gradually eroded. qualities for which Bath’s city centre was for pedestrians, and those few that exist once envied and emulated, such as its sense display a visually inconsistent variety of The dominance of traffi c can constrict pedestrian movement. of order, coherence, clarity of design and maps and signs, compounding a sense quality have eroded, gradually undermining of disorder. The absence of a clear and Many streets and spaces are characterised by tarmac and the distinctiveness, reputation and economic coherent pedestrian information and highway paraphernalia. potential of Bath as a place. Like an orchestra navigation system (often referred to as without a conductor, the city’s public realm ‘wayfi nding’) limits the opportunity for The city centre lacks clear, welcoming gateways and arrival points currently lacks unity of design and direction people to circulate around and beyond for pedestrians. and its former sense of a total composition the centre on foot. When combined with has become diminished. the shortage of high quality public spaces, There are too few successful urban public spaces for people this often results in overcrowding and to enjoy within the centre. Constricted movement congestion in the few successfully In response to the diffi culty of pedestrianised areas around the Abbey, The public realm has suffered from decades of under-investment accommodating ever-increasing levels Roman Baths and parts of Stall Street. and insuffi cient management. of vehicular traffi c within the centre, the Similarly, insuffi cient recognition and inherent qualities of a number of Bath’s access is given to cyclists within the centre, There is a cacophony of dated street furniture and poorly maintained historic streets and spaces have gradually limiting the potential of another healthy and surfaces including cracked and badly patched paving. eroded, at times creaking with the competing non-polluting form of movement. While Bath demands of cars, buses, coaches and heavy is fortunate to benefi t from higher levels Air pollution is a growing problem. goods vehicles. As well as constricting the of public transport use than many other fl ow of pedestrian movement, this can cities, it is a challenge for the uninitiated generate high levels of air pollution and at to easily understand and access the city’s times unnecessary tension and stress for bus network. 12 13 14 15 16 17 below key Plan showing major areas of agreed and 1 The Podium THE OPPORTUNITY potential change 2 Guildhall/Riverside/Rugby Club 3 Manvers Street THE CASE FOR 4 SouthGate/Bath Spa Station 5 Bath Quays TRANSFORMING BATH 6 Kingsmead/James Street 7 Charlotte Street Car Park 8 Bath Western Riverside 9 Twerton Riverside

Bath currently stands on the threshold of a major cycle of change and investment in the city centre. This provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to look at the centre of Bath as a whole and Hedgemead to develop a coherent long-term vision and delivery Royal Park Victoria plan for its revitalisation. Park

The case for transforming Bath Bath and North East Somerset Sustainable Looked at in isolation, the scale and extent Community Strategy and Core Strategy. The of the decline and disorder within Bath’s According to the Future for Bath Circus Henrietta public realm represents a sobering, if not Business Plan by Ernst and Young and the Park overwhelming, challenge for the public and recent Economic Strategy for Bath and North private sectors to overcome. Even taking East Somerset, Bath’s future economic account of the impacts of the current prosperity and sustainability depends on 7 1 economic downturn, in the longer-term Bath attracting higher value employers and jobs stands on the threshold of a major cycle of in order to rebalance the current low-wage Queen Square Beazer change and investment in the city centre economy. The Vision and Economic Strategy Norfolk Garden as it responds to the Government’s growth promote the development of a distinctive 8 Crescent Maze 9 Green Bath agenda, as a result of the Regional Spatial local economy where higher value knowledge, Park Rugby Station Orange Club Strategy and its own identifi ed need for creative and environmental industries, Grove 2 economic, physical and cultural regeneration including owner-managed companies, are and renewal. This provides a once in a lifetime actively targeted and encouraged. They also Bath Parade 6 Abbey Gardens opportunity to look at the centre of Bath as promote the delivery of new, contemporary a whole and to develop a coherent long-term homes, including affordable housing, to Abbey Green Burial vision and delivery plan for its revitalisation. accommodate existing demand within the Park Green city and to house an expanded workforce. Ground Future for Bath At the same time the city is seeking to 5 The case for change was originally highlighted create a higher quality visitor economy where 3 in the Council’s Future for Bath vision of people stay for longer and where health and 2007 (www.bathnes.gov.uk/future/bath). wellbeing (associated with the Spa) and the 4 This established a range of signifi cant socio- lucrative conference and business tourism economic and physical challenges facing markets are developed. Bath the city and in particular the city centre, and A high quality, contemporary public Spa outlined the opportunity to actively harness realm must be part of the strategy to attract Station and shape the housing and economic growth new knowledge-based and creative industries agenda in order to secure a more successful, to the city and to widen Bath’s appeal to more sustainable and distinctive future. The Future high-spend, younger cultural visitors. for Bath has directly informed the recent 18 19 This could offer the buzz and excitement beautiful, high quality public realm blends of contemporary artistic and cultural old and new together into a unifi ed whole. expression, alongside the city’s existing This approach is underpinned by outstanding offering of heritage and the belief that the qualities of a place, traditional culture. particularly its public realm, can have Bath needs to attract younger, more a profound impact on individuals and innovative and creative people in order to communities and is a key factor in personal sustain its future economy – people who and collective wellbeing and economic may currently perceive the city as a place success. In Bath’s case, it proposes that for middle-aged and elderly people. wellbeing should be placed at the centre This strategy delivers a more balanced and of a sequential process that will: successful city centre. It envisages a Bath where traditional and contemporary values Level 1 Transform the public realm of design and culture are fused and where to revitalise the city centre people of all ages and backgrounds can to a standard that refl ects enjoy a rich and varied experience. its status as an international Central to this work is the principle visitor destination and that the regeneration of the city centre must World Heritage Site. be inspired and guided by Bath’s unique Level 2 Transform the economic, qualities and values, its DNA, as a place. social and cultural wellbeing It must also embrace current ethical and of Bath’s communities, environmental concerns, including the need businesses and institutions. to build a low carbon economy in response Level 3 Lead to long-term competitive to climate change, and changing patterns advantage through positioning of consumption, work and behaviour Bath as a city that offers within society. an exemplary 21st century The Future for Bath paints a picture sustainable lifestyle. right of the type of city Bath has the potential Diagram illustrating the process for transforming Empowering _healthy Bath – the city that to become: …a vibrant, confi dent and Seen in this context, there is a compelling Bath’s public realm Level 3 personal health _fulfi lled provides the pre-eminent highly distinctive city with a successful and case for transforming Bath’s public realm. and wellbeing. _safe 21st Century sustainable sustainable economy, strong ethical values, It provides the opportunity to re-unify the _happy lifestyle. high quality and popular public spaces, quality of buildings and their immediate an attractive River Corridor and a happier and wider settings, to dramatically improve and more fulfi lled community. It enjoys a the experience of the city centre for the strong regional, national and international pedestrian, to enhance the attractiveness identity, built upon Bath’s beauty, heritage and competitiveness of Bath as a city; and essential character. It is easy to access to integrate the old and new parts of the Enabling institutions, _open Enabling the economic, and move around by public transport, on centre, to be a catalyst for further economic Level 2 organisations _networked social and cultural foot or by bicycle. It balances the needs of investment and vitality; to encourage and businesses. _innovative wellbeing of its local residents, workers and visitors and is healthier lifestyles; to increase community _experimental communities, businesses recognised around the world as a leading safety and ultimately to build an experience _reanimated and institutions. centre for water and wellbeing, pleasure of public-life and wellbeing which could and culture, imagination and design, and become one of the city’s defi ning features. knowledge and invention. Transforming _rebalanced Transforming the quality Public Realm and Movement Strategy Level 1 Bath’s movement _refashioned and revitalising the city The Public Realm and Movement Strategy systems, streets _revealed centre – commensurate is one of the most signifi cant components spaces and riverscape. with its status as a World in the delivery of this long-term vision. Heritage Site. With major development schemes coming forward in future years adding new urban quarters and new forms of architecture to the mix of the existing city centre, it is more urgent than ever for Bath to look 20 years or more ahead to the completion of its expanded centre and to plan now for the type of place it wants to become. This strategy provides the opportunity to consider the future of the city centre in a holistic way. It advocates a long-term plan and investment strategy for public realm and movement, which builds incrementally towards the completion of an integrated and coherent centre where the needs of vehicular access and the needs of the pedestrian and cyclist are rebalanced; and where a simple, 20 2121 These were expressed and experienced In the interest of public safety, sentry through its grand Palladian architecture of boxes were installed (an example of which terraces, squares, crescents and circus, can still be seen at Norfolk Crescent), THE OPPORTUNITY its fi ne pump rooms and baths, its modern where nightwatchmen equipped with their Mineral Water Hospital, its grand assembly customary staffs, rattles and lamps, rooms and theatres and, not least, within stood guard. the equally impressive parades, public The distinctiveness and individuality of BEING INFORMED BY spaces and pleasure gardens which formed Bath’s streetscape was further enhanced by Bath’s public realm. a range of delicately crafted products, many of which helped to defi ne the boundaries THE PAST Promenading city between public and private space. Over two A central feature and achievement in the hundred years later, the enduring beauty transformation of Georgian Bath was the and quality of the city’s wrought iron railings, creation of an exceptional urban realm. overthrows, lamps, foot-scrapers and This became the stage on which a vibrant snuffers are a testament to their original and colourful public life was orchestrated: design and construction. ‘An agreeable urban environment mattered as As the 18th century neared its end, much as good accommodation and the round the city’s sustained programme of innovation, of diversions, for the elaborate social theatre physical improvement and fi nancial investment of the visitors was performed as much in the in Bath’s streetscape had created one public walks and city thoroughfares as in the of the fi nest public realms in Europe and drawing rooms and polite assemblies. In such a lasting legacy for future generations. a fashionable resort then, attention to the Indeed, in consciously designing, planning arteries through which the public circulated and managing its public streets and spaces assumed a special signifi cance; and just as to support the social and cultural life of its With its inspirational urbanism and architecture, Bath found itself a trend-setter in matters citizens and visitors, it could be claimed of etiquette, organised entertainment that Georgian Bath practically invented the its spa waters and status as a centre for culture, or domestic architecture, so it did in the concept of public realm as we know it today. pleasure and fashion, Bath once kept ahead of all humbler sphere of street management’ [2] The city became famous for the quality possible competitors and its economy thrived. of its grand spaces, promenades and parades Its successes were admired and copied by many and for the civilised social interaction and wellbeing they engendered. However such larger cities, including London. advancements in Bath’s streetscape were not achieved easily and were the product of a Bath is one of the world’s and copied by many larger cities, including long-term commitment, strong management most beautiful cities London. Today, as Bath comes to terms and signifi cant economic investment. In 1987 the entire city was inscribed on the with the need to physically and economically From the beginning of the 18th century, United Nations’ Educational, Scientifi c and revitalise and refashion its public realm the management and maintenance of Bath’s Cultural Organisation’s (UNESCO) list of and movement systems, there are many streets and public spaces was treated with World Heritage Sites in recognition of its interesting and relevant lessons to be increasing seriousness by the Corporation. ‘outstanding universal values’. learned from its 18th century renaissance. It introduced a series of local Improvement This designation pays tribute to Bath’s Acts from 1707 onwards providing the fascinating social history and to a range of Contemporary city necessary powers to improve, maintain remarkable features including its three hot Although classically-inspired, Bath’s and manage streets. A Board of springs, its Roman archaeology and, not Georgian architecture and town planning Commissioners was subsequently least, the harmony of sublime landscape were also avant-garde, radical and exciting. established, comprising twenty of Bath’s setting, urban design, architecture and The new Bath was consciously engineered most esteemed public fi gures to oversee materials which so successfully reinvented to support contemporary lifestyles and every aspect of the development and the city in the 18th century. aspirations founded, amongst other things, maintenance of the streetscape. Indeed, by the end of that century, on ideals of taste and the virtues of Vehicular access to the city’s streets, Bath was a recognised leader in the art of public life. In short, the city, shaped by clearly even then a source of chaos and city-making, having transformed itself from the imagination, genius and enterprise of congestion, became strictly controlled a rather muddled, cluttered and economically individuals such as Ralph Allen, John Wood ‘…with even wagons of those contracted to uncertain medieval town into an elegant, (the elder) and Richard ‘Beau’ Nash, cleanse the streets being required to have imposing and ordered contemporary city: created a vision of the sort of place it aspired vacated the city before nine o’clock in the ‘Towards 1800 Bath was being touted as to be and then invested in its achievement. morning’ [3] in order to create a more pleasant ‘the most admired City in Europe’ a beautiful This vision was a fusion of contemporary environment for pedestrians. This was urban artefact in its own right’ [1] and classical values, social aspirations and followed by the removal of street clutter With its inspirational urbanism and economic ambition. It led to the creation of ‘…such as signs, boards, sheds and architecture, its spa waters and its status one of Europe’s most beautiful and civilised projections’ [4] in order to tidy up the centre. as a centre for culture, pleasure and fashion, cities, a premier spa and health resort and Impressive new pavements and footnote Bath kept ahead of all possible competitors a celebrated ‘valley of pleasure’. In addition parades of the fi nest pennant stone were [1] and [2] from ‘Paving, Lighting, and its economy thrived. It was frequented to design, the city was equally ahead of its laid and the provision of street lamps was Cleansing: Street Improvement and by royalty, the aristocracy and glitterati of time in setting new standards of health-care, increased, initially in principal streets, but Maintenance in 18th Century Bath’, Trevor Fawcett [3] and [4] from Mike the day and its successes were admired social behaviour and culture. eventually extending to all key thoroughfares. Chapman et al. 22 23 Enduring qualities below As the timeline illustrates, the 18th century Timeline illustrating the was a period of unparalleled creativity and development of Bath’s productivity in the history and evolution public realm of the city. A whole series of infl uences converged to refashion and reorder the physical identity, social status and economic competitiveness of Bath, creating an acknowledged masterpiece among European cities. The development of the city’s public realm was central to this achievement. It stitched together old and new parts of a radically expanded centre creating the sense of a total composition and providing a unique platform for animation, public life, pleasure and wellbeing. This achievement was underpinned by new standards of design, city centre management and maintenance which resulted in the control of vehicular traffi c, the removal of street clutter and the installation of high quality and highly distinctive street furniture and fi nishes. This exemplar provides a valuable and useful precedent for 21st century Bath as it Travel time from Bath to London: 10 days embarks on the most signifi cant period of change and growth since the Georgian era. 1000 1500 1600 1650

PEOPLE 800 BC 1558 Elizabeth I 1603 James I 1625 Charles I 1649 Oliver 1660 Charles II 1685 James II AND EVENTS King BIadud, start of reign start of reign start of reign Cromwell, start of reign start of reign legendary founder Lord Protector, of Bath and the succeeded by sacred temple of Richard Cromwell Aqua Sullis in 1658

TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION

ARCHITECTURE 1st C BC 118–25 AD 10th Century AD 1090 John de Villula 1174 St John’s 1508–1580 1575–1652 1635 AND URBAN Vitruvius, roman writer, Pantheon, best- Bath Abbey, which had began to build a new Hospital, Andrea Palladio, one Inigo Jones, regarded Queens House, DEVELOPMENT architect and engineer. preserved Roman been obliterated by cathedral, including founded for the of the most influential as the first significant Greenwich, Most famous for building and one Norse invaders, was two new baths within sustenance of architects of the English architect. completed by 1674–1762 asserting the three of the oldest revived as a community its precincts pilgrims, poor western world Influenced by Palladio Inigo Jones Beau Nash, celebrated qualities of furnitas important building of Benedictine monks people, nuns and Vitruvius dandy and leader of (strong/ durable), utilitas in the world living by the hot springs and monks 1106 King’s Bath fashion. He played (useful), and venustas built within the (beautiful) a leading role in making grounds of the Bath the most THE BUILDING monastery fashionable resort in 8000 BC 70 AD The Romans 675 The saxon 18th Century England OF BATH Archaeological commence a series name Hat Bathu of Baths and a meaning hot evidence of 1693–1764 temple dedicated baths is first human activity Ralph Allen, a major around the to Sulis Minerva recorded businessman and springs up to philanthropist and a 10,000 years old key figure in the creation of Georgian Bath. He devised a scheme for TRANSPORT improving the postal system and achieved a near monopoly in the supply and export of Bath stone, enabling Bath to expand into a major spa resort

STREETS 1615 Appointment AND SPACES of official scavenger or waste collector

STREET 1650s Street FURNITURE lighting limited to oil lanterns affixed to private buildings

City ID Limited | May 2010

24 25 The timeline outlines a range left right Subsequent centuries saw of infl uences on Bath’s evolution South Parade, c.1784 Southgate Street c.1905 further innovations such as the as a city, including important introduction of the railways, people and events, technology electric street lights and the Bath and innovation, architecture tram system, but the increasing and urban development, key phases dominance of the motor car during of building growth, as well as the 20th century and decades of specifi c innovations in transport, under-investment in the public streets and spaces and street realm has resulted in a more furniture. This demonstrates fragmented and disconnected city a fascinating convergence of centre which has lost much of the infl uences and activities during individuality, distinctiveness and the 18th century, which gave rise quality Bath formerly enjoyed. to the remarkable physical structure and form of the Georgian city. Bath peaked during this era in terms of expressing its individuality, distinctiveness and quality, which in turn strengthened its reputation and success as an international destination.

Travel time from Bath to London: 10 hours Travel time from Bath to London: three hours 1700 1750 1800 1850

PEOPLE 1702 Queen Anne 1714 George I 1727 George II 1760 George III 1820 George IV 1830 William IV 1837 Queen 1861 Death of The Victorians were AND EVENTS start of reign start of reign start of reign start of reign start of reign start of reign Victoria start Prince Albert responsible for the first of reign presentation of the Roman 1689 William III 1840 The first postage baths to the city and its & Mary II start stamps (Penny Post) visitors since the baths of reign came into use fell into disuse in the Saxon period 1840 Queen Victoria married Prince Albert TECHNOLOGY 1728 Avon 1818 Bath Gaslight 1851 The Great AND INNOVATION Navigation opened & Coke Company Exhibition opened Locksbrook Works at Crystal Palace was formed by Prince Albert

ARCHITECTURE Georgian Regency Victorian AND URBAN 1704–1754 1715 First English 1728–1782 1740–1770 1807 Gas lamps City Growth. During the 1863 The first 1875 Act specifying the make DEVELOPMENT John Wood, the Elder, translation of the John Wood, Bath and London first introduced into 18th and early 19th underground and type of lamp to meet introduced uniform architecture of the younger, developed an intense Golden Lane, London centuries, Bath grew far railway is opened performance requirements facades and rhythmic A.Palladio published worked as his father’s rivalry regarding the beyond the medieval city in London Sugg’s London Argand No1 proportions in the city assistant completing opulence of their walls, largely through following classical both The Circus and respective speculative development 1878 The first principles of symmetry Royal Crescent streetscapes public electric lighting installed in London THE BUILDING 1707 Local Act of 1727 John Wood 1728 Pennant 1764 Circus 1774 Royal OF BATH Parliament made starts building sandstone became completed Crescent statutory provision for in Bath the principal completed 1705 First paved paving, cleansing and material for paving 1754–1755 lighting the streets – throughout Bath North & South 1870–1940s a large walk installed – 1771 Upper Post 1774 designed to enhance Gates demolished number of Bath’s Terrace Walk, using Assembly Snuffer at No.1 Bath’s reputation in central roadways limestone flags rooms Royal Crescent order to further fuel the were paved with completed in wrought iron boom of its fortunes wood to reduce noise problems of TRANSPORT 1789 Bath 1810 The Kennet & Avon 1826 Macadam 1841 Brunel’s Great Western iron-tyred wheels 1880 Horse drawn Improvement Canal opened in 1810, family appointed Railway Paddington to tram system Act passed completing a through route surveyors of the Bath Bristol line, opened 31st launched from London to Bristol Turnpike Roads August 1840

STREETS 1707 Authorisation 1740 John Wood 1750 Bath chair 1766 Act gave Commissioners 1830 Pennant Opening of Public Parks 1868 The first AND SPACES granted for the repair specifies Pennant invented by control of enhancing the becomes preferred Prior Park Landscape street crossing and widening of stone for the James Heath streets, which included pitching material for Gardens (begun 1730s), lights were erected approach roads Parades improving street lighting and the City’s streets Sydney Gardens (1795), in England to the city pavements and also reducing Royal Victoria Park (1829), 1881 First 1750’s Cast Iron the clutter of signs, rubbish Abbey Cemetery (1844) and street control foot scrapers and sundries Lansdown Cemetery signs appeared appear 1784 Detail of oil 1720’s early Georgian lamps at The Circus railings consisted of uprights terminating STREET 1850 The first post Street furniture 1702 Nine new in spike finials in the 1770’s advancement boxes were built painted black as FURNITURE oil burning form of arrow heads of casting techniques, lamps ordered trademark motifs and a national sign 1890 Electric street lights decoration became of mourning from London Early 1700’s – glass bowl introduced in Bath – evidence fashionable, including 1846 Erection of pillar with oil lamps designed suggests that Bath had one urns, griffons, swags of lamps suggests a degree of of the first comprehensive 1738 Establishment of a Pre 1829 Erection ornamentation previously bell flowers, medallions, 1800s – 960 oil lamps 1819 Introduction of public lighting systems in night watch to safeguard of Gas street lights unrecorded. The usual lamp form anthemions and palmettes were in service gas lighting to Bath the country individuals and property in The Circus was a single post and lantern

26 27 far left right Southgate Street c.1925 High Street 2007 left Bath Street c.1950

Travel time from Bath to London: One hour, 15 minutes 1900 1950 2000 2010

1901 Edward VII, 1914 Start of WWI 1939 Start of WWII 1945 End of 1952 Elizabeth II 1987 City of Bath PEOPLE start of reign WWII crowned inscribed as a AND EVENTS 1918 End of WWI 1936 George VI UNESCO World crowned 1910 George V Heritage Site start of reign

1895 The first 1930 Frank Whittle 1960 Halogen 1979 Cellular 1990 The World TECHNOLOGY motor carriage invents a jet engine lamp invented phones invented Wide Web AND INNOVATION in England created by Tim 1933 Commercial AC (The Hon Evelyn 1981 The first IBM Berners-Lee sodium bulbs Ellis in his PC invented introduced by Phillips 2006 Millennium technology Panhard- 1985 Windows prize awarded to Shuji Levassour) program invented Nakamura for work with by Microsoft blue laser Edwardian 2006 Thermae ARCHITECTURE 1923 First electric Bath Spa opens AND URBAN 1896 Speed limit traffic signal: 1932 First parking 1946 BS 1308: for horseless invented by meter invented by Reinforced DEVELOPMENT carriages in G A Morgan Carl C Magee Concrete Street Britain raised Lighting Columns from 4mph 1927 BS 307: 1934 Cat eyes or roads to 14mph Street Lighting reflectors invented by launched Percy Shaw 1952 BS 1840: Tubular Columns 1903 First use of for Street Lighting 1980’s 1995 THE BUILDING tarmacadam Manchester Kingsmead OF BATH specifically bollard specified Square mentioned public realm enhancments commenced 2001 Milson street redevelopment completed

1985 Streetmaster Georgian ian 2006 Traffic TRANSPORT bench used throughout Bath. ath. Regulation Streetmaster Ltd was founded nded in 1985 and launched the Georgian Heritage style bench in ench in the late 1980’s 1986 Deregulation 19e8gulation 1986 Opening 1990’s Plastic bins 1980’s Concrete of local bus of uBs of Bath’s first begin to appear bins used in Bath services Pa Park and Ride in Bath

1904 First electric trams 1923 First white 1933 First electromatic 1963 Colin STREETS line appeared vehicle actuated light traffic Buchanan release AND SPACES in Bath control system (EVA) ‘Traffic in Towns’ report 1939 When tram closed – roadways were laid with tarmacadam 1898 Cast iron electric 1990’s Leander street lamps installed architectural at the circus 2002 iplus digital information STREET heritage style points installed in Bath FURNITURE ‘Godalming” (now removed) signage system introduced in Bath 2005 Cast iron lights recast and installed 2004 Bath bollard at the circus recast for use in Milson Street

28 29 are distinctive and authentic to Bath. 3. Quality This approach strongly advocates The investment made in quality products and contemporary bespoke design solutions materials during the transformation of Bath’s THE OPPORTUNITY which express and refl ect ‘Bathness’, public realm in the 18th century is still evident rather than standard ‘off the shelf’ on the streets of the city today. Looking solutions which speak of ‘anytown’. ahead, it is proposed that only the highest This distinctive design approach is quality of design, materials, production and REINFORCING recommended for a variety of products maintenance should be employed for the including street furniture, street signage 21st century refashioning of Bath’s public and wayfi nding systems, street market realm and movement systems, refl ecting BATH’S DNA stalls, public transport vehicles and graphic Bath’s status as a World Heritage Site and and branding materials. To be successful international visitor destination. it will require strong design direction and management and effective community engagement. In particular, it must ensure that individual design components form part of a coherent design strategy for the city centre as a whole.

The remarkable success and enduring quality right Values for Bath’s of Bath’s 18th century reinvention suggests transformation that the current opportunity to refashion the public realm and movement systems within Beautiful the city centre should, similarly, be guided by a clear set of values and aspirations.

Reinforcing Bath’s DNA 1. Sense of place or ‘Bathness’ The remarkable success and enduring quality The approach to designing Bath’s public realm of Bath’s 18th century reinvention suggests and movement systems should be informed Venustas that the current opportunity to refashion the by and contribute to the DNA or ‘Bathness’ public realm and movement systems within of Bath as a place. ‘Bathness’ is an attempt the city centre should, similarly, be guided to defi ne the unique and special qualities of by a clear set of values and aspirations. the city that make it feel like nowhere else. The values recommended by this strategy In a physical sense these range from natural for Bath’s 21st century transformation are, features such as its topography, quality of similarly, a fusion of past and future, classical light, green vistas, honey-coloured limestone Vitruvian and cutting edge. They are inspired by Bath’s and steaming hot springs; to built features DNA and character and by the outstanding such as its continuity of form, architectural principlesp s universal values of the World Heritage Site. set pieces, grand and intimate spaces, the The values draw upon the classical relationship of built form to landscape setting ideals of order, balance, elegance, proportion and thermal baths; to quirky details such Utilitas Firmitas and coherence and the Vitruvian principles as its street names incised on buildings and of Utilitas (usefulness), Firmitas (durability) 18th century wrought iron work. However, and Venustas (beauty). However, they also ‘Bathness’ also refers to a range of non- Strong or look ahead and speak of the sort of modern, physical features which speak of the soul Useful durable vibrant, sustainable and inclusive living city and spirit of the city and its people. that Bath aspires to become and encourage These are articulated in more depth within ideas and design solutions that are ahead of the Future for Bath’s DNA themes of: their time. water and wellbeing; pleasure and culture; imagination and design; knowledge and Overarching principles invention; and living heritage. Building on this approach, three overarching principles are recommended below to inspire 2. Distinctive design the design of an exceptional 21st century The essence of Bath and its unique attributes public realm and to promote a distinctive should infuse the design of all elements of the visual identity for Bath: public realm and movement systems within the city, creating products and spaces that 30 31 Lightness of touch The opportunity to reinforce Bath’s DNA A key element of Bath’s beauty is the through the refurbishment of Bath’s public lightness of touch employed in the design realm and the rebalancing of movement THE OPPORTUNITY of the 18th century city. This applied to systems represents a signifi cant design the simplicity and quality of the Georgian and fi nancial challenge for the city. streetscape and its delicate wrought iron However, successfully executed over time detailing, as well as to the elegant building and combined with Bath’s many other assets, THE ESSENCE OF BATH facades. Today, as the public realm within it will lead to the creation of an incomparable the centre becomes increasingly cluttered city. It will signal the beginning of a new era and incoherent the adage ‘less is more’ in the evolution of Bath as a place where past suggests the way forward in terms of ideals of public life, health, wellbeing and future design approach. Bath’s streets and happiness are expressed in a contemporary spaces need to be pared-back to provide context and are accessible to all. a simple, beautiful, high quality setting for its breathtaking buildings and vistas. Where street furniture, wayfi nding products, artworks and water features are introduced, they should be designed with a lightness of touch, a fi neness of detail and structure, which are worthy of their remarkable setting.

The application of clearly defi ned values at each stage of the design process will help to instil right Generic values Place values Public realm values Bath’s public realm the essence of ‘Bathness’ in a wide range and movement values and attributes of products and services. Water Style Walkable city and wellbeing _graceful DNA Values in the hands of relatively few landowners, legible/compact/connected _avant-garde The application of clearly defi ned values at including the Council) and its World Heritage _sophisticated each stage of the design process will help Site status all favour a bold and innovative _cultured Social interaction to instil the essence of ‘Bathness’ in a wide approach, where old hierarchies of car and life enabling, animation, play range of products and services. pedestrian are reversed, giving people, This approach has the potential to cyclists and public transport priority access. positively infl uence every aspect of the The aspiration to make Bath the UK’s most Generosity of space user experience of the city centre, helping walkable city should be a central tenet of for pedestrian movement Pleasure Individuality to create a strong visual identity, point of movement planning and public realm design and culture _unique rather than differentiation and long term competitive for the entire city centre. corporate Total composition advantage for Bath as a city. _independent spirit city form ‘read as one’ The DNA values diagram (see right) Total composition _local rather than global provides a framework and checklist of design As in the 18th century, Bath city centre values to guide the refashioning of Bath’s largely continues to be read as a complete Set pieces urban environment. These values provide a entity or total composition with important an organising framework marker or point of reference for each stage visual and physical links to the wider of the design process. The diagram takes the landscape. This applies to its buildings which, Imagination Beauty Sequencing generic values established in the Future for although a mixture of architectural styles and design _symmetry continuous spaces/vistas Bath vision, highlighting Water and Wellbeing from different eras, are unifi ed by their skin of _proportion as the most distinctive and defi ning theme, golden oolitic limestone. It also once applied _balance/harmony and then cascades these through to a to the public realm, where the streets, Formality/informality _elegance matrix of Place Values and Public Realm spaces, parks and gardens of the centre meshing formal/informal _constantly reviving/ Values and Attributes. were unifi ed by a streetscape of exceptional rejuvenating/regenerative Of the Public Realm Values and quality. The opportunity to reinforce a sense Blending Attributes listed there are three that warrant of total composition in a refashioned and landscape/settings particular attention. expanded city centre should be a lodestar of Knowledge Authenticity the design process. However, unity should and invention _genuine Walkable city not be confused with uniformity and the Re-connecting _distinctive Bath was the UK’s pre-eminent walking and simple, coherent approach recommended by connecting/surfacing water _craftsmanship promenading city in the 18th century and this strategy must also create opportunities _sustainable has the potential to achieve the same status for individuality, variety, eccentricity and Lightness of touch in the 21st century. The compact nature of exuberance in carefully selected locations. less is more the city centre, its unique land ownership pattern (where large parts of the centre lie 32 3333 PART 2: THE BIG IDEA

CREATING THE CANVAS FOR PUBLIC LIFE THE PLAN

34 35 Thhe ssttraatetegyy hasa thehe pottenenttiiaal to trt annsfsform Baath intnto tthhe UKUK’s moost peededestrianan-fririene dlly ccityty, rredud cicingng trraafffifi c conngeeststioon anand aiair CREATING THE CANVAS ppolluttioon.n In addddititiono , itt willl imprp oove pupubliicc ininformrmatatioon anand the prp essenttatit onn of thhe ccityty’s herriti agagee.. It willl allllowow Bata h too proromootete FOR PUBLIC LIFE itts ece olo ooggy wwiithth theh reeddisiscoc vev ry andnd eenhah nccemmene t of theh rivvere sis ddee. Inn shoortrt, iti wwill crereatte tthhe coc ndndittioonsns forr a wellcocomim ngng, inincclusivve annd enengagagig ngg pubublil c lil ffee in tht e imimprprovvede pubublic spacceses of thhe cciitty cennttre.. Whhenen combbineed wiwith thehe Couounncciil’ss CCllimmata e ChChaannge aggeendnda and wiithth emmeergrgini g prpropopossalls ffor busisinen ssss gror wth,h rettaiil anand cuculttururee, thehe Pubublic Reaallm anand Moovevemem ntt Straatet gyy will heelplp to rer dedefi nee Batth as a leeadadinng heealtht y, eththicicala and susu taainabble 212 st cenntuury city. It wiw ll alsso be a major coontn riibutor tto a revitaliissedd local ecoonoommyy aannd tot a diversee, compmpelling andn coontet mpm orarry cuultturural life,e to whhich pepeople, iddeae s and inveesttmment aree likikele y too grar vitaatee.

The canvas should be beautiful, simple, functional and coherent. It should offer diverse and well connected spaces which enable a variety of events and activities to occur. It must offer clear, coordinated information and heritage interpretation to its users and be easy to access and navigate on foot, by bicycle and by public transport.

Creating the canvas for public life identity. This approach is not recommended right The vision and philosophy behind the merely to beautify the centre, but as part Plaza Oriente, Public Realm and Movement Strategy is of a strategy to distinguish and differentiate Madrid both simple and profound. It advocates that Bath from other cities and to create the best Bath’s public realm – the shared spaces possible conditions to enable a vibrant and between buildings in the centre of the city successful public life to fl ourish. – should be recognised, invested-in and managed as one of the city’s most valuable Public life and wellbeing and exciting assets. If realised, the canvas will provide an Bath’s spaces and streets are the exemplary base onto which new ideas, public rooms and corridors of the city centre, aspirations and expressions of public life which are animated by the movement and can be added, increasing opportunities interaction of people. The character, quality for a rich mix of people of all ages and and vibrancy of these spaces has a direct backgrounds – residents, workers and infl uence on how local residents, visitors visitors – to assemble, interact and play. and businesses experience and feel about Cities have always been places for Bath and, consequently, on the image, people to meet and connect and it is widely vitality, economic success and health of the recognised that positive human interaction city as a whole. has the power to enhance lives, enabling Forthcoming and future measures to higher levels of social cohesion, happiness calm and manage the movement of vehicular and wellbeing. As a city which once enjoyed traffi c within the city provide a major an international reputation as a health opportunity to transform Bath’s public realm and pleasure resort, Bath once more has into a world-class canvas for public life. the opportunity to reinvent itself as a A sequence of beautiful, simple, 21st century exemplar of urban living functional and well-connected city centre and wellbeing. streets and spaces are proposed as the basis of the canvas. These should be enhanced Walkable city by sustainably sourced, high quality local This strategy provides a long-term plan materials and by unique products of to enable Bath to achieve an international exceptional design, reinforcing Bath’s unique status for its public realm. 36 3737 38 39 Bath of the future The Plan looks 20 years ahead to a rejuvenated city THE PLAN centre that is perceived as a total composition. It has well-managed and maintained streets and spaces which are free of unnecessary clutter and display a sense of A FRAMEWORK FOR simplicity and order. The coherence and distinctiveness of the city centre are reinforced by a high quality range of bespoke street furniture and by the use of one type TRANSFORMING of natural stone paving throughout.

BATH’S PUBLIC REALM The heart of the centre is predominantly car-free and is served by an integrated access and movement system providing state of the art public transport and cycling facilities and a comprehensive range of AND MOVEMENT wayfi nding and information products to assist pedestrians to navigate around and beyond the centre with ease. These systems have been developed using the same SYSTEMS design concept and values adopted for street furniture and add to an overall sense of design quality and cohesion. The centre offers a diverse range of cultural and community events and activities, public art and water features, places to eat, drink and socialise, and places Until now, the city has lacked a big picture that for peace and contemplation. expresses the type of public realm and public life it is seeking to generate. There is a rhythm to the network of spaces and an expanded set of clear pedestrian circuits that encourage wider circulation within the city centre, supporting retail Transforming Bath’s public realm and Delivering the Plan and cultural activity; and beyond the centre supporting a movement system over the next 20 years It is proposed that the Plan will be wider network of heritage and cultural attractions, parks The Plan is the physical manifestation of the implemented over the long term as part of a and gardens, and connecting to surrounding residential Big Idea outlined in the previous section. phased and carefully managed programme neighbourhoods. It is bold and aspirational, providing a of initiatives. Each phase will contribute to coherent long-term master plan and design the gradual transformation of the city’s public framework for the transformation of Bath’s realm and must be underpinned by a robust public realm and movement systems. It is movement framework. Like any masterplan, also pragmatic and opportunistic, advocating the Plan is designed to be fl exible. Changes a long-term delivery strategy that can be to the proposed phasing will inevitably occur The River Corridor is a key element of the experience of the implemented in phases over the next 10 to as unexpected development opportunities city. It offers continuous pedestrian access, a series of new 20 years as new development and arise. These can be accommodated subject and existing pedestrian bridge crossings and a variety of investment opportunities and public to the necessary transport and movement well-connected river corridor spaces and character areas transport infrastructure are realised. infrastructure being in place. which contribute to the green infrastructure and ecology The development of the Plan provides of the city and offer a range of leisure opportunities. a renewed sense of direction and potential for the future of the city centre, which is inspired by an understanding and appreciation of its past. The Plan establishes an ambitious end goal to guide and shape individual development and public realm improvement schemes within the centre so, like pieces of The historic core of the city centre is seamlessly connected a jigsaw puzzle, they incrementally contribute to new development areas immediately to the East, South to the fulfi lment of an overall picture: in this and West, uniting old and new architecture. Improved case a unifi ed, connected and refashioned connections are also provided to the areas of outstanding public realm, where the whole is greater than 18th century architecture and urban design to the North the sum of the parts. and East.

40 4141 The lattice right At the macro level, the Plan provides Howard Street a simple mental map of an expanded water feature, city centre. This comprises a lattice of Sheffi eld refashioned North–South and East–West streets and spaces, framed by the River Avon and an enhanced river corridor. The lattice refl ects and extends the existing urban structure of the city centre.

The Plan Major streets, squares and spaces to be improved Major and minor connecting routes to be improved Existing routes

42 43 PART 3: A CITY REBALANCED, REFASHIONED, REVEALED AND REANIMATED

THE COMPOSING ELEMENTS 1: A REBALANCED MOVEMENT AND SPATIAL STRUCTURE 2: A REFASHIONED STREETSCAPE AND RIVERSCAPE 3: A CITY REVEALED THROUGH A NEW CITY WAYFINDING SYSTEM 4: A CANVAS FOR PUBLIC LIFE

44 45 THE COMPOSING ELEMENTS

right The approach represents a major opportunity The composing to enhance the identity and economic success elements of the city and the happiness and wellbeing of Access and its residents, workers and visitors. movement

Creating the canvas for public life collaborative and multidisciplinary working In order to deliver the aspirations of this within the Council and across a range strategy, a more fundamental understanding of sectors in order to ensure that each and rebalancing of the city’s urban structure component contributes towards the delivery is required. of the total composition. REBALANCE Like many other places, Bath’s urban structure is made up of a series of interwoven layers representing different features and Understanding Experience functions of the city. These layers include and usability and authenticity its movement and transport systems, the structure, scale and sequence of its streets and spaces, and the quality, fi nish and feel of REANIMATE the place. All of these layers can positively or CanvasC for negatively affect the sensory and emotional publicp lifefee experience of using or visiting the city. The delivery of the Plan for refashioning the public realm requires a REVEAL REFASHION planned programme of actions to improve each interconnecting layer of the urban structure, in order to deliver an integrated City Streets, and coherent city centre, which provides an information spaces and outstanding canvas for public life. system riverscape This holistic approach to integrating Identity and movement, connecting streets and spaces legibility and revealing and refashioning the place as part of one coherent plan is unusual and forward-thinking. It represents a major opportunity to enhance the identity and economic success of the city and the happiness, health and wellbeing of its residents, workers and visitors. However, it will require a step change in the existing management of the city, requiring strong, intelligent leadership and coordinated, 46 4747 1. Rebalancing Bath’s movement However, it advocates that intelligent and of beautiful and successful destination visitors to spend time in the city’s spaces and spatial structure innovative solutions are required to re-order spaces across an expanded city centre and destinations. It proposes a whole Access and movement within the city is access and movement priorities within and along a rediscovered River Corridor. journey approach, that will link and connect naturally complex and challenging, but a the city centre in order to put pedestrians, These spaces, which will be refashioned or information across all channels of delivery rebalancing of the existing movement and especially the mobility impaired, then cyclists designed to offer a variety of atmospheres, at all stages of the journey. The system will spatial structure is required in order to and public transport vehicles fi rmly at the top activities and events, will be well-connected balance simple, hierarchical information with achieve an expanded pedestrian-friendly of the movement hierarchy. This is essential by civilised pedestrian-friendly streets, highly detailed mapping and interpretation city centre. This layer contains a description to enable Bath to create better, healthier encouraging people to explore and to meet the users needs and successfully of the range of interconnected traffi c and and more enjoyable places for people. experience a larger area of the centre communicate the city. movement issues from the local to the New proposals and solutions for and wider city beyond. regional, and proposes a series of measures the city centre must also acknowledge the It also proposes a new, contemporary 4. Reanimating Bath’s centre through that seek to rebalance and improve levels importance of securing and improving access bespoke range of street furniture for the activities and events of accessibility into and around the city. for people whose mobility is impaired. city centre and the resurfacing of streets The previous three layers will, in combination, The majority of these actions are and spaces with natural stone paving. help to create a canvas for public life in Bath already planned and most are contained 2. Refashioning Bath’s streetscape over the next 10 to 20 years that could result within The Joint Local Transport Plan for and riverscape 3. Revealing Bath through a new wayfi nding in a renaissance of urban living, cultural the West of England. Some of these actions This layer addresses the network of and city information system expression, economic success, environmental require additional research and development, streets and spaces within the city centre, This layer recognises the important role sustainability and health and wellbeing for while others already have funding identifi ed and the connections to the River Corridor information plays in ensuring the city is easy the city’s residents, businesses and visitors. and are planned to be implemented. environment, parks and open spaces and to access and enjoyable to live, work and This approach is not anti-car and surrounding residential neighbourhoods. relax in. It will ensure an information interface acknowledges the important role that cars It seeks to overcome the challenge of decline is developed for Bath that makes day-to-day will continue to play in modern life and in and decay within the public realm over journeys to and around the city easier and the future of Bath’s economy. recent decades and to establish a lattice more effi cient, whilst also attracting more

A student left The composing elements A resident A tourist reanimate verb /ree’animayt/ A shopper A family restore to life, restore A cyclist to activity or liveliness A business visitor reveal verb /ri’veel/ display or show,

allow to appear refashion verb /ree’fash( )n/e

fashion again or differently rebalance verb /ree’bal( )ns/e balance again, restore the correct balance to

48 49 an impact on capacity and will require the is unlikely to fulfi l many of the aspirations provision of suitable alternatives before they of the Council’s vision and its appeal as a can be realised. visitor, shopping and business destination 1: A REBALANCED will decline over time. Unlocking the potential of the city centre Measures are required to maintain The successful movement of people into convenient access to the city whilst also and within the city is highly dependent on reducing the penetration of private cars MOVEMENT AND an integrated approach with the wider region into its pedestrian heart. Any proposed and the city’s broadest catchment area. improvements to the movement network Convenient access from major cities such should take into consideration the likely SPATIAL STRUCTURE as Bristol and areas of signifi cant population impacts upon the Strategic Road Network such as the Midlands, South Wales and (SRN), namely the A4, A36, A46 and M4. London as well as from key arrival points Proposals to remove or restrain private car such as Bristol International Airport, are access in the city centre should be supported crucial to ensure a successful future for the by the provision of alternative methods of city. Local towns within the district such as transport, to minimise the impact of shifting Keynsham, Midsomer Norton and Radstock the private car elsewhere. and a number of neighbouring Wiltshire and Currently there is a high perception of Somerset towns look to Bath as a major Park and Ride services, however, perceptions centre for employment, shopping, and of other forms of alternative transport need culture. The city needs to continue to ensure to be improved signifi cantly. Public transport easy access for its catchment area if it is must be more frequent, reliable, affordable to sustain its appeal and economy. and appealing. Cycling should be encouraged At peak times, Bath’s key radial with enhancements to the cycling network. routes are at the limits of their capacity. Above all, the city centre must become more The primary objective is to reorder and rebalance With nationally forecast growth in vehicular civilised to encourage people to swap their traffi c, and with anticipated levels of cars for other modes of movement. transport and movement systems within the city development, it is essential that current in favour of the pedestrian, cyclist and public transport and future transportation challenges are proactively addressed. Without bold user. This approach provides the key to unlocking and new movement solutions and changes in reclaiming a network of connected streets and spaces behaviour – particularly the habitual use and promoting the canvas for public life. of cars for short, local journeys – the city

Key issues More recently, the introduction of the Priority CONGESTION IN BATH The tension between the movement of Access Point – commonly referred to as the vehicular traffi c and pedestrians within Bus Gate – which limits North–South routes, Annual cost of congestion in Bath = £50m (Joint Local Transport Plan). the city centre is referred to under The has removed signifi cant levels of through Decline of the Public Realm in Part 1, Page 12. traffi c from the centre reducing congestion 21% of travelling time in the Bath, Bristol, North Somerset and South Large areas of Bath city centre currently in some central streets, and improving the Gloucestershire region is spent at a standstill. feel as though they have been designed for experience for pedestrians. cars and not people. It is on the more peripheral streets Bath’s road network is severely constrained. The primary objective is to build on and spaces adjacent to the city core and infl uence current and future plans that the impact of congestion, particularly Over 27,000 people drive to work in the city every day, and a third of these are to reorder and rebalance transport and for pedestrians, is most problematic. Bath residents. There is an average car occupancy rate of 1.1 persons per car. movement systems within the city in The environmental quality currently favour of the pedestrian, cyclist and public experienced in parts of the city centre is Public transport is adversely affected by congestion. transport user. This approach provides the frequently compromised by near constant key to unlocking and reclaiming the network vehicular movement through a signifi cant Congestion creates pollution. of connected streets and spaces and to number of streets and spaces including stimulate the vibrant public life aspired George Street, Queen Square, and in front of Pedestrians and vehicles compete for limited space in the city. to in Creating the Canvas for Public Life. Green Park Station. This constrains the heart There are already some successful of the city centre, providing a barrier to the The Government states 8,000 new homes have to be built in Bath, including the fully or partially pedestrianised streets and delivery of an expanded centre, generates urban extension. This is forecast to result in increased commuting by car. spaces within the centre such as the central high levels of air and noise pollution, and shopping spine of Union Street to Southgate impedes the free fl ow of pedestrians. Exceedances of National Air Quality Objectives for hourly mean concentrations Street and the public spaces around the Initial modelling exercises of city of nitrogen dioxide in numerous locations. Abbey and Roman Baths. In these areas centre traffi c movement have identifi ed public life is able to fl ourish, to such an opportunities to change the balance of extent that it results in high levels of certain city streets and spaces in favour of overcrowding at peak times. the pedestrian. Some of these proposals A range of other measures have will have a minimal impact on highway been introduced over the past 30 years, capacity by enabling traffi c to be reasonably including restrictions to East–West vehicular accommodated elsewhere within the through movement across the city centre. network. However some proposals will have 50 51 The movement strategy _tackling congestion First generation projects Over the next 20 years the West of _improving road safety for all users England sub region is set to respond to _improving air quality Greater Bristol Bus Network The BTP formed the basis of a Major The ‘fi rst generation’ initiatives the requirements of growth set out in the _improving accessibility The GBBN is an initiative that has Scheme Business Case (MSBC) bid of the GBBN, Bath Package and Regional Spatial Strategy. Growth targets _improving the quality of life £42 million of Government funding. to the Department for Transport CIVITAS outlined above will bring for Bath and North East Somerset are being It will benefi t people through in 2006. ‘Programme Entry’ for the levels of Government, EC and addressed through the development of Measures contained in the Joint Local the introduction of showcase BTP was confi rmed in October 2007, private sector partnership funding the Core Strategy and Local Development Transport Plan form part of the Council’s bus routes that will signifi cantly meaning that Government funding that are unprecedented in Bath’s for the scheme was provisionally recent history. They represent a Framework. The levels of anticipated growth Capital Programme for transport and include improve levels of bus based access to the city. Work is currently in secured through its Major Transport major step forward in the provision are signifi cant and an effi cient transport a range of current initiatives and projects that progress to upgrade strategic bus Scheme funding process. of public transport and new infrastructure is essential to enable this will provide the basis for rebalancing Bath’s routes into Bath and Bristol from The BTP will be complemented technology and will play a major scale of development to be realised. movement and spatial structure. surrounding areas by 2012. Key by other initiatives that will part in rebalancing access and This challenge has been recognised features of the initiative: be delivered as part of the movement within the city over development of the SouthGate the next 20 years, assisting the initially within the Joint Local Transport Plan First generation projects The X39, 173, 178 and 184 delivery of key parts of the Plan bus routes will be upgraded area at the Southern edge of the to 2011 developed with North Somerset; Key transport initiatives include The Greater city centre. These include: for a refashioned public realm. Bristol City and South Gloucestershire Bristol Bus Network (GBBN), The Bath to showcase status. This is anticipated to increase bus A new public transport interchange Council. This plan contains comprehensive Package and the EC CIVITAS programme. patronage by implementing a including a revamped Bath Spa multi-model proposals and solutions which signifi cant enhancement to the Station and new bus station at have been formulated through a rigorous quality of service provided. SouthGate, linked by a new consultative process. They address the wide The bus routes will include public space. range of issues that affect Bath and other dedicated buses, ‘real time’ A remodelled Dorchester Street, areas within the region and are grouped information systems and aimed at enhancing this key bus stop infrastructure. gateway and welcome point to under the main national objectives of: the city, reducing the impact and volume of parked buses, and The Bath Transportation Package improving pedestrian movement left The Bath Transportation Package across the space. Bath and its regional (BTP) is a £54 million scheme connections designed to tackle congestion in M4 Bath and the surrounding area by CIVITAS Renaissance improving public transport and The Council has secured €4 M5 enhancing pedestrian access for million of European Commission the benefi t of residents, commuters (EC) funding to improve transport M49 and visitors. The BTP includes the options in Bath. With the Council’s M4 following elements: own contribution and funding from partners, the total project will Cribbs Expanding the city’s three Causeway existing Park and Rides and invest £5.15 million into the city. The programme will explore innovations M32 creating a new Park and Ride to the East of the city, thereby increasing in transportation and implement Park and Ride capacity from 1,990 research and pilot projects that to 4,510 spaces. push existing boundaries. The programme will complement Creating a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) the BTP bid by ensuring that route, including a 1.4km section Bristol A46 design quality and innovation are of “off-street” dedicated bus embedded within the proposals. route which will remove Park and Key features of Ride buses from congestion for a the programme: signifi cant amount of their journey. A feasibility study into a Creating a more pedestrian and personal rapid transit system Lansdown cyclist-friendly city centre through for the city centre. the introduction of access changes East of Bath The implementation of initial (Proposed) on a number of streets and the phases of a new user-focused Keynsham Newbridge expansion and enhancement of pedestrian areas. wayfi nding and public transport information system for the city. Improving nine bus routes to Chippenham Showcase standard, including The implementation of a freight Bristol Bradford-on-Avon raised kerbs for better access, transhipment depot outside the International Trowbridge city to manage deliveries into Airport University off-bus ticketing to speed up Bath Westbury boarding and real-time electronic the centre, thereby reducing Frome information for passengers. the number of delivery vehicles required to enter the city centre. Introducing active traffi c Odd Down management with real-time Trial clean fuel technology for public information to direct drivers to transport. locations where parking spaces The introduction of an electronic/ are available. automatic bike hire system for the city including powered bicycles. An expansion of the City Car Club including the trialling of Greater Bristol Bus Network hybrid vehicles. Bath Rapid Transit Midsomer Norton Other Park and Ride routes Radstock Wells Rail 52 53 left below Second generation projects The Greater Bristol Proposed transport To enable a more radical refashioning of Bus Network in Bath’s connections Bath’s public realm a second generation city centre of movement and access measures are proposed to achieve the long term aspirations of this strategy and to build on the improvements already described above. These measures are recommended to be Bristol included in the next 15 year Local Transport Keynsham Plan to 2026. They include a range of enabling strategies and research projects that will provide the framework to develop major public realm projects. They are based on the emerging Government policy objectives for future Local Transport Plans:

_productivity and competitiveness _climate change _safety, security and health _ quality of life including environment _equality of opportunity

Batheaston Lansdown Bathford M4

Midsomer Norton Radstock East of Bath (proposed) Bristol Keynsham M5

Newbridge Walcot New East of Bath P&R left Bath Rapid Transit route in Bath’s city centre City Centre 4

Bathwick

Oldfield Park Station

University

Newbridge P&R 10

Greater Bristol Bus Network Bath Rapid Transit Other Park and Ride routes Midsomer Norton Radstock Odd Down Potential city centre loop Rail 54 55 Second generation projects

Productivity and competitiveness recommended that this could be By aligning the routing of Equality of opportunity 3. Feasibility and design study preceded by the implementation services and stops, the aim will 1. Feasibility and design study leading to the closure of Pulteney 1. In response to the Government’s be to reinforce a simplifi ed public Bridge to buses and taxis. Transport Innovation Fund (TIF), of a pilot project focussed on to develop a typology/range of improving one key cycle route transport network, aid interchange streetscape measures based This would improve a currently work is underway to assess the between one service and another constrained and dangerous viability and benefi ts of submitting between a local neighbourhood on a hierarchy of streets and and the city centre. and reduce on street clutter of spaces including further pedestrian space and build a major scheme bid for demand furniture and bus stops. better connections to Argyle management in the West of England 4. A similar pilot project could pedestrianisation, shared 4. Investigate the potential of a spaces, widening pavements Street, Great Pulteney Street, sub region, including Bath. also be developed to improve the Holburne Museum and key walking routes between circular transport route around and reducing street clutter. 2. The regional funding allocation the city core. Sydney Gardens. agreed by government currently local neighbourhoods and 2. Feasibility and design study the city centre. 5. Working with partners, to explore the closure of up to three 4. Experimental closure of identifi es a scheme for the A36/A46 Milsom Street to vehicular link road post 2016. Any proposals commission the design of sides of Queen Square. This would a new Bath bus/vehicle of radically change the perception traffi c, initially for one day a for this link would have to take into Safety, security and health week, enhancing the ambience account the impact on the World outstanding contemporary of one of the city’s most beautiful 1. Strategy to develop and design and of appropriate scale and important spaces, bringing it and pedestrian experience of Heritage Site landscape setting and this shopping environment. other environmental impacts. implement proposals to reduce for the centre of a heritage city, back into the daily life of the city A study of HGV movements in air pollution on all of the main that utilises the latest hybrid/ by relieving the almost constant 5. Implementation of safe city Bath is in progress following the routes through the city which are green technologies developed fl ow of traffi c and the impact of centre storage facilities for government’s decision not to now designated as Air Quality through the CIVITAS proposals. on-street parking. More signifi cant shopping, coupled with timed proceed with the A350 Westbury Management Areas (AQMA), 6. Ensure the continued provision changes are dependent upon deliveries to home or Park and Bypass (in Wiltshire) which could as many of them suffer from of a delivery transhipment facility the implementation of strategic Ride sites. pollution levels that are higher measures such as the A36/A46 have provided an alternative route for the city improving the problems 6. Proposed study to improve than legal limits. The designation link road. Such proposals have for HGVs travelling between Bristol/ associated with deliveries in the the provision of facilities for of an AQMA requires the local the potential to create more South Wales and Dorset. city centre. Working with partners the mobility impaired through authority to devise an Action radical opportunities such as to extend the initial pilot proposals the extension of shopmobility 3. Proposed study into the Plan to reduce levels of pollution. the complete removal of through developed through CIVITAS. schemes integrated with relocation of the coach park to The introduction of cleaner traffi c from George Street and arrival points such as car parks, enable the redevelopment of emission vehicles is occurring as 7. Investigate potential Queen Square, a long term bus and train services. Bath Quays North (the area that a result of national or European changes to taxis to lower aspiration of this strategy. includes Avon Street car park legislation and improvements in emissions and the provision and the existing coach stations). engine technology. Further local of cycle carrying facilities. New facilities could be located on transport improvement measures one site or spread through different relating to emissions are also under right Lansdown P&R East of Bath parts of the city. Options include consideration as part of the Air 10 mins P&R a reconfi guration of Charlotte It is proposed that a 10 mins Quality Plan for Bath. The plan is feasibility study be Street Car Park, using a part of being drafted in close collaboration the Cricket Club site or coach undertaken to examine with the EC CIVITAS project and the scope for revising storage at park and ride sites or Bath Transport Package other peripheral areas of the city. the city centre bus route network. The Implement enhancements for drop Bristol off provision for coaches including Quality of life including study will explore the 40 mins increasing number and variety of environment potential to integrate drop-off points over a wider area 1. Ensure any new Parking Strategy an expanded BRT of the centre. for Bath city centre addresses the system including city multitude of issues associated with centre mini interchanges 4. Network Rail intends to that integrate BRT, upgrade signals on the main rail existing demand and with projected growth of residential, retail, hotel Park and Ride and 400m line running through the city to Showcase bus stops, increase rail capacity in 2010. Its and business development within the centre which could increase to potentially form a Route Utilisation Strategy makes public transport loop. University recommendations for other rail demand and displace existing car 5 mins park sites. The Parking Strategy By aligning the routing service improvements within the of services and stops, current infrastructure. would also need to consider the better use of Park and Ride the aim will be to reinforce a simplifi ed Potential facilities, provision of overnight 20mph zone Climate change parking for hotel guests and the public transport network, and aid 1. The potential for 10–20mph zones process for re-provision and London interchange between to make the city centre safer for reallocation of on street car parking 1 hr 45 mins one service and Newbridge P&R pedestrians and cyclists. spaces displaced by projects 10 mins proposed through this strategy. another. The loop 2. Encouragement and expansion could form the of the car club and car share 2. Proposed bus network planning perimeter of a city concept, in particular through and capacity study and research centre 20mph zone. the statutory planning process into increasing the frequency of Speed limits in certain (obligations and consents). the wider bus network, with streets within this 3. The implementation of a local improved vehicles and user- zone could be Bristol and strategic cycle route network focused design quality, such as further restricted 10 mins in and around the city centre, integrating cycle carrying facilities to fi ve or 10mph. connecting neighbourhoods, and and on-street ticketing. developing the potential of cycling 3. Feasibility studies towards Greater Bristol Bus Network as an alternative mode of transport the implementation of a more including promoting the benefi ts of integrated and expanded Bus Bath Rapid Transit cycling as a healthy, convenient and Rapid Transit System including Other Park and Ride routes non-polluting mode of transport city centre mini interchanges Midsomer Norton Odd Down and increased public information on that integrate BRT, Park and Ride Radstock P&R Potential city centre loop practicalities of cycling to continue and Showcase bus stops. 20 mins 20 mins the upward trend in cycle use. It is Rail 56 57 STREETS AND SPACES

Many streets such as Westgate Street and large parts of Stall Street 2: A REFASHIONED are still laid out for vehicular movement rather than refl ecting their dominant use by pedestrians. STREETSCAPE AND Pavements are often too narrow for the numbers of pedestrians using them resulting in people stepping into busy roads to pass others.

Existing street surfaces and narrow pavements restrict the ability of cafés and RIVERSCAPE restaurants to put tables and chairs on pavements, undermining the potential for café culture. Poor quality, uncoordinated and broken concrete paving materials are a common sight throughout much of the city centre.

Pedestrians are encouraged to cross at formal crossing points rather than following natural lines, reinforcing the sense that large parts of the centre are designed for cars and not people.

There is a plethora of uncoordinated signs, posts and bollards in many parts of the city, detracting from the beauty of buildings and from townscape views and occupying valuable pedestrian space.

Street furniture is dated, of poor quality and often poorly maintained. This section focuses on the streets and spaces Pedestrian and vehicular signage and mapping is diffi cult to understand between Bath’s buildings, the river and its surrounding and lacks a coherent and consistent design language. environment and the city’s green spaces, all of which The river is a neglected asset currently providing limited pedestrian need to be connected and refashioned to create access and in parts is an ugly and poorly-maintained environment. a canvas for public life.

Key issues furniture further compound the Sadly, with the exception of the small The 18th century legacy of Bath As outlined in Part 1, Page 22, 18th century experience of a city that now falls a area around Pulteney Bridge and Weir, turning its back on the river continues Bath was a national and international long way short of the design values it currently contributes little to the and even recent developments such exemplar of city design, with its streets and prevalent in its heyday, and of its experience of Bath’s public realm. as the new SouthGate retail scheme spaces laid out to create and encourage current World Heritage Site status. The Georgian city, for reasons and transport interchange, conform social and cultural interaction. Buildings and principally of health and sanitation, to this tradition. The public realm the spaces between were designed as a total Parks and gardens. Interspersed within largely turned its back on the river along the river is often ugly and ensemble, providing ideal pre-conditions the dense network of Bath’s buildings, and this approach continued and was neglected and does little to promote for public life and allowing open or glimpsed streets and spaces are a number of compounded during Bath’s 19th and the attractiveness of Bath as an views of the city’s sublime landscape setting. attractive and important parks and 20th century industrial expansion. international visitor destination and However, the legacy that we have now green open spaces. These ‘green World Heritage Site. Nevertheless, inherited has become degraded. While the lungs’ provide contrast and relief Recurrent fl ooding became an despite these challenges and basic urban structure of much of the city to the harder urban core of the city increasing problem within the city constraints, the River Avon continues is still largely intact, its integrity as a total centre and each green space offers a centre and in the 1960’s and 1970’s a to provide a major amenity to the city, ensemble has been eroded. The qualities different environment and experience range of successful fl ood prevention loved and appreciated by many. of many of the city’s streets and spaces for the user. Some parks such as Royal measures were implemented along now contrast with rather than complement Victoria Park are central to the life of the river. Landscape setting. Bath’s dramatic the qualities of its buildings. The key issues the city centre, hosting major events landscape setting is integral to the relating to Bath’s streets, spaces, parks, while others are much more local in While these measures continue to be beauty of the place and to its identity gardens, riverscape and landscape setting signifi cance or are hidden oases; one effective, it is widely acknowledged as a World Heritage Site. It contains are as follows. such example is Henrietta Park, which, that a number of the features installed, the city, providing a visual reminder while located within a fi ve minute walk such as long stretches of sheet piling of its boundaries and an enticing Streets and spaces. Many of Bath’s of the city centre, is mainly frequented and the sluice gate at Pulteney Weir, connection to the open countryside streets and spaces are currently laid by local residents or those in the know. have been detrimental to the visual beyond. Fingers of green woodland, out for and dominated by vehicular appearance and appeal of the river open farmland or grassland descend traffi c, rather than for social and The River. Although the shape and size within the centre. from the valley sides well into the city, cultural interaction. Tarmac as a of Bath’s city centre is, in part, defi ned contrasting with and softening material tends to defi ne key routes by the meandering course of the River Large parts of the River Avon offer the buildings. and many footways are paved in Avon, its once beautiful river is given good pedestrian access, while in poor quality and poorly maintained little prominence in the current life of other parts access is limited or The city’s 18th century townscape was materials. The proliferation of signage the city. The river should be seen as completely obstructed. consciously designed to sit within and and an uncoordinated range of street one of Bath’s greatest natural assets. respond to this landscape.

58 59 Buildings were often located to frame There are opportunities for new tree right vistas of wooded hillsides and open planting within the proposals to River Avon, Bath fi elds and public spaces to exploit and refurbish the city’s streets and spaces. enjoy the views. Today this relationship However, these need to be carefully between the city and its surrounding measured to ensure that the city’s landscape remains largely intact and townscape characteristics are must continue to be valued as an enhanced rather than eroded. inherent feature of the city and an essential backdrop to its public realm. Interventions within and around the city will need to protect and enhance the outstanding universal values of the World Heritage Site, such as the emerging World Heritage Site setting assessment.

The future of Bath’s surrounding woodland requires better understanding and management, if it is to continue to provide a visual and environmental asset for the city. Much of the existing tree stock is mature and a programme of tree replenishment needs to start now to avoid a decline in the quality of the wooded hillsides in 20–30 years time. There is also a need for tree surveys and an enhanced woodland management regime to maintain and improve the tree cover surrounding the city and to implement a phased tree planting programme in partnership with land owners such as Bath and North East Somerset Council and the National Trust. There are opportunities here to establish a tree fund, to which residents and businesses could contribute, to fi nance such a programme.

As well as playing a signifi cant role in defi ning Bath’s landscape setting, trees also make a major contribution to the character of its streets and spaces, the quality of life of its people and the biodiversity of the city as whole. Trees connect people to nature and offer shelter and comfort. They provide cleaner air at a time of increasing air pollution, as well as shading and cooling. Public realm enhancements will provide opportunities to contribute to the green infrastructure of the city as well as actively reducing fl ood risk.

The arrangement of trees in Bath’s public realm is characterised by single mature specimens as in Abbey Green or Kingsmead Square, or groups of trees in spaces such as in The Circus. Trees in key spaces within the city provide important contrast to the built form as well as visual interest.

60 61 The streets, spaces and riverscape strategy Key spatial sequences Major streets and spaces Cultural West–East sequence Major streets, This strategy recommends a comprehensive Whilst the Bath Pattern Book will be to be improved squares and spaces 5 Bath Western Riverside to refashioning of Bath’s streets, spaces underpinned by a cohesive approach to Retail North–South sequence to be improved Green Park Station (including parks and gardens) and design which seeks to establish a more Major and minor 1 Saville Row and Bartlett Street connecting routes river setting, using high quality natural unifi ed city centre by using natural stone to George Street 6 James Street West to landscaping materials, beautifully designed paving and a contemporary range of bespoke Kingsmead Square to be improved 2 Milsom Street to street furniture, atmospheric lighting and street furniture, it will also acknowledge that Existing routes Old Bond Street 7 Westgate Street to Cheap Street contemporary public art to provide richness different streets and spaces may require and Burton Street and sensory interest and to enhance the different design solutions depending on their 8 Orange Grove and Grand Parade 3 Union Street to Stall Street historic fabric. character, use and function. This approach to Pulteney Bridge It seeks to create an interconnected presents an opportunity to emphasise, 4 SouthGate to 9 network or ‘lattice’ of pedestrian-friendly through subtle streetscape design or public Dorchester Street Laura Place to Sydney Gardens streets and spaces, as outlined in the Plan art, key features of an area to refl ect its in Part 2, Page 40, stimulating and creating particular role within the city centre. This new levels of activity within the public realm is intended to improve its character and and in building frontages. This new structure legibility for the benefi t of users. will reveal and extend the experience of the Some of Bath’s existing spaces form city centre for its users and provide the pre- the major historical set pieces of the city conditions to realise the Big Idea outlined in and combine with streets to form important Part 2, Page 35. spatial sequences. For example Queen The pedestrian-friendly network will Square, Gay Street, The Circus, Brock seamlessly connect a variety of streets and Street and Royal Crescent. In this tradition, public spaces which are capable of hosting the opportunity now exists to create new different types of activity (organised and sequences within the urban structure that informal) at different times. Where vehicular combine new spaces with existing ones that N movement is permitted, new levels of have been reinvigorated or reclaimed through control and management of access are traffi c restraint measures. proposed (including temporary road As a priority, the strategy proposes the 1 closures to facilitate activities within city phased enhancement of the key North–South streets eg. street markets, sports events central shopping spine and associated retail E and festivals), complemented by the new circuits. Over time it is proposed to reinforce transport measures. an East–West axis across the centre, as The production of a Bath Pattern Book, redevelopment opportunities arise and a constantly evolving design resource, is by improving a range of public spaces and recommended to provide clear standards and streets. These improvements will help to 2 specifi cations on the treatment of the city’s connect a series of existing and proposed streets and spaces responding to the design cultural attractions from Bath Western values of the city and its important historic Riverside and Green Park Station, potentially context. It will defi ne the siting, design, via a new ‘living bridge’ (eg. a contemporary 9 materials, quality of workmanship and version of Pulteney Bridge) in the West, quantity of the complete range of elements to the Holburne Museum of Art and Sydney 3 within the public realm. More details on the Gardens to the East. These sequences will 8 proposed Bath Pattern Book are provided in be supplemented by projects to enhance Part 4 The Design Elements, Page 103. associated streets, squares and spaces, 6 eventually building to the completion of the 7 overall plan and a seamless walking network 5 of streets and spaces.

4

S

62 63 Creating the walking network – typologies ROUTE HIERARCHY ROUTE FUNCTION ROUTE FORM of streets and spaces The location, degree of connectivity, physical LEVEL ONE form, size, nature and extent of surrounding The lattice – major routes building uses and the need to accommodate vehicular movement are all key factors that A lattice of North–South and The lattice is composed The form and appearance of will affect how individual streets and spaces East–West routes that form of routes which combine the public realm along lattice can be used for a variety of activities and the major connecting routes the following functional routes will vary in response to events. A clear relationship therefore exists (streets and River Corridor characteristics related to the function attributed to walkways) within the city centre movement and access by sections of individual routes. between the function of streets and spaces pedestrian route network. travel mode. and their design treatment. For example, These streets connect points of spaces which are seen as destination and arrival (interchanges, car parks) event hosting spaces will be designed and all primary destinations and differently from those which are seen as soft visitor attractions. landscaped spaces for passive recreation. Pedestrianised Pedestrianised route sections Typologies of streets and spaces have _Accommodating high levels _Level paving surface been developed (see opposite) as a means of footfall (time sensitive no kerbs (subject to historic to help inform a more detailed consideration vehicular access for deliveries, environment). of the range of planned and informal activity servicing and maintenance). _ Surface treatment – natural that could take place within them. This in stone paving. _New foot bridge crossings turn will infl uence their design treatment. of the Avon River. The typologies are not intended to stifl e new patterns of use within streets and spaces Multi-use restricted local Multi-use restricted local and along the river that may arise over time. vehicular access vehicular access route sections The ability of the public realm to adapt to _10–20mph zones, integrated _Footway and kerbs. cycle lanes where part of _ Maximum footway widths changing circumstances, be it new public strategic cycle route network, (subject to historic transport infrastructure or new development blue badge holder, emergency environment, equalities proposals, is fundamental to its continued vehicle and taxi access. and vehicular access attractiveness and relevance to the local requirements). community, businesses, potential investors _Surface treatments – and visitors. footway natural stone paving, carriageway – i) surface dressed or paved (street An interconnecting walking network interchanges, pedestrian The table (see opposite) sets out a three crossings, on street parking level pedestrian route hierarchy. City streets and loading bays, feature function as spaces for walking and as space spaces); ii) tarmacadam. to accommodate vehicular movement that _Road markings and traffi c signage to be kept to a supports the economic wellbeing of the city. TSRGD minimum. The proposed hierarchy refl ects a rebalancing of movement systems within the city centre Multi-use public transport route Multi-use public transport to favour the pedestrian, cyclists and public and restricted and or managed route and restricted and local vehicular access or managed local vehicular transport, thereby stimulating and creating _ Integrated cycle lanes where access route sections new levels of activity within the public realm part of strategic cycle route (as above). and frontage buildings. Further opportunities network, blue badge holder, to facilitate activities within city streets emergency vehicle and (eg. street markets, road running races taxi access. and rallies) are proposed via temporary Public transport and Public transport and taxi road closures. taxi access access (as above). – Time sensitive vehicular access for servicing, deliveries and maintenance.

64 65 Proposed projects – streets The lattice will be further refi ned and ROUTE HIERARCHY ROUTE FUNCTION ROUTE FORM The enhancement of the major routes as complemented by the connecting routes, outlined in the above typology will create which combine to create a complete LEVEL TWO the basic lattice or skeletal structure of network of pedestrian-friendly streets. Connecting routes key pedestrian routes in the city centre. These connecting routes provide alternative The lattice is supported Cross-connecting routes provide The form and appearance of This lattice will connect the parts of the choices that are intended to encourage by pedestrian routes which alternative and shorter length the public realm along lattice city centre that host the richest variety greater exploration, resulting in the provide cross connections to links to and from the lattice routes will vary in response to of activities. It is intended to strengthen connection and discovery of new parts of the and from it and which link to and cross-connecting routes. the function attributed to existing and new retail and cultural city centre, enriching the experience of Bath. secondary destinations. They exhibit the following sections of individual routes. functional characteristics circuits and encourage a wider dispersal The connecting routes also link related to movement and of pedestrian activity. The lattice will to destinations further afi eld including access by travel mode: also form the main framework for the regeneration areas, and will help to increase implementation of wayfi nding products footfall to lesser known areas and to various and services. attractions dispersed across the city. Multi-use restricted local Multi-use restricted These proposals will clearly have vehicular access. local vehicular access policy and revenue implications in terms _10–20mph zones, integrated route sections. of displaced on street parking. cycle lanes where part of _Footway and kerbs. strategic cycle route network, _ Maximum footway widths blue badge holder, emergency (subject to historic, vehicle and taxi access. environment and vehicular access requirements). _Surface treatments – North–South footway natural stone paving, carriageway – i) surface major streets dressed or paved (street interchanges, pedestrian 1 Walcot Street crossings, on street parking and loading bays, feature 2 Broad Street/ spaces); ii) tarmacadam. Northgate Street _Road markings and traffi c signage to be kept to a 3 Manvers Street 1 TSRGD minimum. 4 Milsom Street to Multi-use public transport route Multi-use public transport SouthGate and restricted and or managed route and restricted and local vehicular access. or managed local vehicular 5 Gay Street access route sections _ Integrated cycle lanes where 6 Barton Street part of strategic cycle route (as above). 5 1 network, blue badge holder, 7 Westgate Buildings 6 emergency vehicle and 2 taxi access. 8 St James Parade 4 Public transport and Public transport and taxi 9 Churchill Bridge taxi access. access (as above). 10 Charles Street 2 _Time sensitive vehicular 3 access for servicing, 5 deliveries and maintenance. 6 East–West 10 4 major streets

1 George Street 8 ROUTE HIERARCHY ROUTE FUNCTION ROUTE FORM 7 2 Wood Street/Quiet 7 9 Street 10 LEVEL THREE Minor connecting routes 3 New Bond Street A number of street blocks Pedestrian-only routes. Pedestrian-only routes. 4 Upper Borough Walls 11 within the city centre are _ Accommodating high to low _ Level paving surface 5 Bridge Street sub-divided by pedestrian-only levels of footfall. no kerbs. 8 3 routes (lanes, arcades, yards _ Restricted footway width 6 Great Pulteney Street 4 passageways and alleyways). in some locations. _Some routes public highway 7 James Street West These fi ne grain routes contrast others rights of way. in length and scale to those of 8 Westgate Street/ _Surface treatment – Cheap Street the lattice and cross-connecting natural stone paving. routes but enable linkages to both. In some cases street block _Limited street 9 York Street 9 furniture and signing routes present high levels of 10 North Parade active frontage. to avoid clutter. 11 Lower Borough Walls/ New Orchard Street/ Henry Street 66 67 East–West major routes

1 Walcot Street 4 Milsom Street to SouthGate 6 Barton Street 1 George Street 6 Great Pulteney Street 9 York Street Links Queen Square to Saw Close. Displace car parking. Repave and widen footways Footway widening to create using natural stone. improved link between central shopping spine and Terrace Walk. Repave carriageway using natural stone setts. Encourage change of use of adjacent uses to food and drink, Promote outdoor seating areas and use of widened footway connected with existing restaurant for seating. and café uses. Replace concrete paving with natural stone. Renewed public realm associated This major sequence of streets Widen footways on the South side Repaving of footways using New traffi c management regime 7 with redevelopment of and spaces plays a crucial role Westgate Buildings and repave using natural stone. natural stone. to facilitate time limited vehicle access to frontage properties Cattlemarket, Hilton and Podium in the economy of the city as its Introduce informal crossing point Resurfacing of carriageway. Links Saw Close, Seven Dials for deliveries. sites improving the linkages central shopping spine. It connects and Kingsmead Square with at junction of Gay Street and See proposals for Pulteney Bridge further up Walcot Street. SouthGate in the South of the city proposed new midi public transport George Street. on page 74. New pedestrian bridge link to to Milsom Street, via Stall Street interchange at St James Rampire. Improve pedestrian links to the and Union Street, to the North. Grove Street and Henrietta Park. Restricted vehicular use to reduce Assembly Rooms and Fashion 10 North Parade Pedestrians dominate this space, Museum via Bartlett Street and yet the existing design and layout pedestrian confl ict at Seven Dials Gay Street. 7 James Street West A key route that connects lacks any coherence or consistency and minimise congestion for public residential areas from the East throughout its length. transport providers. This route forms a critical 2 Broad Street/Northgate Street linkage from the city centre to of the city centre. Widen pavement An enhancement of most Repave footways using particularly on the North side, natural stone. the regeneration areas of Bath of this area is long over due, 2 Wood Street/Quiet Street Western Riverside and Bath Quays. and repave using natural stone. and necessary to provide an Repave carriageway using natural Its enhancement using the same Consider the opportunities to open environment conducive and stone setts if possible. Displace car parking in palette of materials as the rest of up access to Parade Gardens, and appealing to the thousands of Wood Street. the city centre and the introduction improve quality of access to the pedestrians that use this route Footway widening in Wood Street/ of bespoke street furniture would River Corridor. on a daily basis. There is also an Quiet Street to create improved help to integrate the street into economic imperative; its poor 8 St James Parade link with Milsom Street. the fabric of the city. environmental quality has been Encourage change of use of highlighted by the new public Widen and repave footways using 11 Lower Borough Walls realm at SouthGate which could natural stone if possible. adjacent uses to food and drink, potentially impede the natural fl ow and use of widened footway for seating. 8 Westgate Street/Cheap Street Important route that connects Widened footways paved in natural of pedestrians Northwards through central shopping spine to proposed stone to enhance the pedestrian the central shopping spine and new midi public transport experience and reinforce its role affect the city’s reputation as a 9 Churchill Bridge interchange at St James Rampire retail destination. and the Spa complex and via as a retailing circuit that connects 3 New Bond Street to the Podium, Walcot Street and It is proposed that a shared surface A key route that connects New Orchard and Henry Streets Milsom Place and Green Street. be created with widened footways residential areas from the to Manvers Street. South of the city centre. Widen footways and carriageway Traffi c management restrictions to and a carriageway laid in natural resurfacing in New Bond Street Displace car parking. stone setts, extending the paving Enhance quality of the pedestrian close lower half of Broad Street for route with renewed paving and to improve pedestrian link to Natural stone for the footways. large parts of the day. typology as agreed for Southgate The Podium and onwards. Street. For most of the time this where possible tree planting. Natural stone for the carriageway. would be a pedestrian-only space, Improvements to the quality with controlled access for delivery of the pedestrian crossings vehicles within set hours. and underpass. Identify 3 Manvers Street opportunities for enhancing 4 Upper Borough Walls This has the potential to become the relationships of buildings the key East–West route within to adjacent public realm. the city centre strengthening the connection between Parade 5 Gay Street Gardens and Pulteney Weir to the East with Green Park Station and Forms a major connection between The River Corridor to the West. the set pieces of Queen Square and 10 Charles Street Footway widening and repaving The Circus, but is dominated by using natural stone for footways vehicular movement which at times Widen and repave footways and carriageways. Proposed new makes crossing the street very using natural stone if possible. traffi c management regime creates diffi cult for pedestrians particularly Soften hostile nature of street the opportunity for cafés to open at the junction with George Street. with tree planting. onto the street. Potential for Footway improvements using Introduction of informal crossing Repaving of carriageway using light and/or water features along natural stone. points to assist pedestrian natural stone. the route. movement whilst maintaining the Restore original line of building aesthetic quality of the townscape. Reconfi guration of space at the frontages in any future Northern end of Union Street. redevelopment of Police Station Replace concrete paving on site to reinforce street. footways with natural stone. Consider restrictions to vehicular access between corner of George 5 Bridge Street Street and The Circus. Replace concrete paving with natural stone.

68 69 Connecting routes Typology of spaces will also respond to a range of other factors A consistent approach to the treatment of It is proposed that the enhanced pedestrian including the form and use of surrounding all the connecting routes will complement route network outlined previously is buildings, orientation and topography and the approach proposed for the key routes punctuated, connected to and animated will be the subject of public consultation. that form the lattice. This will include the by a variety of high quality public squares The proposed typology will also be phased replacement of concrete paving with and spaces that vary in scale, landscape used to inform the appropriate level of natural stone, the introduction of bespoke treatment and intensity of use. This variety maintenance and management for individual street furniture products, and a de-cluttering will enrich the city’s offer and appeal, catering spaces. It is proposed to stimulate new levels programme to enhance their visual appeal. for the needs of a diverse range of people. of activity and public life by remodelling The principal connecting routes to be The spatial typology set out in the spaces which are currently eroded by the improved are: table below will be used to inform the detrimental and intrusive impacts of traffi c enhancement and remodelling of existing or enhance existing spaces which have North–South connecting routes spaces and the design of new spaces. under-exploited potential for greater levels _Bartlett Street The design treatment of individual spaces of public activity. _Charles Street _Queen Street SPACE TYPE GENERIC FUNCTIONS GENERIC FORM QUALITIES _New streets within SouthGate TYPE ONE _Orientation. Spaces of various scales East–West connecting routes located at interchanges and Arrival and _Journey planning. _Bennett Street _Information provision. major car parks; predominantly departure spaces hard landscaped. _Green Street _Onward transport modes. _Saracen Street _Drop off/pick up. _Trim Street _Good fi rst impression. _Bath Street _Cycle parking. _Beau Street _High levels of informal and _ These spaces represent the _Abbeygate Street TYPE TWO passive recreation and leisure. main public space assets and _New Orchard Street Destination squares _ High levels of organised. outdoor activity hubs of the _New streets within SouthGate and spaces activity linked to formal city centre. _Corn Street events programme. _Major spaces located across _Somerset Street _High quality facilities – the pedestrian route network _Broad Quay children’s play areas, activity including: Squares (hard and areas, toilets, child and carer soft landscaped); Parks and facilities, café (temporary gardens; Recreational spaces; Minor connecting routes kiosks or pavilion). and Riverspace. Minor connecting routes include The _ Electrical power/water points _Signifi cant public art Corridor, Northumberland Passage, Union to support event activity. and water features. Passage, Bridewell Lane, St Michael’s Place, _ Information and _Creative and amenity Hetling Court and Bilbury Lane. They add interpretation provision. lighting provision. an important level of choice for pedestrian _Cycle parking. _High levels of seating. movement throughout the city centre and _ Public transport stop _Shade/weather protection. many require repaving using natural stone to within 200m. enhance their aesthetic qualities and appeal, TYPE THREE _Pause, rest/meeting point. _ Smaller scale, quieter spaces and to seamlessly connect into the lattice of located off the lattice and Intimate spaces _ Public transport stop major routes and connecting streets. within 400m. cross-connecting pedestrian route network or within street blocks. _ A variety of hard and soft landscape. _ Shade/weather protection where context permits. _Good seating provision.

Proposed projects – spaces busy pedestrian central shopping spine. The city’s extensive network of spaces Areas such as Orange Grove, Terrace Walk, should be revealed and articulated as the Saw Close, and Queen Square are just a few public rooms of the city; transforming them of the city’s spaces that could be reclaimed from spaces to places – creating new city and refashioned as places for meeting, destinations. As outlined in the table above, eating, drinking, entertainment, play they will offer a range of experiences and will and performance. be connected to the lattice of streets so that The proposed implementation of the the user can choose or discover the different projects is outlined in more detail in the qualities that each space contains. Some Making it Happen section. This recommends spaces will be hubs of activity offering places the initial implementation of projects that to meet friends or be entertained by street are without critical dependency on transport theatre, others will be quieter, providing infrastructure, and which make the most places to unwind and relax away from the of opportunities currently presented.

70 71 Arrival and Destination squares Intimate Parks, gardens and Arrival and departure spaces Destination squares departure spaces and spaces spaces recreational spaces and spaces 1 Dorchester Street 1 Queen Square 1 Corn Market Square 1 Hedgemead Park

2 Railway Station 2 Laura Place 2 Broad Street Place 2 Walcot Gate Park 1 Dorchester Street 3 High Street 1 Queen Square Forecourt and Vaults Square 3 Pulteney Bridge 3 Rear of Guildhall 3 Henrietta Park 3 High Street 4 Pulteney Weir, 4 Abbey Green 4 Sydney Gardens East Side 4 St James Rampire 5 Burial Ground 5 Recreation Ground 5 Grand Parade 6 Green Park Station 6 Parade Gardens 6 Orange Grove Forecourt 7 Green Park 7 Terrace Walk 8 Norfolk Crescent 8 Manvers Street/ South Parade 9 Royal Victoria Park Creation of an on-street public 9 Southgate Place transport interchange linked to 10 Abbey Churchyard the SouthGate scheme and the and Kingston Parade provision of a new bus station New footways and crossing points 11 Saw Close linking bus stop areas, bus station 12 Kingsmead and SouthGate development Square 13 Green Park Station/ River Corridor 2 Railway Station Forecourt and Vaults Square 14 In front of Creation of an on-street public Proposal to work with owners to St Michael’s Church transport interchange as a key explore the following options: component of the Bath Package. Phased downgrading and closure 2 Remodelling of Guildhall area to to traffi c of two to three sides of 1 create improved and extended the square. Relocation of on street footways and bus stop areas/ car parking spaces. midi interchange. Remodelling of Queen Square to Widened footways at Orange Grove. include pedestrianisation of South New traffi c management regime and East side perimeter roads. to enable time limited access New traffi c management regime to frontage properties including to facilitate time limited vehicle 9 set down and pick up bay to access to frontage properties. service surrounding uses. 4 Potential widening of perimeter 3 and inner footways. Improvements to inner landscaped 1 4 St James Rampire square to facilitate limited event 2 performance use, including potential removal of railings and coordinated lighting. Ultimate objective to radically 2 reduce vehicular through traffi c 1 14 in Queen Square. This is dependent 3 Remodelling of Railway Station on achieving signifi cant reduction 8 of vehicular traffi c in the city or 4 forecourt to provide enhanced setting to the station and improved through a major infrastructure 5 5 access for taxis and drop off and project to provide alternative routes. 3 3 pick up. 11 6 Creation of new pedestrian space Creation of public space and 6 West of the station entrance 2 Laura Place 13 6 on-street midi interchange acting as outdoor waiting room, accommodating the Bath Rapid 12 10 7 connection to Dorchester Street Transit and limited bus services. interchange and gateway to the city centre. Footway improvements in Westgate 4 Buildings and St James Parade to 4 Improvement to access routes. create high quality pedestrian link 7 to Westgate Street/Kingsmead 8 Square/Bath and Dorchester Street 5 public transport interchanges.

9

Reconfi guration of Laura Place to 1 2 create shared space focus including water feature.

72 73 Destination squares Destination squares and spaces continued and spaces

3 Pulteney Bridge 5 Grand Parade 7 Terrace Walk 9 Southgate Place 11 Saw Close 13 Green Park Station/ River Corridor

Pulteney Bridge has the potential Connecting a remodelled Orange Remodelling to create improved Creation of a new space as a Removal of surface car parking, to be traffi c free. For one of the Grove to Pulteney Bridge, Grand setting for surrounding building result of the SouthGate shopping creation of space enclosed A major new destination space city’s most famous landmarks, Parade should be repaved using frontages; extended pedestrian centre scheme. This mostly hard by the Theatre Royal, other and new bridge proposed to this creates the opportunity for natural stone on footways and space linking, restored fountain landscaped and pedestrian-only existing frontage buildings and connect Green Park Station a simple, high quality public carriageways to provide a sublime feature and potential future space is located at the heart of the new development or building (potential future use as a major realm enhancement project that space overlooking Pulteney Bridge, gateway to Parade Gardens and centre on the diagonal pedestrian refurbishment. Signifi cant market and event space) to the is responsive to the architectural the river and the hillsides beyond. or under-croft attractions; route linking the Railway station, potential to promote a dynamic River Corridor as part of proposals signifi cance of the Bridge There are signifi cant opportunities integration of seating; and Dorchester Street interchange daytime and nightime multi-use to redevelop the Eastern end structure and which can provide for outdoor seating associated with redefi ned vehicle access route with the Stall Street, Union Street, space, eg. accommodating of Bath Western Riverside. a transformed environment. adjacent businesses and subject to York Street. Relocation of on Milsom Street retail axis. cultural activity, markets and This could include reconstruction to more detailed traffi c modelling, street car parking spaces and pavement cafés. Predominantly of the Western Pavilion of Pulteney the potential of removing through coach drop off and pick up points. hard landscaped and capable Bridge providing access to the traffi c from this route. Access requirements related to of accommodating limited 14 In front of St Michael’s Church lower level of Grand Parade. hotel to be accommodated. 10 Abbey Churchyard and vehicular traffi c. Extending the city centre from Reconfi guration of Terrace Walk Kingston Parade New traffi c management regime Pulteney Bridge to Argyle Street, to create public space. to facilitate time limited vehicle 6 Orange Grove thereby improving the sequence Removal/rationalisation of access to frontage properties of spatial connections to Great on street car parking and tour including the Theatre Royal Pulteney Street, Henrietta bus stop facilities. and Mineral Hospital. Gardens, The Holburne Museum, Removal/relocation of B&NES and Sydney Gardens. surface car park. Enabling activities from buildings to spill into the street, providing 8 Manvers Street/South Parade animation and variety of interest. 12 Enabling the public to better Kingsmead Square Gateway to Walcot Street. experience the architectural Creation of new destination space splendour of one of the world’s Being adjacent to the Abbey, including installation of public art. few remaining living bridges. the Roman Baths and the Pump Reconfi guration of traffi c Improving the quality of Rooms, these spaces are host to vast numbers of tourists every movements through the area to connections and access to reduce area used by vehicular the East side of the river. year. There is a pressing need to introduce high quality bespoke traffi c and to enhance the street furniture into these areas pedestrian experience. and to remodel the arrangement 4 Pulteney Weir, East Side of street furniture to create more welcoming and relaxing spaces. Management of events and Enhancement of Kingsmead busking in these areas is required Square and Trinity Street to maximise their benefi t. approach including improved Orange Grove, once a fi ne grove traffi c management measures, of trees, has enormous potential facilities to host specialist to be remodelled as a key new markets, and kiosks with landscaped heart of the city, outdoor seating/café culture. connecting the tourism honey Street furniture and pot of the Roman Baths, Pump lighting improvements to Room and the Abbey to Parade Kingsmead Square. Gardens and The River Corridor. Explore the opportunity to create Creation of new public open space New traffi c management regime. This would extend the offer and a new destination space or parade adjacent to Pulteney Weir and experience of the city centre, adjoining South Parade and in front Rationalisation and resurfacing enhancement of promenade to improving connections with the of St John’s Church as part of the of vehicle access route. North Parade Bridge. green spaces and the river; opening proposed redevelopment of parts Removal/rationalisation Opportunity for al fresco up development opportunities of Manvers Street. of car parking. dining linked to surrounding underneath Grand Parade and cafés and restaurants. Footway improvements potentially connecting through to to James Street West. a new Walcot River Corridor path.

74 75 Intimate spaces Parks, gardens and recreational spaces

1 Corn Market Square 3 Rear of the Guildhall 5 Burial Ground 1 Hedgemead Park 3 Henrietta Park In view of the recent development scheme to extend the Holburne Museum, there is a tremendous opportunity for this to complement a revival of Sydney Gardens as a key city destination. A Heritage Lottery Fund bid for the Gardens is currently under development. The combination of a remodelled Holburne Museum and a refreshed Sydney Gardens will create a new Creation of a new space as setting This intimate space is on an Re-landscaping to enhance spatial Provision of improved pedestrian Enhancement of park to refl ect city attraction and opportunities for the refurbished Corn Market alternative route linking Orange qualities and to improve physical access including enhanced destination status in parallel with to encourage a 21st century revival building. This space would provide Grove to Grand Parade. There are linkages to adjoining Arts Centre. gateways, facilities and landscape improved pedestrian and cycle of the pleasure garden concept. a gateway space to Walcot Street opportunities for a repaving of this Introduction of bespoke design measures to improve views connections. Currently this valuable The Public Realm and Movement and enable pedestrian access to area and extension or improved street furniture. into and out of the park. This park is green space is an under-utilised Strategy recognises the importance the River Corridor and a potential connections into the Covered currently under-utilised and largely asset but has the potential to act of connectivity between the city new footbridge link to Henrietta Market and the opening up of unknown to visitors. It enables as a venue for a wide range of centre and Sydney Gardens and Park. The space would also be routes via the little known pedestrian connections to Camden activity including organised events. recommends improvements to enclosed by new building frontage East Gate to The River Corridor, 6 Green Park Station Forecourt Crescent where panoramic views It’s proximity to Great Pulteney Grand Parade, Pulteney Bridge resulting from the redevelopment the vaults underneath Grand of the city can be enjoyed. Street, the Holburne Museum and Great Pulteney Street. of the cattle market site. This space Parade and Bridge Street, and and Sydney Gardens needs to be has the potential to accommodate onto Parade Gardens. exploited more effectively. activity linked to the Walcot Street area including specialist markets, 2 Walcot Gate Park 5 Recreation Ground street performance, and outdoor café and seating. 4 Abbey Green 4 Sydney Gardens

2 Broad Street Place

Repaving using natural stone. Introduce natural stone to pedestrian crossings to enhance gateway to Bath Western Riverside regeneration area. Sydney Gardens, a Grade 2 Listed Enhanced maintenance and 18th century pleasure garden that management of an area with an was created as part of an overall existing high quality public realm. development plan for the Pulteney Introduce traffi c measures to Estate on land East of the River Repaving and landscaping of this exclude non-essential vehicles Avon. Linked to the city centre by hidden space on the route from using this space. the newly constructed Pulteney Broad Street to Walcot Street. Bridge and Great Pulteney Street, Proposals will complement the Sydney Gardens became a social Improved pedestrian connections planned installation of a William hub of city life. It incorporated Pye water sculpture. Re-landscaping of under-utilised and access from The River Corridor a range of attractions including walkway, new foot bridge crossing playing fi eld accessed off Walcot a grotto and swings and was Gate. To include provision of and connections to Laura Place animated by a programme of will help to tackle pedestrian pedestrian link from River Corridor entertainment including musical walkway to Walcot Street retail congestion related to major performances and fi reworks. These sporting events, and support new spine. Although set on a slope, ‘Vauxhall’ style gardens became a this space, with skilful landscape initiatives to broaden the activities favoured place for the fashionable hosted at these venues. design and the provision of people of Bath to promenade and facilities, could provide a setting play. The Bath Guide even claimed for passive recreation and small that ‘this garden, for beauty of scale events. situation and variety of elegant scenes cannot be surpassed by any pleasure ground in the Kingdom’.

76 77 Parks, gardens and recreational spaces Integrating regeneration areas into the spatial structure of the city Major new development sites have been identifi ed across the city centre in recent 6 Parade Gardens 7 Green Park 9 Royal Victoria Park years at the Cattlemarket/Hilton Hotel site, Guildhall and environs, Manvers Street, Bath Quays (North and South of the river), the area West of Kingsmead Square, Green Park House and Kingsmead House and at Bath Western Riverside. In many of these areas, the spatial structure is disconnected from the historic core of the city centre. These areas need to be stitched back into the fabric of the city, with their streets and spaces designed to refl ect the city’s core Enhancement of this major green design values. There is a real risk that if space to improve its role as a location for passive recreation, these regeneration areas are not treated as improved pedestrian and cycle part of or as an extension to the wider city links to The River Corridor walkway. centre, that they will become self-contained Enhancement proposals should quarters, each with its own approach to form part of an integrated urban urban and streetscape design. This will design framework for the ‘North Quays’ area. only undermine the essence of Bath as a total composition, adding further layers of confusion. Proposal to work with all It is recommended, therefore, that the 8 Norfolk Crescent owners of the site to explore network of streets and spaces within these the following options: new development areas should be inspired Remodelling of the gardens to by and respond to the existing pattern and create a 21st century pleasure rhythm of streets and spaces within the city garden. Improvements could include open pedestrian access centre, taking account of distinctive Bath from Terrace Walk, Orange Grove features such as the relationship of building and Grand Parade. Re-landscaping entrances and active edges and the scale, to create improved relationship form and massing of buildings. with the river and River Corridor As an example, the layout of streets walkway, including a potential This is the city’s largest park, and spaces in the Avon Street/Bath Quays new footbridge crossing to the hosting a vast array of both formal Recreation Ground and East bank Provision of improved pedestrian and informal activities, and offering area should be designed to connect to River Corridor walkway; temporary access including linkages to different spaces for different uses. surrounding areas, helping to ensure that and permanent works of public The River Corridor and landscape It has recently benefi ted from the new development is properly integrated art and craft; potential to provide design measures to improve signifi cant investment from the with the historic heart of the city, the new a signifi cant venue for outdoor views into and out of the park. Heritage Lottery Fund. However, SouthGate, The River Corridor and the Green performances and events of a there are further opportunities city scale. to enhance the user experience Park area. The masterplanning of proposals New pedestrian link with Terrace of the park through the extension for new development areas within or adjacent Walk/York Street. of the wayfi nding system and to the centre must therefore be conceived through improvements in the Contemporary and sustainable and designed with the objective to create physical connections to it, for re-landscaping of the gardens strong physical and visual connections with example through the widening to include measures to facilitate of the footway between Queen surrounding parts of the centre, responding and accommodate events/ Square and entrance to Royal and contributing to the overall Public Realm performances; repair and Victoria Park and displacement stabilisation of Western perimeter and Movement Plan. With this approach, of car parking, and restoring boundary elevated roadway; Bath’s public realm represents the glue to Grand Walk to its former glory. coordinated lighting scheme; bind together new and historic parts of the integration of major water feature. city, helping to create one enlarged, coherent New River Corridor parade to link and connected centre. with North River Corridor path. In support of this approach, all sites Link to emerging ideas to redevelop that fall within the proposed boundary of the the undercroft of the former Empire expanded city centre, should utilise the same Hotel, to enhance the Guidhall complex and to reveal medieval natural stone street surfaces, wayfi nding and remains under bridge Street and transport products and new street furniture Slippery Lane. specifi ed for the city centre, again reinforcing Investigate potential of lighting the sense of a larger, more unifi ed centre. North Parade Bridge, reinstating the missing lamp, and re-opening Footnote access to Parade Gardens from It is noted that ambitions for North Parade. certain parks and green spaces may be limited by covenants or other legal restrictions and therefore all proposals are subject to further investigation. 78 79 Integrating the river into Proposed projects – riverscape cyclists and improved connections the spatial structure of the city The re-integration of the riverscape into the and vertical access to existing bridges. The majority of Bath’s key future regeneration spatial structure of the city centre and wider Any new bridge crossings are subject to the sites, including The Podium, the Guildhall, area will help to reinvigorate the role of the Environment Agency’s Flood Defence Consent the Recreation Ground, Manvers Street, river and adjoining buildings and spaces in the process. There will be a need to objectively Bath Quays and Bath Western Riverside, city’s public life. The proposed projects, to be balance this against any possible increase in all share a direct relationship with the river. delivered via future development schemes, fl ood risk posed by any new crossing and/or New fl ood-plain regulations and policies will help to improve access to the riverscape any restriction to navigation, specifi cally often restrict the development potential and pedestrian movement along its entire on the reach downstream of Pulteney Weir. of these sites and add cost and complexity length through the phased improvement of The proposed sitings for new to proposals. However, this should not deter existing paths and the introduction of new pedestrian bridges are not fi xed at this Bath from learning from the world’s best sections to create a continuous River Corridor stage. The case for any additional crossing examples of riverside regeneration and walkway. Access and linkages will further at Norfolk Crescent would need to be using new development to unlock the be improved and a series of walking circuits demonstrated, including consideration enormous potential of its river and canal promoted by the introduction of up to six new of the impact on local residents (Local Plan for the wider benefi t and wellbeing of the river crossings, primarily for pedestrians and policy D2). city and its people. In addition to the potential of future Proposed projects – regeneration sites, there are many other riverscape opportunities for revealing and enjoying the river as a key element of Bath’s public realm: 1 River Corridor North Parade Gardensns 2 INTEGRATING THE RIVER INTO THE SPATIAL STRUCTURE OF THE CITY River Corridor Central 3 River Corridor South Delivery of proposed new pedestrian bridges crossing the river at key nodal points 1 connecting to the network of streets and spaces illustrated in the Public Realm 4 The Quays and Movement Plan – through new development schemes. 5 River Corridor West Creation of a green corridor along the river forming a series of linked River Corridor spaces and providing a variety of active and peaceful areas along the river edge. Destination spaces CCorrnr Henrietta River Corridor walkway MMaarkea ket Park Support the creation of river-related businesses, and creating opportunities SquareSq are for more active uses associated with it, eg. voids underneath Grand Parade. Improved linkages Ensure that any future detailed proposals for the area take account of the Proposed new/ need to submit a supporting Flood Risk Assessment. improved bridges Enhancing walking and cycling circuits along the River Corridor and

connecting to different parts of the city. Pulteteeney Bridgege BeazerBeaz Gardenarde Improving the quality of connections between the Kennet and Avon Canal Norfolk MazeM ze Crescent and the River Avon. Recreation Ground BBath RuRugbyR Implementation of the Walcot River Corridor Path. ClubC ub 5 Orangerang Grorove Paradede Introduction of river-based leisure or public transport. GardensG den 2

More water-based events from the fun (raft races) to the competitive (national sporting events).

4 Cricket Creation of a Festival of Water and Wellbeing that combines the use Green Ground of the river, the Thermae Spa and the Roman Baths. Park

Reinforcing the ecological role of the river as a green corridor, and a sanctuary for wildlife , whilst balancing the aspiration to improve access for the public. Consideration of future potential for river swimming, lidos and urban beaches in Bath, which have recently experienced a revival in a number 3 of European cities.

80 81 Riverscape Composite map of Streets streets and space to be improved Arrival and departure 1 River Corridor North 3 River Corridor South 5 River Corridor West spaces General upgrading improvements Destination squares to existing River Corridor North and spaces bank path including removal/ Intimate spaces cutting back of overgrown areas to reveal views and improve Parks, gardens and community safety, kiosk structures recreational spaces with seating areas and lighting. New River Corridor path created via Bath Western Riverside regeneration project. River Corridor Walkway including Potential new pedestrian bridge boardwalk section linking Pulteney cantilevered from North face of Bridge, via Podium, Cattlemarket railway bridge linking to Railway redevelopment, new public space Station/Manvers Street/ at the Cornmarket up to renewed SouthGate area. public park at Walcot Gate Park. General upgrading improvements Enhanced pedestrian connections to existing River Corridor path from the walkway to Walcot Street including removal/cutting back will form part of a wider supporting of overgrown areas to reveal views package of improvements helping and improve community safety, to boost footfall in the Walcot kiosk structures with seating Street area by the creation of areas and lighting. appealing walking circuits. New River Corridor parade to link with North River Corridor path. New pedestrian bridge link to East 2 River Corridor Central bank River Corridor promenade and Recreation Ground. Potential lighting scheme to associated Brunel structures.

4 The Quays

Parade Gardens River Corridor Promenade to be complemented by an enhanced promenading walkway on the East bank to include street furniture and lighting and seating areas. Rationalisation and enhancement Improved River Corridor of mooring/landing stage, promenade/linear River Corridor landscaped space and Beazer park connecting to Green Park and Garden adjacent to river Broad Quay/Dorchester Street. sluice gate. Enhancements to Green Park. Potential removal or modifi cation of sluice gate mechanism, New pedestrian footbridge link subject to consultation with to South Quays and residential Environment Agency. areas beyond. Improvements to pedestrian access from Argyle Street and North Parade Bridge.

82 83 a key role in communicating these _The system must be future-proofed, values to visitors before they arrive and be easy to manage and maintain. during their stay; and to residents and _Products should make the best and 3: A CITY REVEALED workers as part of their everyday life. most relevant use of technologies. _ The system should share a single Objectives identity that speaks of the values The objectives in developing any information of the city. THROUGH A NEW CITY system should centre on the quality, relevance, _ The visual design and content must accessibility and level of connectivity with celebrate and promote the city – other information systems. its history, heritage and culture. INFORMATION SYSTEM For Bath, the demands on the information system are high. The range of The information system must recognise activities and needs of different people in the needs and limitations of all users, the city are broad. The future vision and of all ages and ability. The development development proposals for the city present of the system will be guided by best a challenge which does not prohibit the practice and be compliant with the development of a system itself, but does Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). increase the pressure for it to function, be able to grow and be sustained. The following objectives must be met to ensure this aspiration is met.

_Information must meet the needs of users. _ Products and services must be A new city information system will be at the heart of designed to be user-friendly, Bath’s regeneration over the coming decade connecting intuitive and accessible to all. destinations, spaces and streets and improving legibility Time Time for people who work in, visit and enjoy the city. user needs rich poor Five user scenarios provide a snapshot Introduction – key issues means by which people can search, of information needs Information plays an essential role in ensuring access and interact with information which help identify the that residents and visitors – whether in has never been more sophisticated. attributes required of a the city on business, for learning or for Increasingly, we demand and expect successful information system for Bath leisure – make the most of their time and information that is tailored to our Who are they? Resident Weekend visitor – Family visit Day visitor – Business visitor have an enjoyable experience of Bath. A city interests and needs and often we heritage trip shopper information system not only helps people to research and want to experience a city What do they Regular trips – Discover historic Relax and enjoy Shop ‘til they Get to a meeting understand, access and enjoy the city, it also even before we have decided to visit. want to do? might want to Bath, relax. the city. drop. on time. plays a vital role in attracting new visitors and explore further. ensuring the journey to and from the city is as Painting a picture of Bath. Many easy and stress-free as possible. Information visitors struggle to fi nd and experience What do they Real-time Itineraries, ideas. Activity ideas for Shopping guide. Fast, effi cient need? transport Interpretation all age groups. Easy/quick transport. is the means by which people can understand the Bath they expected. The area information. of the city’s Best spaces to journey in and ‘Mental map’ and and interact with the physical place. visitors explore is often limited by their What’s on, features. take a break. out of the city. simple routes. The requirement for a world- ‘mental map’ of the city, leaving them news, events. Places to relax. Stress-free Online class information system for Bath is feeling disorientated when straying travel in and out information. unquestionable. There are three essential far from the key retail spines. There of the centre. factors that make a compelling case for is evidence of “I’ve done the Roman Objectives of Immediate Provide guides, Provide tailored Provide detailed Provide up- putting a coherent, high quality information Baths, what else is there?” syndrome, the information access to up- slow-read travel solutions. mapping to show to-date travel system at the heart of the city’s future indicating a gap in how the city, its system to-date travel mapping and Clear indication shopping areas. information. revitalisation. These factors have destinations and spaces are revealed information. information. of distances Interactive tools Simple city emerged through preliminary research and understood. Event related Illustrate the and access. to plan visit. centre print map. and observation. It will be essential to information. whole city and Show facilities Simple travel undertake testing and market research Communicating the city. The quality Extend ‘mental the connections such as toilets, plan from home to evaluate and evolve the proposed and design values underpinning map’ of the city. between things. play areas etc. to Bath and back. strategy, basing it fi rmly on an evidence existing information do not represent Aims/benefi ts Improve day-to- Ensure basic Ensure a stress- Extend usual Help them make base. This research could include visitor or interpret the values and attributes day experience, navigation of the free visit, real ‘mental map’ the best choices. profi ling, pedestrian modelling and demand of Bath as a city. Information is extend activity, city is easy. benefi ts of a of the city. Create a good forecasting for products and services. not consistent or designed as a encourage Create an people-friendly Combine impression, The quantitative and qualitative results will coherent system, leading to a lack walking and excellent fi rst city. information to encourage form a solid base for developing projects. of understanding of the city as a less car use. impression. Encourage a encourage longer longer stay whole. As the physical city undergoes longer stay or stay for other or repeat visit return visit. activities. with friends Meeting user needs. This is an a transformation and creates a or family. information-rich age. It has never been high quality, pedestrian-friendly easier to access information and the environment, information will play 84 85 The strategy: all modes; whole journey; stage of the journey is supported by right all media channels the relevant information and tools whether Pedestrian Information Central to the concept for an information it is pre-arrival, en route to the city, Point, Sheffi eld system for Bath is the need to deliver a on arrival, while you are travelling around, seamless, connected system of products that or at a destination. cross delivery channels and modes of travel. An information system for Bath The concept is illustrated on the following will balance the need to provide a highly pages by an information journey – starting at detailed view of the city to encourage the point of researching at home through to exploration and deliver the level of arriving in and moving around the city. information required, with a structured Using best practice examples from and hierarchical network of travel routes other cities, it shows how a holistic approach that works seamlessly to connect the city’s to information provision is a necessary destinations, areas and spaces. The concept component in making Bath a world class city will direct the development of three principle in which to live, work, visit and play for all levels of delivery: orientation, navigation types of users. and exploring. To ensure users can access what they Through careful planning the aim need in a format and at the location they need will be to minimise the number of products it, the system must respond and be tailored required, so as to reduce clutter within the to a set of requirements that make up any city’s streets and spaces. journey. The concept is to ensure that each

AN INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR BATH

A multi-modal wayfi nding and information system. Not just for pedestrian movement, but all vehicular modes including private car, cycling and public transport: Bath Rapid Transit and Showcase Bus Routes. A multi-channel wayfi nding and information system. Not just signs, but wayfi nding and information services delivered through print, web and other digital and mobile media. A system of products and services that are planned and designed to connect, not just the walking part, but all stages of the journey.

86 87 A system unique to Bath best practice whole journey total composition An information system for Bath will be This indicative journey has The user experience will be Presenting the city centre as a total designed, developed and delivered in a been illustrated with examples dramatically enhanced by taking composition reinforces the sense way that will refl ect, build and support the of information products and a whole journey, coordinated of unity and continuity through services developed in other major approach to services and products. streets and spaces. Ensuring the city’s underlying DNA, physical attributes UK cities. Many of these projects, The user, whether they be a visitor complete landscape is always with and design values. A highly structured, now considered best practice, or resident, will gain a greater you as you move around the city hierarchical system will ensure that the illustrate the application of high- understanding of the city and have centre, reinforces a mental map – minimum amount of physical products quality information planning a more enjoyable experience when connecting destinations and are put into the streets and spaces of the and graphic identity within provided with consistent, high aiding orientation. information systems. quality information at all stages city. With careful information planning and of the journey. product design, the system should limit the amount of street clutter – physical objects whose detrimental effect on the streetscape and movement within it outweighs any benefi ts of the information it carries. There are a number of ways in which the design of the city information system will ensure that values such as lightness of touch are upheld.

How do I get to Bath by car? How big is the city centre? Where are the destinations? Soft over hard products. Particular Can I download a carpark map? What are the must do or must sees? Where are transport interchanges? attention will be given to print and Where are the destinations? What are the must do or must sees? digital products and people services Where are the transport interchanges? What's essential information? What shops are available? What's essential information? How can we find out more? so that street signs are less depended Can I create an itinerary? How can we find out more? on and also provide solutions that How do I get to the park & ride? are more fl exible and cost effective to maintain. 08.00am 10.00am 11.00am

Just where it’s needed. Information INFORMATION FINDING ORIENTATION NAVIGATION products will be carefully located to TYPE PLANNING maximise use and be most effective in providing different information types. PRODUCTS Less is more. Graphic design and AND SERVICES planning of information will ensure that the maximum amount is communicated with the most effi cient use of space. Visual design will be informed by a set of values that refl ect the city around it – symmetry, proportion, balance – to ensure the displays can sit comfortably in the surrounding composition. BATH VISITOR WEBSITE WELCOME POINT WALK MAPS AND GUIDES Form. Products themselves will be bespoke to the information they need DESCRIPTION Bath 24hr card to carry and be constructed from attractions hotels restaurants materials informed by the design thermae spa values of the city and that – together travel with other street furniture – create Base maps Companions a composition. A set of master base maps Information products and will be drawn from which services designed as one individual map products can system work together to The following pages illustrate the potential be cut and rotated for use. aid user wayfinding. scope of the information journey. All the images in this section are selected from best practice to demonstrate, by example, the potential range of information products Consistency of information Free printed maps will be and services that will form Bath’s City Map bases, visual styling On arrival, welcome information available across the city in points will display the whole hotels, destinations, Information System (CIS). A visitor website will provide comprehensive and nomenclature will be introduced to those who composition of the city centre, restaurants, businesses and information about destinations and journey highlighting strategic transport Tourist Information Centres. planning. The site will promote Bath’s assets choose to pre-plan, they will be consistent and compatible connections and principal Easy to carry with you they will as a city. You will be able to customise maps, pedestrian routes connecting present the whole composition guides and itineraries depending on your with the user experience within the city centre. the city’s primary destinations, of the city whilst highlighting key information requirements. If you wish to know its architectural set-pieces and areas, destinations and services. more, themes will be used to communicate public spaces. An index will heritage or leisure activity. Maps can be help you to locate streets and printed and used with on street information. destinations easily.

88 89 walkable city single identity Putting the pedestrian fi rst. A single integrated information Providing tailored views of the city: system will be built that presents a detailed plan to a scale to suit a consistent visual identity of your speed with crossings, steps graphic and information design and entrances marked. Creating elements and product designs that a hierarchy of information that develop the city’s identity and that promotes walking; showing the are inspired by the city itself. places to promenade, areas to stroll, the quick routes, the short The golden section, proportions cuts, the interesting lanes and that are found throughout the city alleys, somewhere to relax and will provide a visual structure for take in the view. information levels.

Where are the shopping highlights? Where are we? How can we get around the city? Can I get across town quickly? Where are the transport interchanges? Where are the Roman Baths? Where can we get to? When and how frequent are the services? What's on the way there? Where are the stops and interchanges? Where am I? Where are the shopping areas?

11.30am 12.00am 1.00pm 2.00pm

LEARNING RE-ORIENTATION JOURNEY PLANNING ON ROUTE EXPLORING DIRECTING ON BOARD

Bath Rapid Transit Route 1

THEMED MAPS INFORMATION SYSTEM TRAVEL INFORMATION POINT SERVICE INFORMATION POINT ON BOARD INFORMATION AND SHELTER

Distance indicator A walk distance will always be displayed clearly to show you the size of the area or city as a Landmarks whole. This allows you to plan Illustrated landmark your journey more accurately Always with you buildings – used across and promotes Bath as a An overview map will be mapping products – will walkable city. highlight the city’s primary located at every information sights and provide useful point and is rotated to match points of orientation. the area map and your A local area map, together viewpoint – helping you with a simple prospect of the orientate yourself within Consistent language and city centre will help you to the wider area. re-orientate yourself and Themed maps and guides will be available Located at key points of decision information planning ensure that bus information is locate nearby services when in multiple languages and versions, tailored making, panels will provide alighting from a bus service. to your interests. Guides will be available detailed area mapping to help you seamless with pedestrian across the city in hotels, destinations, find your destination and show information, encouraging restaurants, businesses and Tourist you the way to get there. A simple use of public transport and Onward journey information Information Centres. Easy to carry with prospect of the city centre will making the interchange Integrated transport you they will uncover information relevant build a mental map of the city and between modes and the information enables you to onward journey on foot as to your chosen theme or themes. assure you of where you are in switch between modes of A simple diagrammatic map will easy as possible. relation to the wider area and transport with ease, allowing remain with you so that you can principal transport interchanges. you to explore the city and understand your route and plan plan your onward journey. your onward journey.

90 91 networked intuitive future proofed The system will be designed to Products and services will be The information system will be work at the level of the complete designed to comply with legibility developed in a way to ensure it city centre as well as linking guidelines and allow for instant can be kept up to date, managed inwardly and outwardly to interpretation. Through the use of and maintained by the project neighbouring communities, city ‘heads-up’ mapping – orientated to partners within the structure of wide destinations and the region. match the view in front of the user – the proposed Bath Pattern Book. and ‘walk distance’ measurements, all information will be integrated and easily understood.

Where are we? Where are we? When is the next train home? What can we see? What's significant about this place? Where is good to eat? What's significant? Where am I? Where are the shops I want? How far? 3.30pm 4.30pm 5.00pm

ENJOYING GUIDING FINDING UNDERSTANDING FINDING JOURNEY PLANNING

INTERPRETATION DIRECTORY PANEL HAND HELD INFORMATION SERVICES VISTA POINT

Mobile technology A multi-channel information system allows you to make the most of all technology Themed information available. This approach allows Specific information is for maximum compatibility A vista point displays disclosed based on theme a complete landscape between on street and digital adding context and interest information provision. elevation of a vista or to the streets and spaces. complete prospect of A directory for finding is a city view. Relevant available when in an area themed information will of shopping, activity or be available for those major significance. who wish to enjoy and learn more about the city.

Directories Hand held mobile devices and Interpretation & public art Helping you to locate mobile applications can Interpretive information will Located at key points of interest or attractions and be utilised to complement your play an important role in activity providing detailed information destinations quickly and journey within the city. You will representing and understanding about the immediate area. A simple easily. Information may be able to use hand held the historical city of Bath. prospect of the city centre will be be listed alphabetically technology to plan your onward Subtle features work alongside accompanied by a directory of stores with a map reference. journey or use GPS technology map-based information to in a shopping area and an explanation for navigation. Devices may also enhance user experience. of significant places or spaces within be used to receive on street a place of interest. interpretive information, triggered by a area of interest.

92 93 Building on the city’s visual legacy design principles, such as heads-up mapping right The extensive body of work showing and appropriate scale – the system will A New and Correct prospects of the city by fi gures such as provide the user with the relevant tools to Plan of the City of Bath – Samuel and Nathanial Buck and illustrations suit their wayfi nding needs. detail 1817 of spaces such as Queen Square by Thomas Malton the Younger has provided the city of Creating the design resources for the city Bath with a rich and visually powerful legacy Cartography and mapping will become of mapping and illustration. an important tool for delivering projects By learning and being informed by and will form a large part of a set of a this source of historic design work, the city resources that will be created for the city. can benefi t not only in terms of ensuring the Typography, pictograms, colour references, quality and artistry of design and illustration copy, materials and techniques will all be is upheld, but also through ensuring that developed to enable the roll out of city the cartographic and design approach is information projects. These resources grounded in something very personal and will be collated and managed as part unique to the city. of the proposed Bath Pattern Book. The diagram below illustrates how the three views of illustrating the city historically – prospect, plan and elevation – can be exploited to meet the needs of users at different points in their journey. This tailoring of the way the city is portrayed builds on the legacy of city mapping and – by implementing

View Prospect View Orientation

Low oblique Arrival planning City overview Mental map Whole Transport composition network mapping

Plan View Navigation

Aerial Finding View Direction

Elevation View Exploring

Panoramic Interpretation Vista Guide/fi nding

View

94 95 Proposed key projects Bath city centre Pedestrian Footfall Counts, May 2006 Bath visitor web site Digital information services Shopping directories left Develop and extend the existing Develop a digital information Develop a range of information 60 city centre count Visit Bath website that manages strategy for the provision of directories to provide visitors with points that cover the a visitors ‘fi rst point of touch’ information services to static detailed information about their retail area. experience of Bath and/or create digital information points and immediate area. a new website to provide dynamic hand held mobile devices. Shopping directories to allow right information content that is Develop contextualised mapping shoppers to fi nd specifi c Density of tailored to user requirements information for interactive online destinations quickly or to pedestrian fl ow. and an enhanced experience in and on-street digital use. identify the full extent of Red = terms of guiding, journey planning, retail options available. attraction and destination fi nding. Review and audit technology to High pedestrian fl ow The website will: adopt a future proof approach Food and drink directories. >40,000 to providing, managing and Introduce Bath’s unique visual Information directories at key Orange = maintaining visitor information destinations and attractions. identity to the visitor at the start that can be accessed by hand Medium pedestrian fl ow of their journey experience – held mobile technology. 20,000 to 40,000 planning their journey on the Interpretation points world wide web. Yellow = Arrival points Develop a range of interpretation Low pedestrian fl ow Provide a geographic overview of products such as historical < 20,000 the city to reveal Bath’s unique Develop information signs at key plaques, interpretation signs, setting, walkable scale and main points of arrival including Bath city vista displays and public All fi gures are based on visitor attractions. Spa station, Park and Ride sites, art interpretation, to provide average weekly footfall. Provide visitor itinerary planning bus station, coach parks, primary information about Bath to tools – to reveal Bath’s wider city car parks and Bristol International enhance a visitors experience offer and encourage longer stays. Airport to provide welcoming visitor through engaging, revealing, information and point of orientation Interactive mapping suite to understanding, discovering Proposed pedestrian for navigation and onward journey and learning. Interpretation route hierarchy create your own unique themed planning. Information to include: maps and guides of the city. products will include: Welcome to Bath, Primary routes Introduce Bath’s exemplary Detailed guides, indexes or World Heritage Site. interpretation will be provided pedestrian environment, car free Secondary routes central area and encourage visitors An overview or prospect map annotating an elevation of the view. to use public transport and Park to allow users to view the Information will help users explore Tertiary routes & Ride to travel to and around whole composition of the city. the area in greater detail. the city. Users will be able to understand Historical interpretation. Arrival points its distance, structure and physical relationship of destinations. Reveal further points of interest P e d e s t r i a n s i g n s Walk map In a simplifi ed form, this in Bath. Develop a free printed visitor composition will be a consistent Restore incised lettering Directories map for pedestrians which can element that remains with you of street names. as you move around the city. Interpretation be distributed through main Links to further information. points points of arrival, transport Instructions on how to get interchanges, tourist information around the city. The plan that follows illustrates centres, attractions, destinations, Onward journey planning how, through research of accommodation providers, information. pedestrian fl ow counts in the city universities and other third parties. centre, the routes and spaces of Content to include: Primary visitor information including primary attractions Bath can be assessed to form a Visitor information. and destinations and pedestrian route hierarchy. Attractions and destinations. interpretation, pedestrian routes This process relies on close Interpretation. and transport connections. assessment of current and future Content indices. development sites in the city Pedestrian routes. to ensure these are connected Transport connections. into the network. The primary Content indices. Pedestrian signs pedestrian routes and secondary Develop pedestrian information connecting routes link arrival signs to be located at key decision points and destinations in the Themed maps/guides making points in the city centre. city, guiding the location and Develop a range of themed maps Information will include: orientation of the four basic types of information products. and guides to connect attractions, A street level of mapping, in a destinations and points of interest. heads up format, that will enable To be provided in people to navigate their next step The indicative location of multilingual versions. through the city and fi nd nearest products form a core network destinations or facilities. which will, in time, be extended Themes could include: heritage into new development areas and culture, shopping, Bath after A map of the extended city centre such as Bath Quays. 5pm, city centre walks and parks for orientation within the wider and gardens. context of the city. Available in printed format from Primary visitor information main points of arrival, transport including primary attractions interchanges, tourist information and destinations and centres, attractions, destinations, interpretation, pedestrian routes accommodation providers and and transport connections. other third parties. Content indices.

96 97 in urban living, cultural expression, economic and to venture on foot, by bicycle and public success, environmental sustainability and transport to the attractions and countryside health and wellbeing. beyond the city. The development of Bath as 4: A CANVAS FOR New or re-conceived concepts of fun, a walkable city could also be directly linked entertainment and play for people of all ages to the NHS Bath and North East Somerset’s could be reintroduced within the parks and public health programme, particularly the gardens of the city, providing a 21st century objective to tackle obesity through active PUBLIC LIFE reinterpretation of the pleasure garden. movement and leisure and to the Council’s This might include outdoor fi lm screenings, low carbon agenda. plays and performances, eating and drinking The cultural study produced for and fi reworks in the summer months and the Council by Arts Business Limited, illuminations and ice-skating in the winter. the Destination Management Plan by the Public spaces within the centre Tourism Company, the Retail Strategy by could be utilised for a regular and changing Urban Practitioners, the emerging Bath programme of temporary events – including and North East Somerset Cultural Strategy radical and contemporary public art and the recent Council strategies for sports installations by international and local facilities, green spaces and play should all artists, street theatre, dance and musical be integrated into an exciting and radical performances, lighting events, cultural, long-term programme of cultural and heritage and community festivals and community activity, much of which could be activities, food festivals, pageants and Mardi played out within the streets and spaces of Gras, street markets, organised and informal Bath city centre. play activities for children and adults, sport, As with the proposals for the physical health and wellbeing events, and, in warmer transformation of the public realm, the weather conditions, outdoor relaxation and opportunity to re-animate and revitalise the A city reanimated future potential of the city, an overarching movement classes. centre of the city will need to be a long-term, The big idea to rebalance and refashion sense of Bath city centre as a place is The River Corridor and canal could incremental process. It will require a clear Bath’s public realm and movement systems required, where seemingly disparate or be animated by art fairs and stalls, boat strategy and a planned programme of public in order to create a canvas for public life fragmented interests, services and agendas, festivals and racing, cycling events, canoeing and private sector funding and investment. and wellbeing is given form and direction in ways of thinking, knowledge and skill bases and punting and, should water quality allow, However, properly executed, it has the the Public Realm and Movement Plan. It is can be aligned and melded into a whole, like river bathing. potential to establish Bath as one of the most given further depth and structure through the composition of a great piece of music. A new guide to Bath walks could be attractive and desirable cities in the world. the understanding and integration of the The responsibility for and the creative promoted to encourage locals and visitors layers of the Composing Elements and its direction of this task – the question of who to explore and discover new parts of the city character and design quality will be shaped should be the conductor of the orchestra – and controlled through the Design Elements demands active consideration and resolution. within the emerging Bath Pattern Book. With regard to the management of the city THE PUBLIC REALM AND MOVEMENT STRATEGY SEEKS TO DELIVER THE FOLLOWING However, in addition to the centre, it is encouraging that Future Bath availability of funding and investment, Plus has recently been established. This A more attractive, distinctive, accessible, walkable and user-friendly city centre. the realisation, delivery and success of public and private sector entity has brought the Canvas for Public Life ultimately depends together the management of the city centre Increased levels of pedestrian and cycling activity across all age ranges covering on strong creative leadership, coordinated (including the appointment of a City Centre a wider area of the centre. and effective management and maintenance Manager) with that of Bath Tourism Plus and and, not least, on the development of a with the involvement of the cultural sector. Increased levels of economic activity across a wider area of the centre. bold, imaginative and exciting programme Hopefully this signals the beginning of a more of cultural and community animation to integrated and coherent future for the city A more extensive programme of cultural and community events and activities reinvigorate the vibrancy, image and centre. It is hoped that the Public Realm and attracting attendance from local people and visitors and creating a greater appeal of Bath as a city. Movement Strategy will guide and inform sense of social interaction and wellbeing. Once again, this suggests a return to the agenda and work plan for Future Bath the spirit of the 18th century when elements Plus. It is also encouraging that the Council Improved access for people with disabilities and mobility impairments. such as outstanding design, cutting edge has been restructured to bring most of the culture and pleasure, health and wellbeing relevant services involved in the management Improved access and activities for children and young people. and entrepreneurial activity were creatively of the public realm into one area. A number balanced and orchestrated in order to of the proposals contained within the Public More satisfi ed residents and local businesses and longer staying visitors re-imagine and re-position Bath as one of Realm and Movement Strategy offer a real and increased visitor spend. Europe’s fi nest cities. Approaching the art opportunity for the Council to pioneer new of city-making in Bath from a 21st century management practices in a project context. Improved perceptions of Bath. perspective requires similar levels of ambition, creativity and persistence. It also The renaissance of Bath’s public realm Enhanced identity and reputation for Bath as a World Heritage Site demands the ability to think differently, The proposed delivery of the Public Realm and world class city. in a more rounded way, in order to see the and Movement Strategy in the centre of connections between things. Bath over the next 10 to 20 years unlocks An enhanced evening and night-time economy. huge opportunities for the city. Handled An orchestra without a conductor – with imagination and fl air and with a sense A safer city centre environment. overcoming fragmented thinking of Bath’s distinctiveness, originality and In order to understand and harness the authenticity, this could result in a renaissance 98 99 London 2012 provides a major milestone for and animated centre can attract more people right the completion of the fi rst phases of the of all ages during the evening and at night, Examples of activities, physical transformation of the public realm deterring or diluting anti-social behaviour events and animation and to stage an exciting range of cultural and and reducing fear of crime. of public spaces social events and activities. While levels of crime and anti-social However, not all of the opportunities to behaviour within Bath and the rest of the reanimate the city centre require the physical district are relatively low, parts of the city proposals for a refashioned public realm to be centre suffer from alcohol-related anti- in place. Much could be achieved in the short- social behaviour at night. This can create term using existing spaces as well as through a perception of danger which in turn deters temporary road closures, enabling local people some people from visiting after dark. and visitors to begin to experience the benefi ts The Council and its partners are of an active public life and to build towards the actively seeking to build a stronger evening cultural programme for 2012 and beyond. economy and to reduce anti-social behaviour. A recent success includes the achievement Evening and night-time economy of Purple Flag status for the city centre. Well designed streets and public spaces This work will continue through council can provide a canvas for public life at all services responsible for the public realm times of the day, including during the and a range of external partners including evening and at night. Avon and Somerset Police, Future Bath Plus, Bath does not benefi t from a the business and retail communities and successful evening and night-time economy local residents’ associations working and many perceive the city to go to sleep closely together. when its shops close at around 5.30pm. Other cities in Europe and beyond have demonstrated that an attractive, accessible

left Rynek Glowny Grand Square, Krakow

100 101 PART 4: THE DESIGN ELEMENTS

THE DESIGN ELEMENTS

102 103 KEY PHASES OF DEVELOPMENT THE DESIGN Audit of existing research available as relevant to each design element. Commission new research as appropriate to develop knowledge base ELEMENTS for design decisions on individual elements. Analysis of research, and scenario/options testing.

Development of concept design, including user testing and consultation.

Detailed design development, including appraisal of fi nancial implications and sustainability impact.

Consultation, endorsement and inclusion into the Bath Pattern Book.

Training, to ensure proper implementation of the design elements.

Review.

On-going management, maintenance and quality control, necessitating appropriate governance arrangements in the responsible organisations.

Details for other design elements to be Although treatment of the streetscape will be A Bath Pattern Book will set the future design included in the Bath Pattern Book will be tightly controlled, in certain spaces it may be standards for the city, seeking to capture its DNA produced during the fi rst phase of the possible to take a more relaxed approach to implementation of the strategy and include paving pattern. This will need to be resolved as a place and ensuring that all interventions in the following. at the detailed design stage. the public realm embody the city’s core design values. Existing historic paving and materials 1. Hard landscape elements – are essential characteristics of the city and paving and street treatment will generally be retained. There will also be Introduction Design strategy Original Bath pavements and streets are guidance and specifi cations for the care and The previous sections have presented the The specifi cation of each design element characteristically paved with pennant, maintenance of areas with historic paving, key proposals to transform the public realm requires a rigorous approach to ensure that and laid with subtlety and attention to including which mortars should be used in Bath and create the broad canvas for they are of the highest quality, and respond detail; they are understated, recessive and and how they should be applied. Training is public life. appropriately to the city’s design values. form part of the city’s unique composition. essential to ensure those undertaking work This section focuses on the design This will include an assessment We must retain this fl oorscape character, are suitably skilled. elements that will be applied to this canvas, of whole life costs, the consideration of with paving fl ags on the pavements and As the implementation of this strategy such as hard and soft landscaping, street the sustainability impact of design and setts in the carriageway, in order to will take time to realise, there are likely to furniture, lighting, services and facilities, materials, and ongoing management and reinforce this special Bath look. be elements within the Plan that will need to wayfi nding products and public art. maintenance expenditure. Over recent decades this design be modifi ed as part of routine maintenance These elements meet the basic functional There must be full stakeholder tradition has been overlooked with the work and before natural materials can be needs of the city but they should also engagement in the selection of design result that surfacing in many streets and afforded. Whilst this will be minimised, reinforce Bath’s design values, providing options and materials. spaces has been undertaken with poor with maintenance and budgetary provision richness, detail and sensory delight to Each design element will be subject regard to design principles, and using coordinated, there will be circumstances the public realm and strengthening Bath’s to a thorough process of development inappropriate materials such as concrete where tarmac and concrete paving materials distinctiveness as a city. tailored to suit particular demands. paving slabs and tarmac. will continue to be used. In the case of The Bath Pattern Book will propose existing or new tarmac surfaces in the Design philosophy the use of natural stone to ensure carriageway, the Bath Pattern Book will seek The emphasis should be about supporting consistency throughout the whole of the to ensure that road markings (including yellow ‘Bathness’, and will cover functional values city centre. It will be laid in accordance lines) are kept to an absolute minimum to (meeting basic needs), inspirational values with a limited range of paving patterns. reduce visual clutter. (does it look like Bath?) and emotional This will apply to both pavements and the qualities and attributes (does it feel like carriageway, and will help to reinforce the 2. Soft landscape elements – Bath?). These values will provide a marker local distinctiveness of Bath and protect trees and woodlands to test each intervention, to gauge quality its authenticity as a World Heritage Site. As well as playing a signifi cant role in defi ning and to ensure that the sense of ‘Bathness’ The Bath Pattern Book will Bath’s landscape setting, trees also make is prevalent throughout the design process. specify the treatment for each street a major contribution to the character of its It is also critical that there are tight and space within the city centre, and streets and spaces, to the quality of life of controls on the number and location of new provide specifi cations for construction, its people and to the biodiversity of the city street furniture, wayfi nding and public art laying and pointing. This will consider as whole. Trees connect people to nature products, adhering to the values of ‘less is opportunities to increase water and offer shelter and comfort. They provide more’ and ‘lightness of touch’. absorption rates in the context of cleaner air at a time of increasing air pollution climate change and increased rainfall. as well as shading and cooling.

104 105 The arrangement of trees in Bath’s public _fi t for purpose However there is huge potential to achieve The identity for the new graphic and realm is characterised by single mature _ durable a more sensitive and holistic lighting information design language will be specimens as in Abbey Green or Kingsmead _fi nely detailed approach if the city were to commission a guided by the following values: Square, or groups of trees in spaces such _refi ned comprehensive lighting strategy. This would as in The Circus. Trees in key spaces within _ elegant provide an overall framework and set the tone Information concept the city provide important contrast to the for the lighting of streets and spaces and _legible architecture of Bath. Views through streets This would add another element to reinforce specifi c buildings. _ intuitive to larger spaces containing trees are Bath’s unique look, avoiding the mixed It is suggested that the Lighting _ reductive/gradual disclosure generally best left open as they help to messages of different street furniture Strategy will need to involve leading _managed complexity reinforce the destination nature of these and signage. professional lighting designers and engineers _ intelligent spaces. The view to Kingsmead Square A concept design for a wide range of to ensure subtle, high quality solutions which from its adjoining streets, for example, new street furniture products is currently limit light pollution, energy consumption and Graphic concept illustrates this point. under development. If approved, its delivery the impact of light on wildlife (eg. bats). _ formal/mature/confi dent There are opportunities for new tree can be phased over time, enabled by new This is yet another opportunity to contribute _visually rich planting within the proposals. Conversely, development, funding or investment. to the beauty and inherent design quality of _ picturesque tree planting in certain streets and spaces It is intended that products will include: the city, and to ensure that the treatment of _graceful might be inappropriate, where for example lighting adds to the unique composition of _ engaging tree planting could be said to be working _bins, bollards, lighting, seating, the place. _ sensual against the architectural purity of the cycle racks etc Pilot projects could demonstrate the ensemble. The merits, in each case, need _ a pedestrian wayfi nding system positive effect that an innovative lighting The successful integration of a new graphic to be carefully assessed to ensure that the _public transport products including installation can achieve. Bath Street is a and information design language for Bath will city’s characteristics are enhanced. shelters and bus fl ags good example of an important street that require the production of detailed brand and It is recommended that a Tree and would benefi t from such a proposal creating identity guidelines, as well as tailored brand Woodland Strategy be undertaken for the These products will have a clear graphic and an ambience that contrasts with the main management to achieve maximum impact management of the city’s tree and woodland information design contained within them, pedestrian retail spine and that connects and continuity throughout the city. stock. This should consider the issues of providing a complete city wide system, easily with the cultural, health and wellbeing the woodlands surrounding the city, as understood by its users and providing the epicentre of the Roman Baths and Thermae 7. Public ar t well as identifying actions for existing trees necessary infrastructure for the city to lay Bath Spa. The cultural development study carried out and opportunities for new tree planting. claim to its aspiration to become the UK’s for the Council by Arts Business Limited There are also signifi cant opportunities to pre-eminent walkable city. Opportunities 5. Services and facilities (‘Reinventing Bath: a call to leadership and slow precipitation runoff, provide shading and to innovate with new products, for example The public life envisaged and promoted by strategic planning to deliver a resort of the ameliorate air quality; in order to reduce the exploring underground waste storage and the Public Realm and Movement Strategy will future’) recommends that the city should impacts which give rise to climate change. enhanced recycling facilities, should also draw more people to enjoy the city centre, produce a Public Art Strategy for Bath as be actively explored. increasing footfall and social and economic a priority action. 3. Street furniture elements vitality. This increased activity will be The promotion and implementation of a The city currently hosts a vast range of 4. Lighting elements supported by the city’s public spaces, parks contemporary arts programme would appeal different products, such as bins, benches, Lighting has many important roles to play in and riverside as well as the city’s shops, to new and younger audiences, helping to street lights, traffi c signs and poles. Each is the presentation and enhancement of the city cafés, restaurants and cultural offerings. refresh the image and reputation of Bath as a installed to perform a specifi c task, but there centre. It can play a crucial role in creating a Facilities, such as public conveniences, dynamic and culturally progressive city and to is very little design consideration over their night time environment and economy for the are also an important part of supporting attract new residents, visitors and innovative collective impact. centre, creating an ambience for pedestrians activity in Bath and making it an appealing and creative businesses. Whilst some historic street furniture that is safe, comfortable and convivial, destination for visitors. products, including post boxes and the as well as exciting and alluring. It can: An increase in public life could K6 telephone kiosk contribute to the highlight the current shortage of accessible attractiveness of the public realm, the _highlight key buildings, streets and public conveniences in the city centre. Bath majority of products have been selected spaces and landscape features and North East Somerset Council is currently on utilitarian grounds with little thought to _identify walking routes throughout developing a strategy for public conveniences their contribution to Bath’s streetscene. the city helping with the orientation in consultation with local communities. The result is a cluttered environment of poor and navigation of the user and linking The fi nal strategy will deliver a plan quality products that detracts from the city’s different parts of the city to match the demand for publicly accessible beauty and often interrupts important views. _be used to respond to events in the toilets in Bath and the district. Its approval This environment is further eroded by the life of the city or particular times will allow early integration with the Local proliferation of on-street ‘A’ Boards and there of the year. A sophisticated lighting Development Framework and the Public is a need for the Council to produce clear system could be adjusted in intensity Realm and Movement Strategy. guidance on the future management of in particular areas for specifi c events these boards within the streetscape. or to highlight particular processional 6. Information and graphic design elements To achieve a range of products that routes. At Christmas, a special lighting The development of a graphic and properly responds to the city’s design values, set could be used to create a magical information design language for the city it is recommended that the city should effect, transforming the city centre is integral to a new and comprehensive commission its own bespoke suite and reinventing the concept of wayfi nding system for Bath. It will transform of street furniture for Bath’s city centre. Christmas lights the user experience of the city by seamlessly These products will be guided by a series connecting arrival points (Park and Ride sites, of design values that stem from the ‘public Some key buildings in the city centre and the bus and train stations, and car parks) realm values and attributes’ shown on Page in the surrounding hillsides are already lit, with pedestrian movement (including 33. The values dictate that the concept for notably the Abbey, Prior Park, Pulteney Bridge websites, maps, interpretation material the products must be: and the Holburne Museum of Art. and directional signage). 106 107 The range of design elements The DNA of Bath

It is strongly recommended that a Bath Hard landscaping elements Soft landscaping elements Street furniture elements Pattern Book for the Public Realm is produced to guide and manage these design – Predominately large element pennant paving for footways – Tree planting. – Amenity products – bins, water and drinking fountains, seating. and small element setts for carriageways laid in accordance – Structure/architectural planting. – Information and wayfinding products – signs, displays, plaques. elements. This will set the future design with a limited range of paving patterns. – Seasonal planting. – Transportation and highways – bus shelters, bus flags, cycle parking. standards for the city, seeking to capture – Very limited use of composite/concrete paving materials. – Topiary. – Safety and security – bollards, vehicle control gates. – Paving typically laid in random width rows using slabs – Services and utilities – kiosks, utility box covers. its DNA as a place and ensuring that all of different lengths. interventions in the public realm embody – Natural stone tactile paving to aid the blind and partially sighted. the city’s core design values. It will extend, refi ne and refresh the Council’s adopted Streetscape Manual as it applies to Bath.

INFORMATION PAVING ELEMENTS STREET TREES BOLLARD BENCH BUS SHELTER

108 109 The Bath Pattern Book for the Public Realm will contain design guidelines, specifi cations, information planning rules, material specifi cations, and maintenance and management requirements for the whole range of design elements applied to the public realm. In addition to the recommended projects, and in response to political will and available resources, other projects that have been outlined in Part 3, Page 45 of the strategy could be implemented at an earlier stage. By necessity any projects selected will need to have acceptable transportation impacts. This strategy recommends the completion of related strategies, plans and design guidelines that will enable the successful implementation of future projects and inform the treatment of the city’s public realm. This phase of preparatory work is essential to ensure that the quality of public realm interventions is appropriate to the Lighting elements Public art Graphic elements quality of the city. – Highways lighting. – Feature lighting. – Permanent public art. – Pictogram set. – Ordnance Survey and royalty free cartography. The Bath Public Realm Pattern Book – Pedestrian amenity lighting. – Product lighting. – Temporary public art. – 3D illustration. – Aerial photography. will become a key city management – Route lighting. – Temporary event lighting. – Performance art. – Bath font. – Diagrammatic maps. – Landmark building lighting. – Interpretation. – Photography. – Schematic maps. tool, informing and controlling the design – Water and water features – Colour set. – Geographic maps. quality of proposed projects contained used whenever possible – Mental maps. within this strategy. as a cross cutting theme.

LIGHTING ROUTE MARKER EVENTS PROMOTION PUBLIC ART DRINKING FOUNTAIN TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE LITTER/RECYCLING BINS CYCLE PARKING

VISION AND STRATEGIES

THE PATTERN BOOK

RESOURCES GUIDELINES

110 111 PART 5: REALISING THE STRATEGY

MAKING IT HAPPEN A FRAMEWORK FOR DELIVERY

PROJECT DELIVERY STRATEGY AND DESIGN DEVELOPMENT QUICK WINS PROPOSED MAJOR PROJECTS – PHASE ONE (2008–2013)

112 113 environmental, economic and social Funding benefi ts that it represents for Bath It is proposed that the strategy will and the wider area. The realisation of be realised through a range of funding MAKING IT HAPPEN the strategy requires effective cross- sources including: service working, cross party political support and long-term buy-in from _fi nancial contributions arising from PUBLIC REALM the wider community if it is to be new developments successfully delivered. _ landowner investment/contributions _CIVITAS, Bath Package and future Timescale for delivery transport bids AND MOVEMENT It is proposed that the strategy will be _ Other funding bids such as Growth delivered through the phased Public Realm Points Funding and Movement Programme on an incremental _ potential schemes such as Business PROGRAMME basis over a 10 to 20 year period (or longer Improvement Districts (BIDs) if required). Each phase will contribute to _access to capital resources as detailed the gradual transformation of the city’s within the Councils property review public realm and be underpinned by a robust movement framework. The strategy proposes signifi cant levels The recommended approach to of investment in high quality projects as implementation enables the strategy to: appropriate for a World Heritage Site. As the experience of many cities _ be achieved as and when across the world demonstrates, public resources and opportunities allow sector investment in establishing a high _ gives people time to adapt to quality public realm signifi cantly enhances physical changes, adjust their a city’s ability to attract private sector Introduction lattice of streets and public spaces lifestyles, and experiment with investment and to generate further This fi nal chapter of the Public Realm across the centre of Bath identifi ed new ways of using the city economic, cultural and community vitality and Movement Strategy addresses how within this strategy. _ enables greater fl exibility in and success. Money invested by the Council the overall strategy is to be delivered. the design process would also benefi t the long-term value and A fi ve year programme of capital works _allows for continuous review sustainability of the commercial estate, Public Realm and Movement Programme is provisionally identifi ed in the Council’s and assessment of progress which continues to support a range of A separate document has been produced Capital Programme. important Council services. which outlines a suite of projects that are The Public Realm and Movement The projects within the strategy and This strategy can be used as a planned for implementation or are already Programme document is produced as a programme will be developed in accordance bidding document and as a contribution to being implemented under the Council’s separate publication to the strategy so with the Council’s comprehensive project the business case for continuing discussions Public Realm and Movement Programme. that it can be easily updated as further management systems and procedures. with the Government and regional agencies. The Programme provides a leadership, projects are added. These projects will The programme will seek to ensure Funding will clearly be required to address governance and project management obviously be subject to the identifi cation coordination with all other relevant council signifi cant transportation issues, and structure for the implementation and and approval of appropriate capital and projects and with other projects and the implementation of environmental delivery of the Public Realm and Movement revenue resources, and on the outcome activities across the city centre. It will cover enhancements to the city’s streets Strategy. In summary, the Programme of traffi c modelling and other enabling a comprehensive range of issues including and spaces. The strategy also represents currently comprises of the following streams work to facilitate improvements to the project development and management, a clear statement of intent for continued of activity: transport and movement network. design development, project delivery and dialogue with private sector landowners The success of the fi rst phase ongoing management and maintenance, and developers. Early win projects. These projects of the Public Realm and Movement and will be subject to regular review. seek to tackle issues of immediate Programme is also dependent on the The Programme will be designed concern within the public realm initiation of events that complement the to be fl exible in order to respond to which do not require major capital physical proposals and which reinforce funding, investment and new development expenditure and if implemented the use of streets and spaces for public opportunities that may create the conditions will demonstrate progress or build life. These will include cultural and for other projects to come forward ahead momentum towards the delivery of the community events including public art, of schedule. These can be accommodated Preparatory Projects or Transforming play activities, festivals, live performances subject to the necessary transport and Spaces Projects outlined below; and street markets. movement infrastructure being in place. It is essential that capital projects Preparatory projects. These projects A confi dent city are not undertaken without the necessary seek to design and deliver the public Intelligent leadership, proper resourcing, revenue funding in place to maintain them. realm products and specifi cations and long-term commitment are essential to enable the Transforming Spaces requirements to enable the successful Projects to be implemented implementation of this strategy, and to eg. bespoke street furniture, paving, build and maintain confi dence within lighting, soft landscaping and a city the Council and the wider community. information and wayfi nding system; Failure to deliver the coherent and integrated components contained in Transforming spaces projects. These the strategy will undermine the projects seek to deliver major capital opportunity to achieve the end goal works to incrementally transform the and the competitive advantage and 114 115 Managementt and organisational structures proposals aarre delivered effectively ana d to a Given thatt the public realm is a coompllexe coc nsn istentlly high standard. A soophiisticac ted enntity with a vast array of competing annd coommpreeheensive appprp oachh to DeDesis gn demaands and interests as well asa a plel thhorra Manan gement is recommended thhata responds ofo publlic and privatte righg tst , its govev rnannce to this challenge, and seeks to ene sure that all is fara from straaightfoorwward. Theh wayy in which oof the city’s desiign elemmentnts add to its unique iti is managed and promottede will hah ve a hugge commposition and identtity. BBath and North infl uence ono the apppeal aannd fuuncctionaliity East Sommere set CoC uncic l wworking in partnership of the citty ana d tht e ability off thih s straateegy to with thee privaatee, vooluntary, and community create thee dessired conditions for puubbllic life. secttors haas a key role in leading delivery. The prroppere care ana d mmanagemment Thhe fforrmation of Future Bath Plus, off the city’s physy iccala publlic reeala m iis of a paartr neershhiip beb tween the privi ate and publb ic ffundn amental coconcern as it ccan have a seectctorss, and the presence off a Citty Centtrer prrofo oouund imppaca t on thee user experience of Manan ger has brought ini creaased eemphhasa is the cic tyty. A rir goror uss andn coordinated approaca h ono theh need to coorddinate the deeliveeryr of cic tty to pubblil c realm mamannagement is essential. centre managemment, tourismsm andd maarrketiing, ReR gular annd effectiive street cleaning, rappidd and cultural prooviv sion witthhin thhe cic tyy. repap irrs,, higgh-qquality maintenance work and Future Bath PlP uss will havve increasinng tht e clclossurre off streets for events muusts all be infl uencce overr thee futturre runnn ing of the giivven highh priority to ensure Baathh funnctions cityy cene tre aannd, it iss hopoped, wiw ll support succccessfully. annd fuf rtheh r dedevev loop ththe ethoh s and prp oposals City managa emennt aand governance conttained wiw tht in thih s Public Realm and arrangements in Baath need to be tailor-mmada e Mooveemem nnt Strrategy. to ensure thatt ambitioi us and cross-cutu ting

116116 117117 In addition to these individuals we Royal United Hospital also acknowledge the large number of Bath and North East Somerset Scott Brownrigg councillors and offi cers who SERA ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS provided valuable guidance and comment at open studio sessions, Somerset County Council presentations and on earlier drafts Stubbs Rich of the strategy. We would also like to thank the following organisations The Coal Authority for their input and comments. The Environment Agency Abbey Residents’ Association The Inland Waterways Association Avon and Somerset Police The Theatres Trust Bath and District Crime The Woodland Trust Reduction Partnership Transition Bath Bath and NE Somerset Initiative University of Bath Bath and North East Somerset Visitor Attractions Forum Wessex Water Bath Abbey WYG Planning & Design Bath Architecture 2008 We are particularly grateful to all the individual residents who took Bath Bus Company the time and trouble to participate Bath City Centre Manager in the consultation process. Bath Preservation Trust We apologise if we have accidently Bath Chamber of Commerce omitted any of the organisations which contributed to the Bath Cycling Campaign consultation process from the The strategy team The following individuals were Our thanks also go to the following, above list. The strategy development has led by this team as a core working who were consulted as specialist Bath Environment Campaign been directed and led on behalf group for the development of advisers on the development of Bath Federation of of the Cabinet Member and the strategy. the strategy. Small Businesses Strategic Director of Development and Major Projects and the Ruth Burrows Brian Evans Bath Heritage Watchdog City ID Gillespies Divisional Director of Development Bath Royal Literary and and Regeneration by the Nick Durrant Andrew Grant Scientifi c Institution following team. Plot Grant Associates Bath Society Rhodri Samuel David Gillam Les Sparks OBE Regeneration Manager/Development City ID URP Member Chairman Bath Tourism Plus and Major Projects/B&NES Council Matt Jephcote The late Honor Chapman CBE Better Bath Forum Stephen George City ID Former URP Member and Vice Chair Senior Urban Designer/ Campaign for Better Transport B&NES Council Harriet Miller Dickon Robinson CBE Circus Area Residents’ Association City ID URP Member Mike Rawlinson Claverton Parish Council Director/City ID Charles Newall Prof Chris Baines Property Services/B&NES Council URP Member Disability Equalities Forum Andy Gibbins Director/AGA Jason Smith Alan Baxter English Heritage City ID Former URP Member City ID are the UK’s leading design Federation of Bath Residents’ company specialising in city image, Rab Smith Sir Richard MacCormac Associations (FoBRA) Transport Policy and Programme URP Member identity and legibility. They are Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios Client Lead Design Advisors for Manager/B&NES Council the Public Realm and Movement David Stephenson Future Bath Plus Strategy and associated projects. Major Projects/B&NES Council GWE Business West Ben Tappenden Highways Agency City ID L&R Group Michael Thomson Design Connect Lansdown Crescent Association Limpley Stoke Parish Council London Road Area Residents’ Association National Grid Property (Holdings) Ltd. Norfolk Crescent Green Residents’ Association Pedestrians Association Pulteney Estates Residents’ Association (PERA) Royal Crescent Society

118 CREATING THE CANVAS FOR PUBLIC LIFE 119 The document Thank you to the following Written and edited by: organisations and individuals who have supplied images for Rhodri Samuel this publication. Development and Major Projects/ BIBLIOGRAPHY B&NES Council B&NES Council: 2, 7–8, 10–11, Stephen George 26, 101 Senior Urban Designer/ Bath in Time: 24–29, 94–95, B&NES Council AND REFERENCES City ID: 5, 9, 14–16, 26–29, 33, Mike Rawlinson 37–39, 43, 68–69, 73–75, 76–78, Director/City ID 82, 88–93, 100–101, 108–113 Andy Gibbins Fotohaus: 87 Director/AGA Nick Hand: cover, inside cover, Harriet Miller 17, 21, 44–45, 47, 116–117 Lead Designer/City ID Colin Hawkins: 8, 34–35 Rab Smith Transport Policy and Programme Sophie Laslett: 101 Manager/B&NES Council Neill Menneer: 61 Publication designed by City ID. www.cityid.co.uk Irene Sarda Hervella: 37 Edmund Sumner: 9, 102–103 Thank you to Bath in Time and B&NES for the images of public life used to illustrate the timeline. Thank you to Hess Form & Light for the images of street furniture used to illustrate some of the design ABL Cultural Consultants (2006) Bath and North East Somerset Bath and North East Somerset elements in this document. Reinventing Bath: A Call for Council (2006) Bath Western Council Public Transport Map Leadership and Strategic Planning Riverside. Bath and North 2004–2005. Bath and North Other photography in this to Deliver a Resort of the Future. East Somerset Council. East Somerset Council. document has been contributed Bath and North East by City ID, AGA and Brian Evans. Somerset Council. Bath and North East Somerset Bath and North East Somerset Council BE: Better for Everyone. Council (2006) Reinventing Bath: Cartography, illustrations and Alexander, C., Ishikawa, S., The Community Strategy for Bath A Call for Leadership and Strategic diagrams developed by City ID. Silverstein, M., Jacobson, M., and North East Somerset, 2004 Planning to deliver a Resort of the Aerial photography reproduced with Fiksdahl-King, I., Angel, S. (1978) and Beyond. Bath and North Future. Bath and North the permission of B&NES Council. A Pattern Language. USA: Oxford East Somerset Council. East Somerset Council. University Press Inc. Plans reproduced from Ordnance Bath and North East Somerset Bath and North East Somerset Ashworth, G., J. The Georgian City: Council (2006) City and Town Council (2005) Streetscape Survey with permission of the the Compact City as Idealised Past Controller of HMSO. Crown Centres Health Check Study. Manual. Bath and North East or Future Ideal. Netherlands: Urban Cardiff: Nathaniel Lichfi eld Somerset Council. Copyright. B&NES Council licence and Regional Studies Institute, number: 10002333 and Partners. University of Groningen. Bath and North East Somerset Bath and North East Somerset Aymonino, A. and Mosco, V., P. Council (2007) Testing Innovative Council Connecting Western Strategies for Clean Urban (2006) Contemporary Public Space: Riverside. Bath and North Un-Volumetric Architecture. Skira. Transport: CIVITAS Plus. Bath and East Somerset Council. North East Somerset Council. Bain, M. (2003) Common Place: Buildings and Spaces that Bath and North East Somerset Bath and North East Somerset Connect Us. Council (2007) The Future for Council (2006) Towards a Place- Bath Vision. Bath and North making Strategy for Bath. Bath Bartlett School of Planning, East Somerset Council. and North East Somerset Council. The, UCL (2004) Living Places: Caring for Quality. London: Offi ce Bath and North East Somerset Bath and North East Somerset of the Deputy Prime Minister. Council Investing in Bath’s Street Council (2007) Transportation, Furniture Products. Bath and Access and Waste Management: Bath and North East Somerset North East Somerset Council. Parking Strategy. Bath and North Council (2001) Bath. A City Centre East Somerset Council. Bath and North East Somerset Strategy for Public Art. Bath and Bath and North East Somerset North East Somerset Council. Council (2005) Living Landmarks Bid. Bath and North East Somerset Council (2005) Walcot Street: Bath and North East Somerset Council, Lottery Commission. Public Realm – Key Issues and Council (2005) Bath Economic Assessment of Potential Projects. Profi le. Bath and North East Bath and North East Somerset Bath and North East Somerset Council. Council (2004) Local Bus Somerset Council. Information Strategy. Bath and Bath and North East Somerset Bath and North East Somerset North East Somerset Council. Council, Bristol City Council, Council Bath Package Major Bath and North East Somerset North Somerset Council, South Scheme Bid. Bath and North Gloucestershire Council (2005) East Somerset Council. Council (2007) Place Shaping: Public Realm and Movement Provisional Joint Local Bath and North East Somerset Strategy. Bath and North Transport Plan. Council (2006) Bath Package Public East Somerset Council. Consultation Responses. Bath and North East Somerset Council.

120 CREATING THE CANVAS FOR PUBLIC LIFE 121 Bath and North East Somerset City ID (2006) Towards a Place- Jacobs, A. B. (1995) Great Streets. The Planning, Transportation, Council, Bath City Council, making Strategy for Bath. Bath The MIT Press. Economy and Sustainability North Somerset Council, South and North East Somerset Council. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation Overview and Scrutiny Panel (2004) Gloucestershire Council (2006) The Urban Public Realm in Bath Commission for Architecture (2007) The Social Value of Final Joint Local Transport Plan Public Spaces. and North East Somerset. Bath 2006-7 – 2010-11. and the Built Environment (2005) and North East Somerset Council. Physical Capital: How Great Places Jowell, T. (2005) Tackling the Bath and North East Somerset boost public value. “Poverty of Aspiration” through PEER Workshop, Ghent (2004) Council/Planning Services rebuilding the Public Realm. Measuring the Benefi t of Public Archaeology in the City of Bath Commission for Architecture and Space Regeneration. 2003–2005. Bath and North East the Built Environment (2006) The Keuning Institut and Senza Somerset Council. Value Handbook: Getting the most Communicatie (2005) Shared Snowdon, P. (1997) from your buildings and spaces. Space: A Vision for Public Space. Discovering Bath. Cheltenham: Bath and North East Somerset Reardon Publishing. Council/Planning Services (2005) Commission for Architecture and A Kibblewhite, G. (2004) The Naked Bath Citywide Character Appraisal. the Built Environment/DETR (2000) Guide to Bath. Naked Guides Ltd. South West Tourism Bath and North East By Design, Urban Design in the Research Department (2006) Somerset Council. Llewelyn-Davies (2000) Bath Visitor Survey. Planning System: Towards Better Urban Design Compendium. Bath and North East Somerset Practice. DETR. English Partnerships and Space Syntax (2005) Council/Planning Services City Commission for Architecture and The Housing Corporation. Bath Western Riverside. of Bath World Heritage Site the Built Environment/DETR (2001) The Tourism Company (2007) Management Plan 2003–2009. The Value of Urban Design. DETR. Lootsma B. and Damen, H. (1996) Bath and North East Somerset Bath and North East A Star is Born: The City as a Stage. Destination Management Plan. Somerset Council. Cowan, R. (2005) The Dictionary of Urbanism. Streetwise Press. Lynch, K. (1996) City Sense and Bath and North East Bath and North East Somerset City Design. The MIT Press. Somerset Council. Council/Planning Services (2003) Cowan, R. (2002) Urban Design Guidance. Thomas Telford. Lynch, K. (1984) Good City Forms. Woodward, C. The Building of Bath. Western Riverside. Bath and North The MIT Press. The Building of Bath Museum. East Somerset Council. Dallimore, K. Exploring Bath. Millstream Books. Manco, J. (2004) The Hub of The Bath City Council (2004) Circus, A History of the Streetscape Caring for Bath. Bath City Council. Department of the Environment, of The Circus, Bath. Bath and Transport and the Regions Good North East Somerset Council/ Beaton, M., Chapman, M., Practice Guidelines. Planning Services. Crutchley, A. and Root, J. (2000) Bath Historical Streetscape Survey Department of Transport (2007) (2005) The Bath Magazine. Volume 1. Bath and North East Guidance on the Appraisal of MC Publishing Ltd. Somerset Council. Walking and Cycling Schemes. The Miramar Town Centre Group Department of Transport. Beaton, M., Chapman, M., (2007) The Miramar Town Centre Crutchley, A. and Root, J. (2000) Department of Transport (2007) Pattern Book. Bath Historical Streetscape Survey Manual for Streets. Department NEF (2004) A Wellbeing Manifesto Volume 2 The Street Histories. Bath of Transport. for a Flourishing Society. and North East Somerset Council. Dunlop, P. The Role of Pedestrian New York City Department of de Botton, A. (2006) Signage in Bath. Bath and North Design and Construction (2005) The Architecture of Happiness. East Somerset Council, High Performance Hamish Hamilton Ltd. Heritage Services. Infrastructure Guidelines. Brett, V. (1993) Pitkin City Guides, New York City Department Bath. Norwich: Jarrold Publishing. Elliott, K. and Menneer, N. (2004) of Design and Construction. Bath. London: Frances Buchanan, P. and Heuman, D. Lincoln Limited. ODPM (2005) Formulative (2004) Measuring the Benefi ts of Evaluation of the Take Up and Pedestrian Improvements. Walk 21, English Heritage (2005) Implementation of the Wellbeing Copenhagen Conference Papers. Streets for All. English Heritage. Power: 2003-2006. ODPM. Environment Agency (2002) Buchanan, C. and Accent, M. R. Our Urban Future. ODPM (2002) Living Places: (2005) Valuing Walking. Cleaner, Safer, Greener. ODPM. Ernst and Young (2006) The Building of Bath Museum (2004) Bath Business Plan. Bath and O’Rourke, A. (2008) Place Making. Obsession John Wood and the North East Somerset Council. A synthesis of professional practice Creation of Georgian Bath. and case studies about better living The Building of Bath Museum. Fawcett, T. (2000) Paving, Lighting, environments. London: RUDI Ltd. Cleansing. Street Improvement CABE Space (2001) Living with Risk. and Maintenance in Eighteenth- O’Rourke, T., Bath and North East Century Bath. The Building of Somerset Council, ICOMOS UK and CABE Space The Value of Bath Museum. English Heritage (2005) Vision for Public Space. Bath Spatial Framework. Bath and Forsyth, M. (2003) Pevsner North East Somerset Council. Central London Partnership Architectural Guides: (2003) Quality Streets. Bath. Pevsner. Prof. Painter, J. (2005) Urban Transport for London. Citizenship and the Rights to the Foster and Partners (1998) CHORA/Bunscholen, R. (2002) City. Department for Communities World Squares for All Masterplan. and Local Government. Public Spaces. Foster and Partners. City-break Guides (2004) Bath… Pattie, C., Seyd, P. and Whiteley, More than a Guide. Norwich: Gehl, J. and Gemzoe, L. (2000) P. (2006) What is Citizenship? Jarold Publishing. New City Spaces. Citizenship in Britain: Values, Green Spaces (2004) Street Design. Participation and Democracy. City ID (2006) Bath Streetscape Cambridge University Press. Options Development. Bath and Houghton, R. Reclaiming North East Somerset Council. the Highstreet.

122 CREATING THE CANVAS FOR PUBLIC LIFE 123 CONTACTS

Rhodri Samuel Regeneration Manager Development and Major Projects Bath and North East Somerset Council 10 Palace Yard Mews Bath BA1 2NH

01225 477452 [email protected]

Mike Rawlinson Director City ID 23 Trenchard Street Bristol BS1 5AN

0117 917 7000 [email protected]

4124 CREATING THE CANVAS FOR PUBLIC LIFE IN BATH

A more attractive, distinctive, accessible, walkable and user-friendly city centre.

Increased levels of pedestrian and cycling activity across all age ranges covering a wider area of the centre.

Increased levels of economic activity across a wider area of the centre.

A more extensive programme of cultural and community events and activities attracting attendance from local people and visitors and creating a greater sense of social interaction and wellbeing.

Improved access for people with disabilities and mobility impairments.

Improved access and activities for children and young people.

More satisfi ed residents and local businesses, longer staying visitors and increased visitor spend.

Improved perceptions of Bath.

Enhanced identity and reputation for Bath as a World Heritage Site and world class city.

An enhanced evening and night-time economy.

A safer city centre environment.

ISBN 978-0-9565747-0-1