The Beach – Milton Keynes Preliminary Feasibility Study May 2006

ITEM 7a

P e l l F r i s c h m a n n

PRELIMINARY FEASIBILITY STUDY MAY 2006 e x c l n t h r o u g i v a

THE BEACH - MILTON KEYNES PRELIMINARY FEASIBILITY STUDY

REVISION RECORD Report Ref: Rev Description Date Originator Checked Approved A Draft 19-08-05 R Ashiley M Elton B Second Draft 06-09-05 Various M Elton C Final 10-05-06 T Wray M Jordan M Jordan

This report is to be regarded as confidential to our Client and it is intended for their use only and may not be assigned. Consequently and in accordance with current practice, any liability to any third party in respect of the whole or any part of its contents is hereby expressly excluded. Before the report or any part of it is reproduced or referred to in any document, circular or statement and before its contents or the contents of any part of it are disclosed orally to any third party, our written approval as to the form and context of such a publication or disclosure must be obtained

Prepared for : Prepared by :

Pell Frischmann Consultants Ltd. Lloyds Court, 659 Silbury Boulevard MILTON KEYNES

MK9 3DP

Pell Frischmann Form ref: CQF047/A

THE BEACH - MILTON KEYNES PRELIMINARY FEASIBILITY STUDY

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

In response to on-going public pressure, Pell Frischmann was commissioned by English Partnerships to undertake an environmental feasibility study to assess the potential for the creation of an artificial beach within the Milton Keynes area, with a particular initial focus on Willen Lake.

Willen Lake is located at National Grid Reference SP 880 400, and was initially considered as a potential location for an inland artificial beach as the site is already extensively used for water based activities including water skiing, boating, fishing and other water born activities.

As an initial stage of the preliminary assessment of Willen Lake as a potential location for an urban beach it was deemed appropriate to consider the water quality of the southern lake and its suitability to be used as bathing water as part of the proposed new beach facility. An initial round of water monitoring was undertaken on Tuesday 4th April 2006 comprising fifteen samples from the edge of the lake and five samples from the centre of the lake. The retained samples results were assessed against the water quality standards contained within the EC Bathing Waters Directive.

With reference to, and learning from similar urban beach schemes undertaken across Europe, additional possible locations for an urban beach within the Milton Keynes areas have also been considered at the following sites: • Caldecotte Lake, • Furzton Lake and Campbell Park, and • The integration of a beach into either the Western or Eastern Expansion area.

For each of these sites a very brief outline assessment of the environmental feasibility, health and safety issues, accessibility, landscaping and visual assessment of each site as the proposed location for the proposed urban beach has been made with recommendations given to the further works that will be required to fully determine the potential for each site.

Having carried out a preliminary assessment of five potential sites, Campbell Park would appear to provide the best location for an urban beach scheme given:

• Good access and a large number of existing parking spaces; • South facing potential beach site; • Good pedestrian links to City Centre which could easily be improved via effective signposting; • Potential for existing food and drink retailers in the City Centre to service the beach area; • Potential sponsors – Milton Keynes Theatre / John Lewis ; • Avoids potential issues of water quality, safety and human health issues associated with a lake side beach; • Close to main shopping centre – potential for visitors to visit the shops and beach on same day; • The site does not directly impact any existing environmental habitats or designations; • Opportunities to attract office workers during lunch break; and

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• Would keep more energetic and noisy outdoor pursuits focused on the other lake sites around Milton Keynes.

Based on the findings of this preliminary feasibility study it is recommended that if the Milton Keynes urban beach project becomes a viable project, then a full feasibility study is carried out on the Campbell Park site as the preferred location for the scheme, rather than on Willen Lake; the site that English Partnerships were under increasing public pressure to consider as the location for the urban beach.

Pell Frischmann Form ref: CQF047/A

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CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 2. THE MILTON KEYNES BEACH ...... 1 2.1 OPTION 1 - WILLEN LAKE SOUTH ...... 2 2.1.1 Statutory Designations ~ Willen Lake (SP 880 399) ...... 4 2.2 WILLEN LAKE WATER QUALITY DATA ...... 4 2.3 WATER SAMPLING...... 4 2.4 SAMPLE RESULTS ...... 4 3. REVIEW OF ALTERNATIVES ...... 6 3.1 SITE SUITABILITY...... 6 3.2 ACCESSIBILITY...... 7 3.3 SPONSORSHIP ...... 7 3.4 SUSTAINABILITY...... 7 3.5 HEALTH AND SAFETY...... 8 3.6 ALTERNATIVE OPTION 1 - CALDECOTTE LAKE...... 8 3.6.1 Statutory Designations ~ Caldecotte Lake (NGR: SP 889 349)...... 10 3.7 ALTERNATIVE OPTION 2 - FURZTON LAKE...... 10 3.7.1 Statutory Designations ~ Furzton Lake (NGR: SP 847 359)...... 11 3.8 ALTERNATIVE OPTION 3 – NEW SITE IN EITHER EASTERN OR WESTERN EXPANSION AREAS...... 12 3.9 ALTERNATIVE OPTION 4 – CAMPBELL PARK ...... 13 3.9.1 Statutory Designations ~ Campbell Park (NGR: SP 864 395) ...... 14 4. OPTION ASSESSMENT TABLES ...... 15 5. EUROPEAN URBAN BEACH CASE STUDIES ...... 25 5.1 THE SEINE BEACH – PARIS ...... 25 5.1.1 Introduction ...... 25 5.1.2 FUNDING...... 25 5.1.3 COMMUNITY...... 25 5.1.4 ASPECTS AND IMPACTS...... 26 5.1.5 HEALTH AND SAFETY ...... 26 5.2 OTHER URBAN BEACHES IN EUROPE ...... 26 5.2.1 BRUXELLES LES BAIN...... 27 5.2.2 THE BERLIN STRAND ...... 27 5.2.3 PARCO SEMPIONE – MILAN ...... 27 5.2.4 BUDAPEST PLAZS ...... 27 6. CONCLUSION...... 28 7. FURTHER WORK ...... 28

FIGURE 1 – MILTON KEYNES SITE LOCATION PLAN

APPENDIX 1 - STATUTORY DESIGNATIONS

Pell Frischmann Form ref: CQF047/A

THE BEACH - MILTON KEYNES PRELIMINARY FEASIBILITY STUDY

1. INTRODUCTION

• Option 1 - Caldecotte Lake; • Option 2 - Furzton Lake; • Option 3 - New site in either Eastern or Western Expansion Areas; or • Option 4 - Campbell Park.

2. THE MILTON KEYNES BEACH

The Milton Keynes Beach has the potential of becoming a major attraction to both visitors and residents of Milton Keynes, with the potential to generate revenue for local businesses whilst creating a relaxing recreational space within the city boundary. However, the lessons from the various experiences in Europe should be given very careful consideration if this project is to become a reality and also a success. Case studies of similar European projects are summarised in section 6 of this report.

In response to public pressure the Willen Lake site has been assessed in most detail from an environmental perspective, and includes water monitoring and laboratory sample analysis to determine its suitability as a location for the Milton Keynes urban beach.

With this regard, this report will initially consider the Willen Lake Site, before considering the other four potential option sites.

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2.1 OPTION 1 - WILLEN LAKE SOUTH

Photo 1 – Willen Lake map and information board.

Willen Lake is already a major summer attraction for visitors and residents of Milton Keynes with over one million visitors a year. It is centrally located with good access to both the shopping and business centre of Milton Keynes and to the M1 motorway. The A509 runs through the centre of the lake separating the north lake, with its Peace Pagoda and bird sanctuary, from the south lake with its water sports and recreation focus. The north and south lakes function as part of the Milton Keynes surface water sewerage system, receiving runoff from the eastern half of Central Milton Keynes and discharging water to the adjacent River Ouzel. It has major role in the Milton Keynes flood prevention strategy; water levels are controlled by a large sluice which can be raised to increase storage within the lake and protect downstream areas such as Newport Pagnell that are sensitive to flooding. Water levels are reasonably stable for most of the year but water levels can increase by over 1m during extreme rainfall events.

The lake is an open body of water with a history of bank erosion due to wave action. The banks exposed to winds from the south west are particularly vulnerable to erosion and where natural grassed banks existed loss of bank had occurred. Stone filled gabions and piles were introduced in the 1980's and early 1990's. Softer solutions such as reed beds and plastic mesh reinforced grass have also been used on the northern banks of the south lake. The banks have largely been stabilized as a result of this work. Although sand would have larger particle size than the existing topsoil, sand introduced to the lake edge environment would not have the minimal stabilisation provided by grass and significant erosion and regular maintenance would be expected.

Existing facilities and attractions around the south lake include; • Water-ski Cable Tow - 5 masts, 880 metres long and the largest in the UK used for knee boarding, waterskiing and wakeboarding all year; • Water sports shop; • Competition level adventure golf course; • Hotel, pub and restaurant; • Water sports centre; Pell Frischmann Page 2

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• Miniature Railway; • Band stand and separate events area; • Boat Hire; • Peace Pagoda; • Cycle Hire; and • Trim Trail – exercise trail around lake

Photo 2 – Possible beach location to the northern edge of the southern lake

Photo 3 – Existing land use at possible beach location

Photo 4 – Hotel and restaurant on south lake

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2.1.1 Statutory Designations ~ Willen Lake (SP 880 399)

As part of the initial environmental assessment of the Willen Lake site, research into the existing environmental status of the site and surrounding area has been undertaken. The following environmental designations are recorded within 1km of the site: (Plates 1- 3 Appendix 1)

• The site is located within a Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (NVZ). • The Moated Site and associated Fishpond Scheduled Monument is located approximately 500m to the south west of the lake. • The Woolstone-Cum-Willen Scheduled Monument is located approximately 500m to the south east of the lake. • South Lake is located within a Woodland Grant Scheme • Sites designated under the National Inventory of Woodland and Trees are located along the southern bank of the south lake, and approximately 300m to the east and approximately 550m to the north west of the lake.

2.2 WILLEN LAKE WATER QUALITY DATA

The Option Assessment Tables in Section 5 identify the Water Quality at Willen Lake as being a factor of major significance, possibly having a negative impact on the scheme. In April 2006 twenty water samples were taken from Willen Lake to assess the overall water quality of the site, as this data was not available from Anglian Water.

The water quality results are presented in full in the Willen Lake Water Sampling Report, R05000-034V001/A, produced by Pell Frischmann in April 2006. A summary of the results is given below.

2.3 WATER SAMPLING

On the 4 April 2006 twenty water samples were taken from Willen Lake; fifteen water samples from the edge of the lake and five water samples from the centre of the lake.

The twenty samples taken were tested for a suite of contaminants to give an indication of the overall chemical and bacteriological water quality of the lake.

2.4 SAMPLE RESULTS

The results of the laboratory water analysis were compared to the following standards to identify the presence of any harmful levels of contaminants within the south lake water body:

• EC Dangerous Substances - List 1 Parameters • EC Dangerous Substances - List 2 Parameters • EC Freshwater Fish Parameters • EC Bathing Waters Parameters

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The results of the laboratory water analysis have been compared to the above guidelines and standards in accordance with the lakes current and future usage for range of immersion water sports and fishing activities.

The results of the laboratory analysis revealed that the concentrations all of the contaminants tested for are below the recommended parameters set out in the EC Dangerous Substances - List 1, EC Dangerous Substances List - 2 and the EC Bathing Waters Parameters. All the contaminants tested for were also below the EC Freshwater Fish Parameters with the exception of Suspended Solids and Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD).

The results of the laboratory analysis indicate that the water quality at Willen Lake is of a standard suitable for on-going usage for full immersion sports and fishing. Therefore, with reference to water quality, Willen Lake would appear to be suitable for the construction of an artificial beach, although mitigation measures may be required to minimise suspended solids loadings during construction.

However, it should be appreciated that the initial water sampling undertaken on Tuesday 4 April only allows an outline assessment of the water quality of the lake to be made at that particular time and may not be fully representative of the overall water quality of the lake throughout the year. Further monitoring of the lake over a longer period of time would be required to provide a more accurate assessment of the overall water quality.

It should also be appreciated that the assessment of the water quality at Willen Lake is only a small consideration of the overall potential human health risks of siting an urban beach within the Willen Lake area. It was noted during the water sampling visit that the area around the lake was populated by Canada Geese and contained a large amount of bird droppings which have the potential to be hazardous to human health.

On the basis of the initial findings of the assessment carried out at Willen Lake it has been determined that although the water analysis indicates the area to meet the EC Bathing water standards for recreational use and the EC Freshwater Fish Parameters other considerations like the presence of Canada Geese may make the site unsuitable as a location for the urban beach.

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3. REVIEW OF ALTERNATIVES

3.1 SITE SUITABILITY

The main objectives for the Milton Keynes Beach scheme are that the site must be within the boundaries of Milton Keynes, be accessible to the general public and be in an area that people want to visit.

Having determined that Willen Lake may be unsuitable as a location for the proposed urban beach, four alternative sites have also been considered as potential locations for the proposed new urban beach in Milton Keynes as detailed below:

• Option 1 - Caldecotte Lake; • Option 2 - Furzton Lake; • Option 3 - New site in either Eastern or Western Expansion Areas; or • Option 4 - Campbell Park.

All the above sites have been considered as potentially suitable locations for the proposed beach as discussed in sections 3.6 onwards. We have also included brief comments on accessibility, sponsorship, sustainability and health and safety in sections 3.2 to 3.5. The locations of each of the option sites within the Milton Keynes area are presented on Figure 1. However, lessons learnt from previous urban beaches in Europe should be given careful attention in deciding which of these would be the best option site for the new beach in Milton Keynes.

In selecting the preferred option site the following considerations should be made for each of the sites:

• The sites suitability to cope with the traffic flow changes and infrastructure requirements of such a project. • The existing environment should be considered to ensure that by choosing a particular site for the project, its development would not harm any protected habitat for plant or animal species. • The water body around which the beach could be situated should be sampled and the water samples analysed to confirm that the chemical, biological and bacteriological quality of the water body is compliant with the EC Bathing Waters Directive standards. Water Quality within each of the option sites would need to be assessed in both the long and short term by undertaking a rolling programme of water sampling to ensure compliance with the Directive.

The aim of the urban beach scheme would be to create a relaxed semi-natural environment which can be used both by local residents and visitors to the area.

A walkover and desk study of background information has been undertaken for the four existing sites. The four locations together with current facilities and activities at each site are detailed below. An assessment of the feasibility of each of the sites as a potential location for the Milton Keynes Beach development is specified in the option assessment tables (section 4).

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3.2 ACCESSIBILITY

The accessibility of the site for local residents, outside visitors and construction phase traffic will be paramount to the success of the chosen option site. Previous studies and lessons learned from other European sites, indicates that a good public transport system and easy access by the private motorist is a major factor in determining the number of potential visitors to a site during its seasonal opening times and hence the overall success of the scheme.

Ideally access to the site must be designed with minimum disruption to the existing local road network both during construction and operational use.

3.3 SPONSORSHIP

Previous European urban beach schemes have not succeeded and lessons can be learnt from these ventures. The London Beach Project was initiated by O2 in 2003; however planning permission for the scheme was refused by the Southwark Borough Council on the grounds that the site was a subject of a planning enquiry. This immediately ended a potentially lucrative venture that by the time of the planning refusal had already received heavy investment to get it to the planning stage. Good planning and detailed site enquiries need to be undertaken at an early stage to ensure any potential risks are highlighted as early as possible in the scheme programme and preventing money being wasted on unrealistic sites/schemes.

The issue of funding for the projects must be carefully considered as most of the urban beaches in Europe are free. The finance and logistics needed is therefore the responsibility of the sponsors. This places a huge financial and management burden on the guarantor. A case in point is the Paris Plage. Advertising is not permitted on the site as it is deemed to be non- commercial. As a consequence there were a limited amount of potential sponsors. Revenue could potentially be generated by renting out small premises that provide services to visitors.

In order to sustain the scheme when it becomes operational, there would be need for shared financial and logistic support. The MK beach project team may want to consider financing the scheme by allowing a combination of various sponsors for specific elements of the beach, with a local lead sponsor supplying the main revue for the scheme and giving the site its name.

3.4 SUSTAINABILITY

It is imperative that together with a judicious transport plan, other sustainability issues are also considered. Recycling of sand, continued site management and other waste management practices on the site should be given careful scrutiny.

One sustainable option worthy of further investigation is the use of recycled glass within the fabric of the construction materials. Although predominately green in colour, recycled glass it could be used to provide footpaths on and around the beach. It would also allow the Beach development to be linked with other sustainability / recycling initiatives in Milton Keynes and to use the beach construction as an educational tool for local schools.

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3.5 HEALTH AND SAFETY

It should be appreciated that all the lake sites under consideration form part of the surface water and flood control scheme for the Milton Keynes area, receiving and balancing surface waters from across the catchment area. Much of the water entering the lakes is therefore uncontrolled surface water that is likely to contain diffuse pollution washed from road surface and hard standing areas. The water quality within the lakes will therefore be dependent on the quality of the surface water entering the system at any given time, making the lakes susceptible to both diffuse pollution and pollution incidents within the catchment area.

The uncontrolled nature of the surface waters entering the lakes will make the control of water quality difficult with the potential that the waters could periodically pose a risk to the human health of potential bathers using the waters as part of the beach project.

3.6 ALTERNATIVE OPTION 1 - CALDECOTTE LAKE

Caldecotte Lake lies within a rectangle formed by the A5D, the Bedford to Bletchley railway line, V10 Brickhill Street, and Simpson Road. The H10 Bletcham Way (A4146) crosses the lake on a bridge and marks the division between northern and southern lakes.

Caldecotte Lake was constructed in 1982 as a balancing lake and is an important part of the Milton Keynes flood mitigation and surface water drainage system. Year round water levels are reasonably stable but significant increases in levels occur during extreme rainfall events when water is stored and gradually released back into the adjacent River Ouzel. The lake receives sewer discharge from the adjacent areas of Walnut Tree and Tilbrook.

As at Willen Lake, erosion at Caldecotte Lake has been a problem and bank protection measures were installed during the 1980's. Although sand would have larger particle size than the existing topsoil, sand introduced to the lake edge environment would not have the minimal stabilisation provided by grass and significant erosion and regular maintenance would be expected.

Access to the lake is possible at various points around its perimeter, providing the general public with an escape from the crowds of the inner city and facilitates the enjoyment of the natural environment and local wildlife and provides opportunities for walking, cycling, sailing and rowing.

The main public focus to Caldecotte Lake is a hotel, restaurant and children’s play area at the Caldecotte Arms which is a converted windmill on the west side of the lake just off the A4146. Expensive residential properties surround the lake to the north east at Walton Park and south east at Caldecotte.

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Photo 5 – Caldecotte Lake Information Board at the Windmill Pub There are three small car parks to the north of the lake at Simpson. However, car security is a potential risk at the site; evidence of car vandalism was noted during the site visit on the 1st September 2005). There are two more car parks at the lake itself, the main one on the north lake at the Caldecotte Arms (windmill pub shown below) located off the H10 Bletcham Way; the other car park is located adjacent to the southern lake, off Monellan Grove, Caldecotte.

Photo 6 – Caldecotte Arms public house and adjacent hotel

Caldecotte Lake is an excellent habitat for wildlife, particularly water birds. These can be seen from two bird hides on the south lake, one at the end of the point near the business park and one further round on the south shore.

The main leisure activities on the lake are sailing, rowing and fishing. The Water sports Centre of the east shore of the south lake is home to Milton Keynes Sailing Club and Rowing Club. On the north lake the Caldecotte Project, an outdoor education centre which works principally with school and youth groups, is located next to the Caldecotte Arms and is responsible for water sports on the lake.

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3.6.1 Statutory Designations ~ Caldecotte Lake (NGR: SP 889 349)

As part of the initial environmental assessment of the Caldecotte Lake site, research into the existing environmental status of the site and surrounding area has been undertaken. The following environmental designations are recorded within 1km of the site: : (Plates 4- 6, Appendix 1)

• Caldecotte Lake is located within an Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (NVZ) • 3 Scheduled monuments are located with 1km of the lake as detailed below. - A Sunken Medieval village is located directly adjacent to the lake to the north east - A Medieval Manor of Simpson is located approximately 550m to the north west of the lake – Citation Not Available - A Roman Town is recorded approximately 750m to the south of the lake - Citation Not Available • The banks of the lake and surrounding area are within a Woodland Grant Scheme • National Inventory of Woodland and Trees Sites are located approximately 900m to the west and 870m north west of the lake. • National Grassland Inventory site is located approximately 500m south of the lake

3.7 ALTERNATIVE OPTION 2 - FURZTON LAKE

Furzton Lake is located in the Furzton Grid square of Milton Keynes and is bordered by V4 Watling street, Shirwell Crescent, Bilbrook Lane, and Shirwell Crescent.

Furzton Lake was constructed in the mid 1980’s as one of a series of "balancing lakes" designed to hold floodwater during heavy rain. The lake has been constructed on Loughton Brook and receives surface water runoff from the south west part of Milton Keynes. The water level is reasonably stable throughout the year, there not being the same degree of storage freeboard that is available at Willen Lake and Caldecotte Lake.

The lake edges have been extensively reinforced to provide erosion protection. Introduction of sand to the water edge environment would result in significant issues with regard to erosion and maintenance.

Furzton Lake is now a popular fishing lake and hosted the British Carp Fishing Championship, and a valuable environment for wildlife, currently supporting a large population of geese and waterfowl.

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Photo 7 Furzton Lake from Shirwell Crescent with Business Park in the background.

There are three car parks at Furzton Lake, one off the V4 Watling Street, opposite the National Bowl, one off Shirwell Crescent near the Hotel, and one off Lynmouth Crescent. There are no facilities at the lake itself but there is a Hotel and Pub located at the end of Shirwell Crescent, between the lakeshore and the H7 Chaffron Way; adjacent to which is a small business park.

Photo 8 British Carp Angling Championships at Furzton Lake

Furzton lake is used for walks, picnics, and cycle rides. In addition the dam side of the lake (toward the V4) can be fished during the open season. Fishing rights are currently administered by Milton Keynes Angling Association (MKAA), allowing members to fish free of charge, whilst members of the general public can purchase a day permit from the lake bailiff. A remote control boat club also uses the lake operating in the bays on the Lynmouth Crescent side of the lake.

3.7.1 Statutory Designations ~ Furzton Lake (NGR: SP 847 359)

As part of the initial environmental assessment of the Furzton Lake site, research into the existing environmental status of the site and surrounding area has been undertaken. The following environmental designations are recorded within 2km of the site: (Plates 7- 9, Appendix 1)

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• The lake and surrounding banks are within a Woodland Grants Scheme area • There are a number of Scheduled Monuments to the West of the Lake. The closest is the Moated Site with Associated Earthworks located 950m west of the lake. • Howe Park Wood SSSI is located approximately 1.4km to the south west of the lake. Howe Park has been designated an SSSI because of its ancient semi- natural woodland and the largest surviving tracts in the area. Records of the existence of Howe Park Wood date back to the 13th century and possibly to the 11th century. A number of surviving large ancient oaks Quercus robur and one ancient crab apple Malus sylvestris reflect the wood's past as a deer park. • Ancient woodland can be found approximately 1.65km to the west and 1.35 km to the south west of the site. • National Inventory of Woodland and Trees sites are located approximately 150m and 500m to the north east of the lake.

3.8 ALTERNATIVE OPTION 3 – NEW SITE IN EITHER EASTERN OR WESTERN EXPANSION AREAS

The Western and Eastern expansion areas in Milton Keynes both provide a potential new location for an artificial beach. Both areas were allocated in the Milton Keynes Local Plan (second deposit version) 2002 and had draft development frameworks published in Autumn 2004. These Development Frameworks will serve as material consideration in determining planning applications in both areas.

The Western Expansion Area (WEA) is located to the south west of Milton Keynes and covers an area of about 360 hectares. It is south of Stony Stratford, south west of Two Mile Ash and north west of Crownhill Farm and Grange Farm. For further details see - http://www.mkweb.co.uk and search for The Western Expansion Area.

The Eastern Expansion Area (EEA) comprises a total area of 405 hectares and is bounded by the M1 to the north east, A421 to the south and the A5130 and Broughton Brook to the west. For further details see - http://www.mkweb.co.uk and search for The Eastern Expansion Area.

The intention in both expansion areas is to create, by 2016, a sustainable community, with a high quality living environment for its residents, a strong sense of identity, a range of activities and a sense of place. The expansion areas will assist the City in achieving its housing growth targets up to 2016. Some 4,000 (EEA) and 6,000 (WEA) proposed new dwellings, with a mix of dwelling sizes, types and tenures will provide housing choice and variety. A balanced mix of other land uses is proposed, with facilities such as a new secondary school, primary schools, community facilities, including sports and recreation centres all integrated with the housing. Land for employment development is designated to attract investment and allow people the opportunity of living and working close by.

Transport facilities, within and linking to the Milton Keynes city centre, will promote the most sustainable forms of movement, such as walking and cycling, and will give particular emphasis to public transport with connections will be made to the rest of the grid road and transport network across Milton Keynes. A network of open space and

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Both sites comprise land predominantly in agricultural use and have been split into a series of sites suitable for development. Some outline planning applications have already been submitted in Spring 2005 for sites in the WEA.

3.9 ALTERNATIVE OPTION 4 – CAMPBELL PARK

Photo 9 – Existing fountain at Campbell Park

Campbell Park stretches between Central Milton Keynes and the Grand Union Canal. From the city centre, Campbell Park can be accessed via a pedestrian bridge over Marlborough Street (V8) from the Milton Keynes Theatre and John Lewis Car Park. To the north east there is car parking associated with the Cricket Ground and access to the canal.

The Park is currently used for a variety of events such as: -

• Open air theatre • Art walks • Cricket • Labyrinth • Firework displays

Campbell Park’s strong links with the city centre make it an ideal location for an urban beach and the existing fountain site would be one possible site. The fountain (pictured above) was drained at the time of the site visit on the 6th September 2005 but could be developed into a more child friendly water feature, with the introduction of a sandy urban beach across the banked surrounding area.

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3.9.1 Statutory Designations ~ Campbell Park (NGR: SP 864 395)

As part of the initial environmental assessment of the Campbell Park site, research into the existing environmental status of the site and surrounding area has been undertaken. The following environmental designations are recorded within 2km of the site: (Plates 7- 9, Appendix 1)

• The site is located within an Nitrate Vulnerable Zone • Campbell Park is situated within a Woodland Grants Scheme area. • Secklow Hunting Mound Scheduled Monument is located approximately 950m to the west of Campbell Park • The Moated Site and Associated Fishpond Scheduled monument in located approximately 1km to the south east of Campbell Park. • Ancient Woodland is located approximately 1.2km to the north west of the site.

Full details of the designation within the Caldecotte site and surrounding area are included within Appendix 1 of this report.

Having considered each site separately, an assessment of the feasibility of each of the sites as a potential location for the Milton Keynes Beach development is presented within the option assessment tables in the following section of the report.

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4. OPTION ASSESSMENT TABLES

It is recommended that a full Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA) and desktop data search is completed for all the potential sites in order to highlight any potential environmental risks at an early stage.

Willen Lake South Significance Commentary / Explanation Starting Basis / Next steps / mitigation / Major, Moderate, Minor or uncertainties opportunities Neutral (Positive or Negative) Ecology Moderate negative The ecological focus is on the Increased visitor numbers to Review possibility of moving Northern section of lake with its the lakes would not lead to a wildfowl feeding post away bird sanctuary and bird watching significant increase in those from the beach area. hides. Over 200 bird species using the northern lake section Complete full Environmental have been recorded. Much of Risk Assessment (ERA) for the possible beach area is the Site. amenity grass although some vegetation along the waters edge could be removed to open up the views of the lake. Cultural Heritage & Neutral No listed buildings / scheduled Were archaeological Archaeology ancient monuments on or around investigations undertaken Willen Lake during the construction of the lake in 1970. Water Quality Major Negative (Site is not Although the current water sport Although bird feeding areas Further investigation of monitored) activities in the southern section have been set up at two bacterial water quality would of lake do involve people getting locations on the south lake. It be required. into the water, swimming is not is possible that these birds encouraged. would access the beach area in search of food leading to a decrease in water quality adjacent to the beach. Traffic and Parking Neutral Willen has considerable parking Traffic management may be Review the current visitor capacity (300 spaces) with 1200 required at peak demand off numbers at Willen Lake, additional grass covered spaces A509 and roundabout into the existing plans for growth and available for use as required site – e.g. bank holidays potential car parking during the summer. requirements

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Air Quality Moderate Negative Any increase in visitor numbers Investigate the public transport would lead to an increase in car options for the beach. Produce journeys to and from the site a green transport plan to accompany to the development proposals. Promote cycle routes and provide secure bicycle parking Noise Minor negative The A509 runs between the north and south lakes providing good access to the M1 (Junction 14) and central Milton Keynes. Although cars are screened from the lake HGVs and Buses are visible from the lake and provide a constant background noise Landscape and Visual Neutral The lake already has a wide mix of uses and is well screened from the surrounding roads. Community Moderate positive Although the beach may provide The beach would be free and Review the current visitor nationwide publicity for Milton open to all during the summer numbers at Willen Lake Keynes it is likely to mainly the months. (Whitecap Leisure). Public local community who would be exhibition of beach designs attracted to visit and use it. As and proposed location would the existing site already has high be required to gauge the level levels of visitor numbers, good of public support for the access and parking facilities project. combined with a wide range of attractions it would be relatively easy to attract visitors to the Beach Heath & Safety Moderate negative Good existing facilities on site Beach users would attempt to Alternatives to swimming / such as toilets and café. access the water. paddling in the lake should be However there is a need to avoid considered such as a fountain conflict with other lake users / water feature where children esp. the water ski run. could play in safely, located on Depending on water quality or next to the beach. results / monitoring it is likely that access to the water should be discouraged but can’t be prevented.

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Alternative Option 1 – Significance Commentary / Starting Basis / Next steps / mitigation / Caldecotte Lake Major, Moderate, Minor or Explanation uncertainties opportunities Neutral (Positive or Negative) Ecology Moderate Neutral This lake has a strong Increased visitor numbers to Review possible beach ecological focus, with access the lakes would encourage locations around the lake and around the lake being limited certain water birds and undertake detailed ecological and low key recreation such negatively affect other species surveys as required. as walking, cycling and fishing due to increased noise and taking precedent around the disturbance perimeter of lake. There are two hides on the south lake for watching water birds such as Canada Geese and Swans. Cultural Heritage & Minor negative The Lake has a number of Possible beach location would A desk based archaeological Archaeology archaeological sites not be in areas of investigation would be associated with it. These archaeological interest. required. include the site of the medieval Caldecotte settlement and medieval fish ponds Water Quality Major Negative (Awaiting data Although the current water Further investigation of from Anglia Water) sport activities – rowing and bacterial water quality would sailing do involve people be required. However it is getting into the water, considered unlikely that the swimming is not encouraged lake would meet the EU Bathing water directive and be deemed suitable for swimming Traffic and Parking Major Negative Existing parking facilities are No traffic counts / assessment If this location is preferred a limited esp. to the east of the of vehicle movements have full transport assessment lake around the residential been undertaken at this stage. should be undertaken. properties. Only the Windmill pub car park designed for a large number of vehicles (>50). Any beach development would require a new car park and associated facilities

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Air Quality Moderate Negative Any increase in visitor Investigate the public transport numbers would lead to an options for the beach. Produce increase in car journeys to and a green transport plan to from the site. The distance accompany to the from Central Milton Keynes to development proposals. Caldecotte Lake makes car Promote cycle routes and use more likely. provide secure bicycle parking Noise Minor negative The beach would need to be Noise survey would be located on the western side of required to determine baseline the lake to avoid disturbance noise levels and predict to residential properties on the impact of development eastern shore. Landscape and Visual Neutral The lake already has well established vegetation around the perimeter and is well screened from the surrounding roads. Community Minor Positive Although the beach may The beach would be free and Public exhibition of beach provide nationwide publicity open to all during the summer designs and proposed location for Milton Keynes it is likely to months. would be required to gauge mainly the local community the level of public support for who would be attracted to visit the project. and use it. Heath & Safety Minor negative Existing facilities on site are Beach users would attempt to Alternatives to swimming / limited and would need to be access the water. paddling in the lake should be improved as part of the considered such as a fountain development. This would / water feature where children include toilets, showers, could play in safely, located on catering and site security to or next to the beach. minimise the rise of vandalism. Depending on water quality results / monitoring it is likely that access to the water should be discouraged but can’t be prevented.

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Alternative Option 2 – Significance Commentary / Starting Basis / Next steps / mitigation / Furzton Lake Major, Moderate, Minor or Explanation uncertainties opportunities Neutral (Positive or Negative) Ecology Neutral The ecological focus is on the Increased visitor numbers to Review possibility of moving Northern section of lake with the lakes would not lead to a wildfowl feeding post away its bird sanctuary and bird significant increase in those from the beach area watching hides. Much of the using the northern lake section possible beach area is amenity grass although some vegetation along the waters edge could be removed to open up the views of the lake. Cultural Heritage & Neutral No listed buildings / scheduled Were Archaeological Archaeology ancient monuments on or investigations were around Furzton Lake. Watling undertaken prior to and during Street (Roman Road) runs to construction? the north of the lake and there may be associated finds. Water Quality Major Negative (Awaiting data Current water sport activities Further investigation of from Anglia Water) (fishing) do not involve people bacterial water quality would getting into the water, be required. However it is swimming is not encouraged considered unlikely that the lake would meet the EU Bathing water directive and be deemed suitable for swimming Traffic and Parking Moderate Negative Existing parking facilities are No traffic counts / assessment If this location is preferred a limited. Only the hotel and of vehicle movements have full transport assessment pub car park designed for a been undertaken at this stage. should be undertaken. large number of vehicles (>50). Any beach development would require a new car park and associated facilities

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Air Quality Moderate Negative Any increase in visitor Investigate the public transport numbers would lead to an options for the beach. Produce increase in car journeys to and a green transport plan to from the site. accompany to the development proposals. Promote cycle routes and provide secure bicycle parking Noise Neutral Locating the beach on the Noise survey would be northern side of the lake would required to determine baseline minimise the disturbance to noise levels and predict local residents. impact of development Landscape and Visual Neutral The lake already is well screened from the surrounding roads but would need to consider the views from residential properties in Furzton. Community Minor positive Although the beach may The beach would be free and Public exhibition of beach provide nationwide publicity open to all during the summer designs and proposed location for Milton Keynes it is likely to months. would be required to gauge mainly the local community the level of public support for who would be attracted to visit the project. and use it. The existing site is surrounded by residential areas to the east, west and south – these residents would be most likely to use it. Heath & Safety Minor negative Existing facilities on site are Beach users would attempt to Alternatives to swimming / limited and would need to be access the water. paddling in the lake should be improved as part of the considered such as a fountain development. This would / water feature where children include toilets, showers, could play in safely, located on catering and site security to or next to the beach. minimise the risk of vandalism. Depending on water quality results / monitoring it is likely that access to the water should be discouraged but can’t be prevented.

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Alternative Option 3 – Significance Commentary / Explanation Starting Basis / Next steps / mitigation New Site WEA / EEA Major, Moderate, Minor or uncertainties / opportunities Neutral (Positive or Negative) Ecology - The WEA and EEA both are predominately agricultural land at present. Any possible beach location would require a full ecological survey. Cultural Heritage & - A desk based archaeological Archaeology investigation would be required once a suitable site have been identified Water Quality - No lakes currently exist in the expansion areas. It would be possible to utilise a balancing pond or design a water body specifically for the beach. However if this was the case then maintaining a high standard of water quality to enable swimming would be necessary. Traffic and Parking - Predication of visitor numbers and . major access routes would need to be explored and integrated into the traffic model for the expansion areas. The WEA has better transport links than the EEA given the proximity of the M1 Air Quality - With careful planning the number of car Investigate the public journeys specifically for the beach area transport options for the could be minimised – however this beach. Produce a green would only be possible if it was transport plan to designed to be a small scale community accompany to the beach rather than a major MK development proposals. attraction. Promote pedestrian / cycle routes and provide secure bicycle parking Noise Careful planning and screening should ensure that the beach noise does not impact on local residents and that the beach area itself is screened from noise sources such as major roads. Pell Frischmann Page 21

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Landscape and Visual The beach could be effectively designed into the landscape and screened from any protected open views of the surrounding countryside and local residential properties. Community (Positive) Although the beach may provide The beach would be free Public exhibition of beach nationwide publicity for Milton Keynes it and open to all during the designs and proposed is likely to mainly the local community summer months. location would be required who would be attracted to visit and use to gauge the level of public it. support for the project. Heath & Safety (Positive) The facilities would need to include Children would require toilets, showers, mobile catering and supervision by parents site security to minimise the risk of whilst playing in any water vandalism when the beach was not in feature. use. The water feature would be designed specifically for walking over and playing in.

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Alternative Option 4 – Significance Commentary / Starting Basis / Next steps / mitigation / Campbell Park Major, Moderate, Minor or Explanation uncertainties opportunities Neutral (Positive or Negative) Ecology Neutral The park area around the existing fountain is predominately landscaped planting and cut grass with limited ecological importance. Cultural Heritage & Neutral No listed buildings / scheduled Archaeology ancient monuments on or around possible beach site. Water Quality Moderate positive The existing fountain could be replaced with a child friendly water feature or play area – enabling interaction with water but also easy maintenance and cleaning. This could be utilised throughout the summer months. Traffic and Parking Major positive The city centre location ensures that the existing town centre parking can be utilised for the beach. Pedestrian and cycle access could be improved into the park from the surrounding roads. Air Quality Minor Negative Any increase in visitor Investigate the public transport numbers would lead to an options for the beach. Produce increase in car journeys to and a green transport plan to from the city centre. accompany to the development proposals. Promote cycle routes and provide secure bicycle parking Noise Neutral The beach would be close to Noise survey would be the Marlborough Street (V8) required to determine baseline although this road is in cutting noise levels and predict reducing the noise levels at impact of development the beach site. Pell Frischmann Page 23

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Landscape and Visual Neutral The fountain area is well screened from the surrounding roads and doesn’t impact on the open views of Campbell park and beyond. Community Major positive The MK beach may provide The beach would be free and Public exhibition of beach nationwide publicity for Milton open to all during the summer designs and proposed location Keynes but being centrally months. would be required to gauge located means that the whole the level of public support for of Milton Keynes can consider the project. it a resource for them to use. It is also away from residential areas therefore reducing disturbance. Heath & Safety Minor positive The facilities on site are Children would require currently limited and would supervision by parents whilst need to be improved as part of playing in any water feature. the development. This would include toilets, showers, mobile catering and site security to minimise the risk of vandalism when the beach was not in use. The water feature would be designed specifically for walking over and playing in.

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5. EUROPEAN URBAN BEACH CASE STUDIES

5.1 THE SEINE BEACH – PARIS

5.1.1 Introduction

In 2001 a stretch of the bank of the River Seine in Paris was transformed into an urban beach, following a campaign led by the newly elected mayor of Paris, Bertrand Delanoe. Upon election Delanoe had introduced a radical scheme to transform the traffic-choked heart of Paris into a car-free oasis. Part of the scheme involved the closure of certain areas of the Right Bank to traffic on Sundays, allowing residents and visitors to Paris alike, freedom to explore this part of the city.

In August 2001, these Sunday closures were extended, and the Right Bank was closed to traffic for the entire month. The Georges Pompidou Expressway, one of Paris’ busiest highways which runs along the Right Bank of the Seine, was included in these closures. This facilitated access to the riverside for the public. This month long closure was enforced to allow for the first “Paris Plage”.

Paris Plage involved covering a stretch of the Right Bank of the River Seine with 3000 tonnes of sand creating an artificial beach. 240 sun umbrellas, 40 hammocks and 150 palm trees were provided by the project’s sponsors for the use, for free, of visitors to the plage. Showers, springs and other sprinkler systems were also provided, as the Seine’s poor water- quality made it unsuitable for bathing.

The provision of these facilities, as well as the sand itself, represented an enormous cost to the sponsors, particularly given the Mayors refusal to commercialise the event. In subsequent years this financial burden has, and will continue to increase, as every Paris Plage has to be bigger and better than the year before.

5.1.2 FUNDING

The Paris Plage has proved extremely popular, both with Parisians and visitors to the city alike. However the realisation of the Mayor’s vision has not come cheap in terms of effort and money. The 2002 event cost an estimated 1.5 million Euro. The city authorities paid 700’000 Euro of this amount, with the event’s sponsors contributing the remaining 800’000 Euro. In 2004 the cost rose to some 2 million Euros with the city contributing 600’000 and the sponsors paying the remaining 1.4 million. This represents an enormous investment by the corporate sponsors given the non-commercial nature of the project. Clearly the sponsors had been carefully chosen as groups who had the interests of the city rather than profit at heart, as advertising was not permitted in or around the beach.

5.1.3 COMMUNITY

The Paris Plage was part of a wider campaign to give the city of Paris back to the common Parisian and visitors to the city. It gave the whole population access to a safe area of relaxation in the heart of a city which hitherto had been clogged with traffic. Parisians no longer had to travel the hundreds of miles required to experience a beach holiday. The non- commercialisation of the beach also ensured equal access to everybody.

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In 2004, more than three million people visited the urban beach, of which 50% came from Paris, 35% visited from across France, while 15% were visitors from abroad. This represents positive growth in tourism to the city.

5.1.4 ASPECTS AND IMPACTS

As with every project of this type, the Paris Plage also has problematic and expensive logistical issues attached. The main issue is addressing the question of what to do with the sand after the event. The sand is provided by Societe Lafarge, a construction company who quarry the sand just outside Paris and transport it to the site. At the end of the event the sand is disinfected and used to fill playground sand pits throughout the city. This is a major operation involving the cleaning and moving of 3000 tonnes of sand and represents a major burden for Lafarge.

The palm trees that are brought in to give the beach a tropical air need to be moved and stored to await the following years event. The palms are usually moved into greenhouses where they are tended by gardeners who carefully monitor their development. Tending to 150 palm trees in greenhouses is a full time job and represent added expense.

Electricity and water for the event are provided by Electricite de France (EDF) and the Paris Water Company respectively. Due to the provision of sprinklers and showers etc as mentioned previously, consumption of electricity and water is high.

To ensure the continuity and sustainability of the project, careful consideration should be given to these aspects of its organization and to ascertain whether or not the non commercialisation of the project is beneficial for all parties involved in its organisation.

5.1.5 HEALTH AND SAFETY

The beach hosts a huge number of people during the summer periods and consequently any number of health and environmental concerns arise.

These include issues regarding litter, provision of clean toilet facilities, noise pollution and the general cleanliness of the beach. If insufficient toilet facilities are not provided visitors to the beach are likely to find other places of convenience which places an increased burden on nearby shops and restaurants with toilet facilities. These facilities would not have the capacity to cater for 200,000 visitors a day experienced by the Paris event.

The city’s waste collection department would be overstretched during these events and may not be able to cope with dealing with all the litter on a daily basis. This may create a backlog of litter collection and ruin the beach environment for visitors.

5.2 OTHER URBAN BEACHES IN EUROPE

The success of the Paris Plage held on the banks of River Seine during the traditional holiday month of August in the city of Paris has sparked other events across Europe.

It has become fashionable to be able to enjoy the delights offered by these cities whilst having the feeling of being on a seaside holiday.

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5.2.1 BRUXELLES LES BAIN

In the Belgian capital Brussels the’ beach’ has been built on the banks of the Quai des Péniches, along a canal in the City centre. The authorities of the city are hoping to attract more than 500,000 visitors this year. This event is in its second year, despite extensive restrictions. Activities such as swimming, skating, heavy drinking and music are banned. Animals and pets are also not allowed on the Bruxelles les Bain. Attendance to the event has been very encouraging and the city authorities expect visitor number to grow year on year.

5.2.2 THE BERLIN STRAND

The Berlin version of the Paris Plage is an aggregation of various drinking bars. Sand hammocks have also been placed in various parts of the city. The idea is to offer stressed workers a holiday experience in the city.

During their breaks, they can sit and relax and simulate a holiday experience without the hassle of having to travel. The Berlin Strand has sand sprinkled throughout various vantage locations across the city and is therefore not as centralized as that of Paris. It is also not situated along a stretch of water so doesn’t offer the seaside atmosphere of Paris and Brussels.

5.2.3 PARCO SEMPIONE – MILAN

The biggest park in the city of Milan, Parco Sempione, had 600 tonnes of sand deposited on it. The authorities of the city planted palm trees set up umbrellas and have also provided a swimming pool. Changing cabins and deck chairs have also been added for use by people wanting to use the pool. This project was very popular and is believed to have brought a sudden lift to the life of the Milanese.

5.2.4 BUDAPEST PLAZS

In Budapest, Hungary, the city authorities have created five sandy beaches along the banks of the famous Danube River. The Budapest event is based around a music festival. Each of the beaches has a different theme. This is to allow for people to enjoy their own type of music with people of similar tastes.

This year, the organizers of the events are expecting about 1.5 million people to attend. The event is in its second year and has clearly proved to be a popular with locals and tourists alike. The water quality of the Danube is poor so bathing is not allowed at these beaches.

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6. CONCLUSION

The Milton Keynes urban beach has great potential to be a nationally recognised landmark development for the city. In addition the beach scheme could have wider indirect benefits to the retail and tourist sector in Milton Keynes. For this scheme to succeed the Milton Keynes beach should adopt the lessons learned by other European cities, providing an easily accessible urban beach with associated facilities to attract both families and city workers.

Having carried out a preliminary assessment of five potential sites, Campbell Park would appear to provide the best location for an urban beach scheme given:

Based on the findings of this preliminary feasibility study it is therefore recommended that should the Milton Keynes urban beach become a viable project then a full feasibility study is carried out on the Campbell Park site as the preferred location for the scheme.

7. FURTHER WORK

It is recommended that this report is used purely as a preliminary feasibility study to assist in the identification of a potential site for the proposed Milton Keynes beach project.

Once a potential site or potential sites have been identified in further detail then it is suggested that a more in-depth feasibility study is completed on the chosen site. The scope of this additional works should include detailed assessments of the following:

• Traffic Impact Assessment; • Financial assessments and costs of the proposed scheme; • Full environmental impact assessment, including detailed water quality monitoring; • Socio-economic assessment of the scheme; • Life cycle analysis of the scheme including on going maintenance requirements; • Full examination of existing schemes within Europe including site visits and local perception surveys.

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Once the full feasibility study of the preferred site has been undertaken a one day workshop could be organised with local stakeholders in order to discuss the findings of the study and to agree the way forward. Key stakeholders would include representatives from:

• Milton Keynes Council; • English Partnership; • Parks Trust; • MKAA; • MK Theatre; and • Potential Sponsors.

Once the preferred option has been selected and preliminary designs prepared targeted public consultation should be undertaken to get the views of local residents and existing users of the lakes and facilities in Milton Keynes.

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Pell Frischmann Form ref: CQF047/A