Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Liverpool Street

Committee(s): Date(s): Planning and Transportation Committee 24 July 2012

Subject: Public Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Liverpool Street and West Smithfield draft Area Enhancement Strategies – Pre-consultation report Report of: For Decision The Director of the Built Environment

Summary

This report sets out details of the planned public consultation exercises to aid the development of Area Enhancement Strategies for the Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Liverpool Street and West Smithfield areas of the City. These strategies primarily analyse the public realm and transportation networks within the specific areas, identify current issues/pressures and set out frameworks for addressing these issues within the context of existing policies and guidance. Copies of each of the draft strategies are available in the Member‟s Reading Room.

The City has already adopted several Area Enhancement Strategies as mechanisms for delivering public realm improvements in areas of the City including Cheapside, Eastern City Cluster, St Paul‟s and Riverside Walk. The plan at Appendix A shows the individual areas and the stage of development that each of the strategies has reached. An important element in developing these area enhancement strategies has been extensive public consultation. The draft Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Liverpool Street and West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategies provide detailed proposals that are linked to, and informed by the Core Strategy. The objectives of the draft Area Enhancement Strategies will develop further the proposals contained within the London Plan, the Local Implementation Plan and Corporate Plan and the Department of the Built Environment Departmental Business Plan.

As part of the initial development of the draft Area Enhancement Strategies key external and internal stakeholders have been consulted, including officers, Ward Members, Chairman/Deputy of the Planning & Transportation Committee and Streets & Walkways Sub-Committee. The feedback gained from these initial consultations has been invaluable in establishing the issues affecting the respective areas and the priorities.

Members are asked to agree that the draft Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Liverpool Street and West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategies be made available for public consultation over summer/autumn 2012. Subject to the outcome of this process, the area enhancement strategies would be presented for adoption in early 2013.

Recommendations  Members agree that public consultation on the following Area Enhancement Strategies takes place over summer/autumn 2012:  Bank  Fenchurch & Monument  Liverpool Street  West Smithfield  Authority be delegated to the Town Clerk to finalise the details of the relevant consultation material in liaison with the Chairman/Deputy Chairman of the Streets and Walkways Sub-Committee

Main Report

Background 1. This report outlines the proposed public consultation on the draft Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Liverpool Street and West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategies. Area Enhancement Strategies have previously been prepared for parts of the City to deliver significant improvements to the public realm, including in Cheapside, Barbican and the Riverside Walkway. The coverage of the City by Area Enhancement Strategies is shown on the plan attached at Appendix A. 2. The strategies deal almost exclusively with the enhancement of public realm under the City‟s stewardship, either as Highway Authority or Open Spaces.

3. The drafts of the full Area Enhancement Strategies for the Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Liverpool Street and West Smithfield areas are available in the Members reading room. The background, justification and policy context sections for each of the strategies are set out in overview in the following Annexes to this report:  Appendix B: Bank  Appendix C: Fenchurch & Monument  Appendix D: Liverpool Street  Appendix E: West Smithfield 4. The City Corporation‟s Core Strategy Development Plan Document was adopted on 8 September 2011 and is the most important document contained within the Local Development Framework. The draft Area Enhancement Strategies set out the policy objectives and key principles for the implementation of Core Strategy policy, of particular relevance to the draft Area Enhancement Strategies are Policies: CS3 – Security and Safety CS4 – Planning Contributions CS5 – North of the City CS6 – Cheapside & St Paul’s CS7 – Eastern Cluster CS8 – Aldgate CS10 – Design CS12 – Historic Environment CS13 – Protected Views CS14 – Tall Buildings CS15 – Sustainable Development and Climate Change CS16 – Public Transport Streets and Walkways CS18 – Flood Risk CS19 – Open Spaces and Recreation CS20 – Retailing CS21 – Housing CS22 – Social Infrastructure and Opportunities 5. “Key City Places” are identified in the Core Strategy as key areas of significant change and challenge within the City. The objectives and key principles of the Area Enhancement Strategies are aimed to reflect this and the Area Enhancement Strategies are pertinent to the following “Key City Places”:  Bank - Cheapside & St Paul‟s  Fenchurch & Monument - Eastern Cluster  Liverpool Street - North of the City  West Smithfield - North of the City

Equality Impact Appraisal 6. Equality Impact Assessments have been carried out for each of the draft Area Enhancement Strategies and they are all considered to have positive impacts upon the users of the City‟s streets and spaces. Of particular note disabled people, older people, children and young people are the equality target groups expected to benefit the most from the proposals identified within the strategies. 7. The positive impacts are anticipated through improved accessibility and inclusivity of streets and spaces, improved road safety and pedestrian movement. The strategies are expected to have a positive or neutral impact on all modes of transport. They will improve lighting levels and introduce play spaces and resting spaces which are comfortable and attractive which provide accessible seating.

Current Position 8. The draft Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Liverpool Street and West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategies are available in the Members Reading Room. 9. Through the Core Strategy and the UDP, the City Corporation plans for future growth in order to ensure that the City can continue to function successfully, provide a sustainable environment for residents, workers and visitors and maintain the City‟s status as the world‟s leading international financial and business centre. The Area Enhancement Strategies will provide an important framework for the future development and improvement of the public realm and transportation network of the City based on clear evidence of need and requirements for sustainable growth.

10. The challenge facing the City is to coordinate the delivery of sustainable long-term economic growth whilst at the same time providing for population growth and protecting and improving the environment and quality of life. The Core Strategy plans for growth in employment of 96,000 between 2006 and 2026 and resident population growth of 3,200 over the same period. 11. In addition to addressing the requirements imposed by future growth projections, it is also vital to establish what the current problems and priorities are within the various areas of the City. Therefore, the public consultations are being proposed at the early stages of the Area Enhancement Strategies development to ensure a responsive strategy approach and enable proposals to be focused and prioritised. The consultation will be targeted at different stakeholder groups including pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, public transport operators, key local occupiers, residents and developers to ensure that a full picture is achieved and will be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the City‟s Statement of Community Involvement.

12. It is proposed that the draft Area Enhancement Strategies will be the subject of formal consultation exercises for an eight-ten week period during summer/autumn 2012. Following the end of the consultation period, the Area Enhancement Strategies will be amended as appropriate and brought back before this Committee for formal adoption, which is anticipated for early 2013.

Consultation Approach 13. The Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Liverpool Street and West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategies will be based on clear evidence of need and requirements for future sustainable growth. Therefore, it is vital to establish early on what the current problems and priorities are within the strategy areas. 14. As part of the initial development of all four draft area enhancement strategies there have been discussions and workshops held with key internal stakeholders, whilst the respective Ward Members and Chairman/Deputy of the Planning & Transportation Committee and Streets & Walkways Sub-Committee have also been briefed. The feedback gained from these sessions has been invaluable in establishing the direction of the strategies and the priorities within the areas. 15. Key external stakeholders have also been consulted on the draft Bank and Liverpool Street Area Enhancement Strategies to establish the particular issues and needs affecting those areas. Indeed in developing the Bank area strategy officers have conducted an extensive public consultation exercise to gain people‟s comments on the existing Bank area and what improvements they‟d like to see included as part of the Area Enhancement Strategy. 16. The principles underpinning the Area Enhancement Strategies have been established through the Core Strategy, but it is important to seek views on how these proposals will be implemented in detail. In going out to wider public consultation the intention is to take a responsive approach to the development of the Strategies, utilising the public consultation input and workshops/meetings to draw together a fuller picture of the existing problems and local vision for the area. This will enable detailed implementation proposals arising from the strategy to be focused on solving existing and often long standing problems, whilst planning for the future in a prioritised manner.

17. The consultation will be carefully targeted to minimise cost and ensure that the views of relevant stakeholders are gathered, including pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, public transport operators, City of London Members, residents, local occupiers and developers.

18. Although consultation on the draft Area Enhancement Strategies will be undertaken in accordance with the requirements in the City Corporation‟s Statement of Community Involvement, the nature of the detailed projects for public realm improvements means that a wider consultation exercise is more appropriate. Views will therefore be sought using a variety of methods that will be adjusted to suit the target group, including online media such as a webpage, e-shots, blogs and more traditional approaches such as stakeholder meetings/workshops and adverts circulated in the local area. This should enable a thorough understanding of the issues to be established and will directly feed into the development of the area strategy proposals. An information report is being drafted for the consideration of Planning and Transportation Committee in September that will set out in greater detail the variety of methodologies being used for consultation and survey purposes. This will set out how the views of difficult to reach groups, such as drivers and cyclists are being sought, and how the feedback will be managed and organised into useful statistical and issue based packages.

19. If Members are minded to approve this report, it is recommended that authority be delegated to the Town Clerk to finalise the details of the relevant consultation material in liaison with the Chairman/Deputy Chairman of the Streets and Walkways Sub- Committee.

Implications 20. There are no specific risk, legal, property or HR implications arising from the proposed Area Enhancement Strategy consultation process.

Conclusion 21. In order to aid the development of the strategies and ensure that the proposals meet the needs of the City community, formal public consultation exercises are to be undertaken this summer/autumn before being reported back to Committees with the final area enhancement strategies for adoption early in 2013.

22. Members are asked to agree the draft Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Liverpool Street and West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategies for formal consultation over summer/autumn 2012.

Appendices Appendix A: CoL Area Enhancement Strategies Map Appendix B: Bank Area Enhancement Strategy Overview Appendix C: Fenchurch & Monument Area Enhancement Strategy Overview Appendix D: Liverpool Street Area Enhancement Strategy Overview Appendix E: West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategy Overview

Background Reports None

Author Victor Callister Assistant Director (Environmental Enhancement) 020 7332 3468 [email protected] Appendix A: CoL Area Enhancement Strategies Map

Appendix B: Bank Area Enhancement Strategy Overview

Background

23. A Capital Bid report was approved by Planning and Transportation, Joint Estimates Working Party and Resource Allocation Sub Committee and Policy and Resources committees in October 2009 to produce a Bank Area Strategy.

24. Section 106 funds from neighbouring redevelopments were identified to meet the costs of producing the strategy and their use was approved by Planning and Transportation and Finance committees in June 2011 and the Court of Common Council in July 2011.

25. Planning and Transportation Committee approved a pre-consultation report in June 2011 which set out the method and aims of the Bank area consultation. A different approach to previous area strategies was taken for Bank, in that the public consultation was carried out at the beginning of the project. The intention was to take a responsive approach to the development of the Strategy, utilising public consultation and workshops in order to draw together a full picture of the existing problems in the area and then develop proposals to address them. This approach was well-received by stakeholders.

26. The consultation took place in the autumn of 2011 for six weeks and was targeted to ensure that the views of all users and occupiers were gathered. 880 responses were received which is a very good response. The results of the consultation were reported to this Committee in January 2012 and provide a clear indication of people‟s priorities for the area which are:

 reducing traffic congestion and conflict between modes of transport, and improving road safety  improving the function and safety of Bank junction;  improving the pedestrian environment;  improving the provision for cyclists; and  adding more trees and green spaces.

The Bank Area

Figure 1: Bank Area Strategy Boundary

27. The information gathered through the initial public consultation and detail from the City‟s Core Strategy, along with analysis from officers and consultants, has resulted in a number of characteristics, problems, and pressures for change being identified for the Bank area, which are summarised as follows:

 Bank junction has one of the poorest road safety records in the City, particularly in relation to injuries to pedestrians and cyclists and the junction does not work well for any mode of transport. It also has 9 bus routes running through it at present;

 Bank is one of the most densely developed areas of the City and the streets are busy and crowded, particularly at peak times.

 There are major plans by London Underground to upgrade Bank station, which is one of the busiest on the network, and this will provide extra capacity on the Northern line platforms and new exits/entrances to accommodate increasing numbers of passengers which are already putting significant pressure on the station. These increasing numbers of passengers will also need to be accommodated on the streets in the area with particular pressure for pedestrian space close to the station exits/entrances at Bank Junction, Lombard Street, Walbrook and King William Street;

 There are a number of redevelopments in the Bank area and in the nearby Eastern City Cluster that are either under construction or planned and these will see increasing numbers of people using and moving through the area in the next few years. Crossrail will also impact on this area with a resulting increase in the numbers of people using the streets and spaces. The City is expected to see continued growth in the medium to longer term with the working population anticipated to increase by 96,000 people to 428,000 between 2006 and 2026.

 The evening and night-time economy in this area is becoming increasingly active with more bars and clubs attracting patrons, including weekend use. This is causing growing concern in the area among residents and business occupiers, particularly in relation to cleansing and anti-social behaviour (as identified through the public consultation);

 There is a notable concentration of important listed buildings in the area. It is at the centre of the Bank Conservation Area with many footways paved in York stone. Preserving or enhancing the special character and appearance of the area in accordance with the provisions of the Bank Conservation Area Character Summary and Management Strategy Supplementary Planning Document, and its heritage assets will be an important consideration when planning any works.

 Due to its medieval street pattern, many of the lanes in the area have narrow footways that are not accessible for wheelchair users;

 The Bank area is recognised as an important location for small and medium sized businesses to locate to due to the nature of the buildings and the floor space available. This characteristic was identified through the public consultation and workshops with local occupiers;

 There is a shortage of public spaces in the area and very few seating opportunities;

 Bank is one of the most polluted parts of the City, with the junction suffering from particularly high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2)

28. Given the nature of the problems that have been identified through the consultation and area analysis and the expected growth in the area, it is evident that proposals will need to be radical and far-reaching if they are to bring about meaningful benefits.

Bank Area Enhancement Strategy Objectives

29. The City needs to plan for future growth in order to ensure that the area functions well, provides a suitable environment, is able to meet future demands and maintains the City‟s status as the world‟s leading international financial/business centre.

30. Taking into account the responses from the 2011 public consultation, the priorities and objectives for the strategy can be summarised as follows:

 To reduce conflict and improve road safety for all modes of transport;

 To improve the function of Bank junction for all modes of transport;

 To accommodate future growth, ensuring that the area functions well and provides a suitable environment that contributes towards maintaining the City‟s status as the world‟s leading international financial and business centre;  To improve the pedestrian environment by: creating more space for pedestrians, enhancing walking routes throughout the area and ensuring that streets and spaces are inclusive and accessible to all 31. A copy of the draft strategy is available in the Members Reading Room.

32. Priority areas for change have been identified in the draft strategy, summarised as follows:

 Bank Junction

Bank junction has a very poor road safety record and is a confusing junction to navigate across for all modes of transport, including pedestrians. The strategy proposes a radical approach to dealing with the junction‟s current deficiencies whilst at the same time making it able to accommodate future growth. The intended outcome is to provide a safer and simpler junction without having a negative impact on traffic congestion in the Bank area. There are several ways that this could be achieved including restricting traffic on certain arms, providing more of a „shared surface‟ approach or a combination of measures. Further detailed traffic studies will be required in order to fully evaluate the options and these studies will need to assess the wider City context and also bus routes as there is potential to re-route buses to provide greater efficiency.

The analysis of the area has also found that a significant number of pedestrians avoid Bank junction and instead use surrounding routes to get to their destinations. Therefore, enhancement of these alternative routes is also a priority and is explored in more detail below.

 East-West Streets

These streets include Threadneedle Street, Old Broad Street, Cornhill and Lombard Street. These routes are heavily used by pedestrians particularly in peak hours. They are also subject to a lot of conflict between modes of transport as people jostle for space and pedestrians cross informally particularly when crossing between the north- south lanes. The Strategy proposes several key outcomes for these streets including; creating more space for pedestrians, reducing conflict between modes of transport, improving cycling facilities and safety and better accessibility. There are a number of options for achieving these outcomes which will be explored at evaluation stage. These could include: widened footways; raised pedestrian tables; easing movement at informal crossing points; reviewing bus routes; and considering managed access for vehicles in peak times.

 North-South Lanes

The analysis of the area has shown that these numerous north-south lanes provide essential walking routes through the area. There is also a notable pattern of pedestrians in peak hours avoiding Bank junction and using these routes as a more pleasant and safer means to get to their destinations. St Swithin‟s Lane in particular is a very popular route to and from Cannon Street Station and the recent improvements to this street, where the carriageway was raised to footway level, have made it a more accessible and comfortable route. There is considerable potential in the Bank area to carry out enhancements to the other north-south routes. The route at Nicholas Lane, Birchin Lane and Finch Lane could be made more pleasant and accessible in a similar manner to St Swithins Lane which would create a vital pedestrian and cycling route from Cannon Street to Old Broad Street, avoiding more congested routes and releasing pressure on other streets. Measures to consider include: raised carriageways to create a single accessible surface; managed access to encourage servicing during off-peak hours; and enhanced lighting and planting to create a more pleasant environment.

 Courtyards and Alleys

A key characteristic of the Bank Area are the numerous alleys and courtyards that are often hidden away from the bustle of the main streets. These are valuable spaces for walking and resting as well as home to numerous retail units, restaurants and pubs. There are several small scale enhancements that could provide the up-lift that many of these spaces need. This could be as simple as enhanced lighting or a more intensive cleansing regime to make the spaces appear well cared for and safe, particularly in view of the growing night-time economy. There is potential to enliven many of the forgotten spaces by encouraging retail uses or enhanced treatment of blank frontages or covered entrances, as well as providing more seating where appropriate. Lessons can be learnt from the more successful spaces such as St Peter‟s Alley and St Michael‟s Cornhill garden.

 Public Spaces

There is a noticeable shortage of public spaces and seating opportunities in the Bank area. Where space is available, such as at Royal Exchange, it is often over-subscribed and in the summer months, people sit on the pavements or between the pillars of the Bank of England. The strategy proposes enhancing the existing spaces by rationalising street furniture, upgrading existing seating areas and providing more seats, including movable seasonal day-time seats that could be managed by near-by retail units. The high status and historic significance of many of these spaces mean that they require a high quality yet simple design approach with the use of robust materials that can withstand intensive use. There is some potential on Walbrook to create a new public space at its southern end where the street is closed to vehicles. Here, the closure could be extended further north and a public space created that would complement the proposed new space on the adjacent land at the Bloomberg development. This new space would also be designed to take account of the new tube entry/exit in this location.

 Trees and greenery

Trees and greenery have many benefits. They can help to soften the street environment, enhance biodiversity, provide shade and reduce pollution and dust. This is particularly beneficial for the City where climate change adaptation, the introduction of sustainable drainage, reducing the urban heat island effect and improving air quality are of great importance. Opportunities for tree planting and the creation of new green spaces are quite limited in the Bank area due to space constraints and setting considerations, including the need to respect the character and appearance of the bank Conservation Area. However, the strategy proposes several locations where trees could be planted, in particular single trees of townscape significance that could grow to a significant size. These locations include Threadneedle Street close to the Royal Exchange where there are already several trees; Walbrook, where a few trees may be possible, and a few other spaces. Greening opportunities could also include planters in courtyards and encouraging window boxes.

Funding Strategy

33. Member‟s approved the use of £140,000 of S106 funds from the Bucklersbury House (£50k) and 22-24 Bishopsgate S106 agreements (£90k) to progress the development of this strategy. A summary of the £140k evaluation budget and expenditure to date is shown in Table 1 below. All remaining work to complete the proposed consultation and finalisation of the Strategy will be contained within the £46,204 budget available.

Table 1: Bank Area Strategy Evaluation Budget Expenditure & Approved Commitments Remaining Evaluation - 16800019 Budget to date (£) (£) (£) Fees 72,000 60,322 11,678 Staff Costs (Planning) 65,000 37,841 27,159 Staff Costs (Highways) 3,000 0 3,000 Evaluation TOTAL 140,000 98,163 41,837

34. A draft delivery plan for the proposals that flow from the strategy is included in the strategy document. The proposals are divided into priority areas: High, Medium and Low. These priorities and costs will be further refined following the public consultation.

35. The Bank area strategy has been submitted to TfL as a high priority project for future funding, however, at the present time, no provision exists within the City‟s financial forecasts for the works programmes envisaged as a result of this Strategy. Funding for the proposals arising from the strategy could be provided partly through Section 106, Section 278 and Community Infrastructure Levy contributions from developments in the area as well as Transport for London as a major scheme. Any future allocation of resources will be subject to further approval of the prioritisation of the various proposals, value for money considerations and the identification and availability of funding sources.

Corporate & Strategic Implications

36. An Equality Impact Assessment has been carried out for the draft Bank Area Enhancement Strategy and it is considered to have positive impacts upon the users of the City‟s streets and spaces. Of particular note disabled people, older people, children and young people area the equality target groups expected to benefit the most from the proposals identified within the strategies.

37. The positive impacts are anticipated through improved accessibility and inclusivity of streets and spaces, improved road safety and pedestrian movement whilst having a positive or neutral impact on all modes of transport, improved lighting levels, introduction of play spaces and resting spaces which are comfortable and attractive and introduction of accessible seating.

Policy Context

38. The Bank Area Enhancement Strategy document has many strategic implications and will meet strategic aims contained within the London Plan, the City‟s Corporate Plan, Local Development Framework Core Strategy, Local Implementation Plan, Community Strategy, Open Space Strategy, Climate Change Mitigation Strategy and the Department of the Built Environment Business Plan.

39. Of particular reference are the following:

The London Plan Objective 1: To accommodate London‟s growth within its boundaries without encroaching on open spaces Objective 2: To make London a better city for people to live in Objective 3: To make London a more prosperous city with strong and diverse economic growth Objective 5: To improve London‟s accessibility Objective 6: To make London a more attractive, well-designed and green city

CoL Corporate Plan „To support and promote the City as the world leader in international finance and business services‟

„To provide modern, efficient and high quality local services and policing within the square mile for workers, residents and visitors whilst delivering sustainable outcomes‟

In relation to sustainability, the Corporate Plan states that: “….we will continue to implement and encourage sustainable practices both internally and throughout the Square Mile, providing our communities with a sustainable place to live and do business.”

CoL Core Strategy Policy CS3 – Security and Safety - To ensure that the City is secure from crime, disorder and terrorism, has safe systems of transport and is designed and managed to satisfactorily accommodate large numbers of people, thereby increasing public and corporate confidence in the City‟s role as the world‟s leading international financial and business centre Policy CS4 – Planning Contributions - To manage the impact of development, seeking appropriate contributions, having regard to the impact of the contributions on the viability of development CS 6 Cheapside and St Paul’s - To develop the Cheapside and St Pauls area as the City‟s „high street‟ and key visitor destination, increasing the amount of high quality retailing, promoting the City‟s unique cultural and leisure activities and heritage and improving the pedestrian environment. Bank junction is identified as having scope for improved movement on Figure 6 of this policy.

Policy CS7 – Eastern Cluster - To ensure that the Eastern Cluster can accommodate a significant growth in office floorspace and employment, while balancing the accommodation of tall buildings, transport, public realm and security and spread the benefits to the surrounding areas of the City

Policy CS10 – Design - To promote a high standard and sustainable design of buildings, streets and spaces, having regard to their surroundings and the character of the City and creating an inclusive and attractive environment

Policy CS12 – Historic Environment - To conserve or enhance the significance of the City‟s heritage assets and their settings, and provide an attractive environment for the City‟s communities and visitors

Policy CS13 – Protected Views - To protect and enhance significant City and London views of important buildings, townscape and skylines, making a substantial contribution to protecting the overall heritage of the City‟s landmarks

Policy CS15 – Sustainable Development and Climate Change - To enable City businesses and residents to make sustainable choices in their daily activities creating a more sustainable City, adapted to the changing climate

Policy CS16 - Public Transport Streets and Walkways - To build on the City‟s strategic central London position and good transport infrastructure to further improve the sustainability and efficiency of travel in, to, from and through the City, by improving conditions for safe and convenient walking and cycling, incorporating adaptation to the City‟s anticipated future climate

Policy CS19 – Open Spaces and Recreation - To encourage healthy lifestyles for all the City‟s communities through improved access to open space and facilities, increasing the amount and quality of open spaces and green infrastructure, while enhancing biodiversity

Policy CS20 – Retailing - To improve the quantity and quality of retailing and the retail environment, promoting the development of the five Principal Shopping Centres and the linkages between them

Local Implementation Plan 2011.1: To reduce the pollution of air, water and soils and excessive noise and vibration caused by transport in the City

2011.2: To reduce the contribution of transport in the City to climate change and improve the resilience of the City‟s transport to its effects.

2011.3: To reduce road traffic dangers and casualties in the City, particularly fatal and serious casualties and casualties among vulnerable road users.

2011.4: To reduce the adverse effects of transport in the City on health, particularly health impacts related to poor air quality and excessive noise and the contribution that travel choices can make to sedentary lifestyles

2011.5: To increase permeability, connectivity and accessibility in the City

2011.6: To smooth traffic flow and reduce journey-time variability and traffic congestion in the City

2011.8: To plan for a City with an operational Crossrail, a significantly increased total public transport capacity and significantly increased numbers of pedestrians and cyclists

Community Strategy Protects, promotes & enhances our environment:  To protect and enhance the built environment of the City and its public realm.  To conserve and enhance biodiversity.  To encourage sustainable forms of transport.

Is competitive and promotes opportunity:  To facilitate the opportunity for exemplary, innovative inclusive and sustainable design which respects and enhances the distinctive character of the City.

Is vibrant and culturally rich:  To facilitate the opportunity for exemplary, innovative and sustainable design and implementation of the built environment which respects and enhances the distinctive character of the City whilst maintaining and improving accessibility. Is safer and stronger  To continue to ensure the City is a safe place in which to do business, work, visit, and live.  To continue to monitor noise, land and water pollution and improve air quality where this is possible.

Department of the Built Environment Business Plan (2012-15):  To provide an integrated service to City developers and occupiers from pre- construction to demolition  To manage all activities and services that relate to the City‟s streets, especially utility works  To renew the City‟s streets and streetscene to suit changing demand  To improve road safety outcomes

Appendix C: Fenchurch & Monument Area Enhancement Strategy Overview

Background

40. The re-development of 20 Fenchurch Street was originally granted planning permission (06/00158/FULEIA) by the Secretary of State in July 2007 comprising a 39 storey main building and the permission was subject to Section 106 and 278 obligations.

41. A Capital Bid report was approved by the Streets & Walkways and Finance Committee‟s in May 2008 defining how and where the Local Environmental Improvement Works Payment (Section 106) and Section 278 contributions from the 20 Fenchurch Street development would be spent. This report approved the evaluation of environmental enhancement projects within the Fenchurch Street area upon receipt of funding from the developer.

42. The evaluation of potential enhancement projects within this area has taken the form of the Fenchurch & Monument Area Enhancement Strategy and additional funding for the preparation of the Strategy was approved by Committees in 2010, following a revised planning permission being granted for the 20 Fenchurch Street development in 2009 which triggered an updated S106 agreement.

43. The eastern part of the City has the highest density of business activity and contains a cluster of existing tall buildings with several new tall buildings proposed. The resulting significant increase in numbers of people either working in or commuting to this area will put even more pressure on stressed public transport, streets, open spaces and services.

44. The streets and lanes in the Fenchurch & Monument area serve as key vehicle and pedestrian routes within the City and already carry large volumes of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The main east/west carriageways are relatively wide whilst the footways on these busy streets are narrow and restricted in places, quite often crowded with pedestrians forced onto the carriageway, particularly at peak times. This area is expected to become even busier in the next few years as redevelopments in the locality and the Eastern City Cluster progress.

45. The City must take action if the Fenchurch & Monument area is to function successfully and meet future demand.

Strategy Area Background

46. Fenchurch Street is located in the south east area of the City of London and, along with nearby Eastcheap, Lower Thames Street and Leadenhall Street, serves as a key vehicle and pedestrian route within the City (see Figure 2).

Figure 2: Fenchurch & Monument Area Enhancement Strategy boundary

47. The main east/west carriageways are relatively wide and carry large volumes of traffic, are functional in appearance and have received limited, if any, visual enhancement. The footpaths on these busy streets are narrow and restricted in places and experience high levels of pedestrian traffic. Lower Thames Street forms the southern boundary of the Strategy area and is a major TfL route and is therefore considered to provide limited scope for enhancement.

48. The north-south streets and lanes in the Fenchurch Street and Eastcheap area are narrower and quite often crowded, with pedestrians forced onto the carriageway, particularly at peak times. This is especially of concern for users with mobility restrictions.

49. Part of the Strategy area falls within the City‟s „Eastern Cluster‟ where a number of new tall buildings are to be located and this area is scheduled to accommodate the majority of growth in office space in the City over the coming years. The City‟s working population is expected to rise by 96,000 to 428,000 between 2006 and 2026.

50. At the centre of the Strategy area is 20 Fenchurch Street, a major building currently under construction and commonly referred to as the „Walkie Talkie‟ building. This will be an iconic tower and is anticipated to attract an additional 2,300 daily visitors to the area, including those visiting the public roof gardens, over 95% of whom will travel to the building via public transport, bicycle and on foot. Commuters will use nearby London Underground, DLR and overground railway stations meaning increased pressures on the already busy local area.

51. The Eastcheap and Leadenhall Market Conservation Areas are located within the Strategy area and contain many listed and historic buildings and spaces, providing a contrast to the scale and appearance of the modern tall buildings. There are a number of attractive churchyards in the area although the amount of public space is limited, and there is an overall lack of seating and resting areas with no play facilities located in the general vicinity.

52. As part of the initial development of the draft Fenchurch & Monument Area Enhancement Strategy there has been consultation conducted with key internal stakeholders/officers, Ward Members and the Chairman/Deputy of the Planning & Transportation Committee and Streets & Walkways Sub-Committee. The feedback gained from these initial consultations has been invaluable in establishing the particular issues and needs affecting the respective areas and the priorities within the areas.

Identified Problems/Issues

53. There are many observed problems and pressures for change in the Fenchurch & Monument area, this is substantiated within the City‟s Core Strategy where the Eastern Cluster is identified as one of the Key City Places which faces particular challenges over the next 20 years in relation to managing business development and needs, particularly relating to tall buildings, whilst ensuring a safe and attractive environment for the City community. Identified problems and pressures include the following:  This is one of the most densely developed areas of the City and the streets are busy and crowded, particularly at peak times  Footways are relatively narrow and restricted in places, with significant numbers of pedestrians having to walk in the carriageway, sharing it with vehicles, particularly in peak times, creating a safety issue now which will increase over time  There has been no significant functional change to the carriageway in the area since the introduction of the Traffic and Environmental Zone in the early 1990‟s however there have been significant changes in usage and user patterns, particularly with increased cycling levels  In many instances, the streets have narrow mastic asphalt footways with high kerbs and there is a lack of accessible dropped kerbs or raised tables throughout the area  Fenchurch Street has known road safety issues, particularly in relation to pedestrians crossing the street  There are a number of developments in the Fenchurch Street area and in the nearby Eastern Cluster that are either under construction or planned and these will see vastly increased numbers of people using and moving through the area in the next few years  There is a combination of historic and listed buildings and spaces within the Conservation Areas set against new, modern buildings  There is very limited amounts of open space within the strategy area  The poor quality pedestrian environment detailed above could lead to a poor quality City business environment, resulting in inefficient functioning of the business City and a lack of improvement could lead to adverse implications for road safety

Draft Strategy Objectives

54. The proposed Fenchurch & Monument Area Enhancement Strategy will provide a clear framework for the future development of the public realm in the area in order to overcome current problems and ensure that the area is able to accommodate future growth. Draft objectives for the Strategy are as follows, however please note these will be refined following the public consultation:

 To create simple, attractive, safe and welcoming spaces for the benefit of the City community that respond to the needs of the City community  To contribute to the smoothing and rationalisation of traffic flows throughout the strategy area, particularly easing movement across junctions and busy streets whilst improving road safety and the function of the street environment for all users mitigating conflict between the different modes of transport  To accommodate future growth, ensuring that the area functions well and provides a suitable environment that contributes towards maintaining the City‟s status as the world‟s leading international financial and business centre  To improve accessibility of streets and crossings thus creating an inclusive street environment for users of varying mobility levels and enhancing walking routes throughout the strategy area  To preserve or enhance the special character of the area and its heritage assets, in particular protecting and enhancing the local views of and from the Monument  To identify opportunities for street trees and planting to promote biodiversity, improve local air quality, mitigate the urban heat island effect and provide climate change mitigation  To identify opportunities for Sustainable Drainage Systems to promote re-use of rainwater and mitigate runoff impacts on the combined sewer system  To prioritise opportunities for improvement within the strategy area  To integrate successfully with the neighbouring Bank, Eastern City Cluster and Aldgate & Tower Area Enhancement Strategies

Financial Implications

55. Member‟s approved the use of £78,546 of S106 funds from the 20 Fenchurch Street S106 agreement to progress the development of this area strategy. The project was originally referred to as the Lime Street Area Strategy (16100123) but the name has been changed to better reflect the strategy area.

56. A summary of the £78,546 evaluation budget and expenditure to date is shown in Table 2 below. All remaining work to complete the proposed consultation and finalisation of the Strategy will be contained within the £43,550.12 budget available.

Table 2: Fenchurch & Monument Area Strategy Evaluation Budget Expenditure & Approved Commitments Remaining Evaluation - 16100123 Budget to date (£) (£) (£) Fees 28,130.97 1,400 26,730.97 Staff Costs (Planning) 48,597.74 31,963.23 16,634.51 Staff Costs (Highways) 1,217.29 337.55 879.74 Staff Costs (OS) 600.00 181.13 418.87 Evaluation TOTAL 78,546.00 33,881.91 44,664.09

57. It is estimated that the cost of the consultation will be approximately £12,000 inclusive of fees, staff costs and consultation materials as set out in Table 3.

Table 3: Breakdown of Consultation Costs Task Public Consultation (£’s)

Fees and printing 5,000

Staff costs 7,000

Total £12,000

58. A draft delivery plan for the improvement proposals that flow from the strategy is included in the strategy document. The proposals are divided into priority areas: High, Medium and Low. These priorities and costs will be further refined following the public consultation

59. It is anticipated that funding for approved improvement proposals arising from the strategy could be provided in part by Section 106, Section 278 and Community Infrastructure Levy contributions from future developments within the area and from external bodies such as Transport for London.

60. At the present time no provision exists within the City‟s financial forecasts for the works programmes envisaged as a result of this area strategy. Any future allocation of resources will, therefore, be subject to further approval based on the prioritisation of the various proposals, value for money considerations and the identification and availability of funding sources.

Corporate & Strategic Implications

61. An Equality Impact Assessment has been carried out for the draft Area Enhancement Strategy and it is considered to have positive impacts upon the users of the City‟s streets and spaces. Of particular note disabled people, older people, children and young people area the equality target groups expected to benefit the most from the proposals identified within the strategies. 62. The positive impacts are anticipated through improved accessibility and inclusivity of streets and spaces, improved road safety and pedestrian movement whilst having a positive or neutral impact on all modes of transport, improved lighting levels, introduction of play spaces and resting spaces which are comfortable and attractive and introduction of accessible seating.

Policy Context

63. The Fenchurch & Monument Area Enhancement Strategy document has many strategic implications and will meet strategic aims contained within the London Plan, the City‟s Corporate Plan, Local Development Framework Core Strategy, Local Implementation Plan, Community Strategy, Open Space Strategy, Climate Change Mitigation Strategy and the Department of the Built Environment Business Plan.

64. Of particular reference are the following:

CoL Corporate Plan „To support and promote the City as the world leader in international finance and business services‟

„To provide modern, efficient and high quality local services and policing within the square mile for workers, residents and visitors whilst delivering sustainable outcomes‟

CoL Core Strategy Policy CS3 – Security and Safety - To ensure that the City is secure from crime, disorder and terrorism, has safe systems of transport and is designed and managed to satisfactorily accommodate large numbers of people, thereby increasing public and corporate confidence in the City‟s role as the world‟s leading international financial and business centre Policy CS4 – Planning Contributions - To manage the impact of development, seeking appropriate contributions, having regard to the impact of the contributions on the viability of development Policy CS7 – Eastern Cluster - To ensure that the Eastern Cluster can accommodate a significant growth in office floorspace and employment, while balancing the accommodation of tall buildings, transport, public realm and security and spread the benefits to the surrounding areas of the City

Policy CS14 – Tall Buildings - To allow tall buildings of world class architecture and sustainable design in suitable locations and to ensure that they take full account of the character of their surroundings, enhance the skyline and provide a high quality public realm at ground level

Policy CS20 – Retailing - To improve the quantity and quality of retailing and the retail environment, promoting the development of the five Principal Shopping Centres and the linkages between them

Policy CS21 – Housing To protect existing housing and amenity and provide additional housing in the City, concentrated in or near existing residential communities, to meet the City‟s needs, securing suitable, accessible and affordable housing and supported housing, by: (i) guiding new housing development to and near existing communities; (ii) protecting existing housing;

Local Implementation Plan 2011.1: To reduce the pollution of air, water and soils and excessive noise and vibration caused by transport in the City

2011.2: To reduce the contribution of transport in the City to climate change and improve the resilience of the City‟s transport to its effects.

2011.3: To reduce road traffic dangers and casualties in the City, particularly fatal and serious casualties and casualties among vulnerable road users.

2011.5: To increase permeability, connectivity and accessibility in the City

2011.6: To smooth traffic flow and reduce journey-time variability and traffic congestion in the City

2011.8: To plan for a City with an operational Crossrail, a significantly increased total public transport capacity and significantly increased numbers of pedestrians and cyclists

Other Policy Considerations - Sustainability Policy - Climate Change Mitigation Strategy - Climate Change Adaption Strategy - Noise Strategy - Air Quality Strategy - Open Space Strategy - Protected Views SPD - Play Strategy - Biodiversity Action Place 2010-2015 - Cultural Strategy 2010-2014 - Visitor Destination Strategy - Tree Strategy SPD - Art Fund, FutureCity (2009) - Laurence Pountney Hill, Leadenhall Market, Eastcheap, Lovat Lane Conservation Area Character Summaries and the Laurence Puntney Hill Conservation Area Management Strategy - The Bank, Eastern City Cluster and Aldgate & Tower Area Enhancement Strategies

Appendix D: Liverpool Street Area Enhancement Strategy Overview

Background

65. The City has developed an area-based approach in order to plan for the future of significant areas of change within the City. To date, several area strategies have been adopted and implemented including Cheapside, the Eastern City Cluster, St Paul‟s and the Riverside Walk. There are currently several area strategies that are being developed including those for Bank, Fenchurch & Monument, Aldgate & Tower and West Smithfield.

66. This approach allows the City to plan for future growth, in accordance with Core Strategy Policies of the City‟s Local Development Framework (LDF) and the Corporate Plan. It also enables improvements to be prioritised across areas in a responsive and planned manner.

67. Liverpool Street area has been identified as an area of significant change with new development pressures emerging, and in June 2011 Members approved the use of £56,743 from the 201 Bishopsgate Section 106 funding to develop the Liverpool Street Area Enhancement Strategy.

Strategy Area Enhancement Background

68. The eastern part of the City is one of the busiest. It has the highest density of business activity and contains a cluster of existing tall buildings with several new tall buildings proposed.

69. Liverpool Street area is located in the north east of the City on the border with London Boroughs of Islington, Hackney and Tower Hamlets (LBI, LBH, and LBTH). To the south east is the City‟s Eastern City Cluster and the Aldgate and Tower Strategy Area (see figure 3 below).

Figure 3: Liverpool Street Enhancement Area Strategy boundary

70. The area is one of the most dynamic areas of the City given both recent and future developments such as Crossrail, 201 Bishopsgate, 5 Broadgate and those in the nearby City's Eastern City Cluster.

71. This area is a major transport hub with underground, overground and bus services, as well as airport coaches and taxis ranks. It is especially busy at and around Liverpool Street station, which is a key transport interchange. The number of pedestrians in this area is set to significantly increase due to new Crossrail station entrances at both Moorgate and Liverpool Street stations. This is anticipated to bring an additional 15,000 commuters to the area at peak time, and will increase pedestrian movements, demand for transport (especially interchange) as well as for both accessible and pleasant public spaces.

72. The Strategy takes note of a number of Conservation Areas: Bishopsgate and Finsbury Circus Conservation Areas (City of London), Artillery Passage Conservation Area (LB Tower Hamlets), Sun Street Conservation Area (LB Hackney), and Finsbury Square Conservation Area (LB Islington). They contain many listed and historic buildings and historic street patterns. The amount of public space is limited, and there is an overall lack of seating and resting areas with no play facilities located in the general vicinity.

73. Unusually for the City, the area is also extremely busy during the weekend and has become the gateway to London‟s emerging destinations such as the markets and the shopping areas of Spitalfield Market, Brick Lane and Petticoat Lane Market, and the bars and pubs of Shoreditch and Hoxton.

Identified Problems/Issues

74. There are many observed problems and pressures for change in the Liverpool Street area. This is substantiated within the City‟s Core Strategy where the North of the City is identified as one of the Key City Places which faces particular challenges over the next 20 years in relation to managing business development and needs, particularly relating to tall buildings, new Crossrail entrances and pedestrian permeability. Identified problems and pressures include the following: . This is one of the most densely developed areas of the City and the streets are busy and crowded, particularly at peak times and during the weekend;

. The existing footways are narrow and crowded making it difficult to navigate to find your way. This is a concern for all users and especially for the one with mobility restrictions;

. The planned increased number of pedestrians in the area will add to the existing pressure and will amplify existing issues if they are not addressed; . Taxis in Liverpool Street, with the rank frequently over subscribed create a very poor quality environment and congestion on Bishopsgate which leads to further road safety issues particularly for cyclists and pedestrians; . Airport coaches create congestion on Bishopsgate for pedestrians and road users and do not offer a pleasant and comfortable environment for the customers, especially at night time; . The area is really diverse with a mix of uses at night, leading to problems with antisocial behaviour and cleansing challenges; . There is a shortage of public spaces in the area and very few seating opportunities; and . Many of the open spaces in the area are privately managed and this creates inconsistency within the public realm.

75. It is imperative that the City takes significant action in the Liverpool Street area to improve the existing situation and to meet future user demand.

Draft Strategy objectives

76. The proposed Liverpool Street Area Enhancement Strategy seeks to understand how the area functions at the moment, what the key issues and opportunities are and what might happen in the coming decade.

77. Following discussions with local Ward Members as well as a number of local residents and businesses, priority areas for change have been identified in the draft strategy to establish opportunities for improvements and potential projects as follows:

 Artillery Passage and Middlesex Street areas;

 Bishopsgate;  Sun Street/Eldon Street area;

 Liverpool Street, Moorfields & Moorgate areas.

78. Draft objectives for the Strategy are as follows, however these will be refined following the public consultation:

 To create simple, attractive and welcoming spaces for the benefit of the City‟s communities;  To accommodate future growth, addressing the impacts of Crossrail, ensuring that the area functions well and provides a suitable environment that contributes towards maintaining the City‟s status as the world‟s leading international financial and business centre;  To improve the function of the street environment for all users (motorists, bus, taxis, coaches, cycle and pedestrian) and mitigate conflict between these different modes of transport, to ease movement, particularly at junctions and along the busy streets;  To consider the function of airport coaches and taxis and proximity in relation to the street function and balancing needs of the various transport modes;  To improve accessibility of streets and crossings thus creating an inclusive street environment for users of varying mobility levels;  To de–clutter any unnecessary street furniture and signage;  To understand and respond to the needs of local residents and businesses;  To preserve or enhance the special character of the area and its heritage assets;  To introduce more seating in the area with an appropriate mix of seating types;  To improve the lighting of the streetscape;  To enhance walking routes throughout the Strategy Area and way finding, especially in the surrounds of Liverpool Street Station and routes to the Eastern Cluster;  To identify opportunities for street trees and planting areas throughout the Strategy Area to promote biodiversity, mitigate the urban heat island effect, address the impacts of climate change and identify opportunities to introduce sustainable drainage;  To investigate the use of play features where appropriate;  To investigate opportunities for public art;  To integrate successfully with the neighbouring Eastern City Cluster and Aldgate & Tower Area Strategies, as well as the boundary Boroughs to create a consistent and coherent public realm with meaningful routes.

79. The draft Liverpool Street Area Enhancement Strategy document is available in the Members‟ reading room or via the City‟s shared internal drive at W/File Transfer/Environmental Enhancement Area Strategies.

Funding Strategy

80. The preparation of the Liverpool Street Area Enhancement Strategy is been funded by the developer of 201 Bishopsgate. This includes fees, staff costs and public consultation costs for a total of £56,743.

Table 4: Liverpool Street Area Enhancement Strategy Evaluation Budget Expenditure & Approved Commitments Remaining Evaluation - 16100039 Budget to date ( £) (£) (£) Fees 20,000 20,000 0 Staff Costs (Planning) 36,743 30,747 5,996 Evaluation TOTAL 56,743 50,747 5,996

81. A draft Delivery Plan for the proposals that flow from the strategy is included in the Strategy document. Proposals have been divided into key opportunity areas and prioritised as High, Medium and Low. These priorities and costs will be further refined following the results of the public consultation exercise.

82. Funding for approved improvement proposals arising from the strategy could be provided in part by Section 106, Section 278 and Community Infrastructure Levy contributions from future developments within the area and from external bodies such as Transport for London. At the present time, however, no provision exists within the City‟s financial forecasts for the works programmes envisaged as a result of this Strategy. Any future allocation of resources will, therefore, be subject to further approval of the prioritisation of the various proposals, value for money considerations and the identification and availability of funding sources.

Corporate & Strategic Implications

83. An Equality Impact Assessment has been carried out for the draft Bank Area Enhancement Strategy and it is considered to have positive impacts upon the users of the City‟s streets and spaces. Of particular note disabled people, older people, children and young people area the equality target groups expected to benefit the most from the proposals identified within the strategies.

Policy Context

84. The Liverpool Street Area Enhancement Strategy document has many strategic implications and will meet strategic aims contained within the London Plan, the City‟s Corporate Plan, Local Development Framework Core Strategy, Local Implementation Plan, Community Strategy, Open Space Strategy, Climate Change Mitigation Strategy and the Department of the Built Environment Business Plan.

85. Of particular reference are the following:

CoL Corporate Plan „To support and promote the City as the world leader in international finance and business services‟

„To provide modern, efficient and high quality local services and policing within the square mile for workers, residents and visitors whilst delivering sustainable outcomes‟

CoL Core Strategy The following section lists the Core Strategy policies which are most relevant to the Liverpool Street Area strategy:

Policy CS3 – Security and Safety - To ensure that the City is secure from crime, disorder and terrorism, has safe systems of transport and is designed and managed to satisfactorily accommodate large numbers of people, thereby increasing public and corporate confidence in the City‟s role as the world‟s leading international financial and business centre

Policy CS4 – Planning Contributions - To manage the impact of development, seeking appropriate contributions, having regard to the impact of the contributions on the viability of development

Policy CS5- The North of the City - To ensure that the City benefits from the substantial public transport improvements planned in the north of the City, realising the potential for rejuvenation and “eco design” to complement the sustainable transport infrastructure, by:

Policy CS8 – Aldgate – To regenerate the amenities and environment of the Aldgate area for businesses, residents, workers, visitors and students, promoting development and investment

Policy CS11- Visitors, Arts and Culture - To maintain and enhance the City‟s contribution to London‟s world-class cultural status and to enable the City‟s communities to access a range of arts, heritage and cultural experiences, in accordance with the City Corporation‟s Destination Strategy.

Policy CS20 – Retailing - To improve the quantity and quality of retailing and the retail environment, promoting the development of the five Principal Shopping Centres and the linkages between them

Policy CS21 – Housing - To protect existing housing and amenity and provide additional housing in the City, concentrated in or near existing residential communities, to meet the City‟s needs, securing suitable, accessible and affordable housing and supported housing

Policy CS22 – Social Infrastructure and Opportunities- To maximise opportunities for the City‟s residential and working communities to access suitable health, social and educational facilities and opportunities, while fostering cohesive communities and healthy lifestyles,

Local Implementation Plan 1: To reduce the pollution of air, water and soils and excessive noise and vibration caused by transport in the City

2: To reduce the contribution of transport in the City to climate change and improve the resilience of the City‟s transport to its effects.

3: To reduce road traffic dangers and casualties in the City, particularly fatal and serious casualties and casualties among vulnerable road users.

4: To reduce the adverse effects of transport in the City on health, particularly health impacts related to poor air quality and excessive noise and the contribution that travel choices can make to sedentary lifestyles

5: To increase permeability, connectivity and accessibility in the City

6: To smooth traffic flow and reduce journey-time variability and traffic congestion in the City

7. To facilitate the efficient and economic construction of Crossrail and other major public transport improvements while minimising the disruption and environmental impacts that this construction will cause in the City, including on traffic movement.

8: To plan for a City with an operational Crossrail, a significantly increased total public transport capacity and significantly increased numbers of pedestrians and cyclists

Is vibrant and culturally rich:  To support and promote the City as a cultural asset and to encourage greater vibrancy and diversity in cultural and leisure activities.

 To facilitate the opportunity for exemplary, innovative and sustainable design and implementation of the built environment which respects and enhances the distinctive character of the City whilst maintaining and improving accessibility.

Is safer and stronger  To continue to ensure the City is a safe place in which to do business, work, visit, and live.  To continue to monitor noise, land and water pollution and improve air quality where this is possible.  To minimise any aspects of the emerging night time economy which are detrimental to the City, whilst continuing to support a vibrant and culturally rich environment.

86. Also of relevance are the:

 City of London Sustainability Policy  City of London Climate Change Adaptation Strategy  City of London Cultural Strategy  City of London Visitor Strategy  City of London Open Spaces Strategy  City of London Play Strategy  City of London Tree Strategy SPD  City of London Quiet Places and Noise Strategy  City of London Air Quality Strategy  The City of London Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 (2010)  The City of London Noise Strategy  Bishopsgate Conservation Area  Local Implementation Plan 2011

Appendix E: West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategy Overview

Background

87. The consideration of a strategy for West Smithfield was instigated as a result of the proposed development of Barts Close and the construction of Crossrail Farringdon East Station. The adoption of an area based approach was needed in order to respond to the changing nature of the area and accommodate future growth.

88. The strategy includes many elements of the, “Farringdon Urban Design Study” completed in 2010 and managed by Design for London in partnership with the City of London, Network Rail, Transport for London, English Heritage, Crossrail and the London Borough of Camden and London Borough of Islington.

89. Smithfield-Farringdon has been designated as an Area of intensification in the London Plan (2011) and it is considered that further economic growth and employment can be supported in the area. Crossrail Farringdon East, opening in 2018, will become a major public transportation hub, and will bring an increasing number of visitors to the area.

90. The area enhancement strategy has been developed to provide improvements in the area in order to accommodate future growth. It will provide an improved and fit for purpose pedestrian environment that would support the increase pedestrian footfall and vehicle movement in the area, whilst supporting the activity of Smithfield meat market.

Strategy Area Background

91. The West Smithfield Enhancement area is located to the north-west of the City sharing a boundary with the London Borough of Islington to the north and the London Borough of Camden to the west. The area has a distinctive mixed use character with a strong residential component. Key local institutions are Smithfield meat market and St. Bartholomew‟s Hospital.

Figure 4: West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategy boundary

92. The existing streets in the West Smithfield area need to accommodate large numbers of pedestrians every day and new developments and major transport infrastructure projects will add significantly to these numbers. The medium and long term drivers for change in the area are listed below;

 Crossrail Farringdon East station: An 83% increase (Crossrail figures) in numbers of pedestrians is expected in the area, as well as an associated increase in cyclists and vehicle movements. (under construction, opening in 2018)

 St. Bartholomew’s Hospital redevelopment: the new premises of the hospital will be consolidated onto a single site, with a new entrance on King Edward Street. (under construction, Phase 1 completed, Phase 1 under construction, and Phase 3 not started)

 Local developments are projected to provide additional residential floor space, offices and retail units.

93. West Smithfield area sits within 4 conservation areas: Smithfield, Charterhouse Square, Postman‟s Park and Newgate. Careful consideration of proposals will be made in order to maintain the historic character, scale and consistency of materials throughout the area Identified Problems/Issues

94. Accessibility is one of the main issues in the area. Many streets of the West Smithfield area have very narrow footways as a result of the medieval street pattern making them inaccessible for wheelchair users and often forcing people to walk in the carriageway.

95. Whilst the area has a limited amount of available open space due to its tight historic urban environment, there are opportunities to improve the accessibility and security of the valuable existing green spaces.

96. There will be a significantly more pedestrian footfall and cycle movement through the West Smithfield area as a result of the new Crossrail Farringdon East station. The number of pedestrians on Lindsey Street/Long Lane will increase from the current flow of an estimated 1,000 persons in peak hours/weekday to 2,800 persons in the same period by 2026 (Crossrail figures).

97. The redevelopment of St. Bartholomew‟s Hospital (under construction) will result in provision of a new cardiac and cancer specialist centre and hospital consolidated onto a single site. There are a number of development sites to the West and East of the West Smithfield area that will affect the changing nature of this part of the City.

98. West Smithfield area is identified in the Core Strategy as a residential cluster. It houses 12% of the total population in the City and it is predicted that this figure will increase up to 16% (1600 inhabitants, Source: City of London Resident Estimates & Projections, Department of the Built Environment, 2012) by 2017. Enhancements to the streetscape and open spaces are key to provide a safe, quiet and attractive environment for residents to live.

99. Security and road safety is an increasingly important issue in the area as result of its 24 hrs activity. The evening and night-time economy is becoming increasingly active with more restaurants, bars and clubs attracting visitors. This is causing growing concern in the area among residents, business occupiers and Smithfield Market, particularly in relation to cleansing and anti-social behaviour.

100. The strategy has been developed to provide improvements in the area. It will provide an improved and fit for purpose pedestrian environment that would support the increase pedestrian footfall and vehicle movement in the area, whilst supporting the activity of Smithfield meat market.

Draft Strategy Objectives

101. The vision for the West Smithfield area is to create a more legible urban landscape which is consistent in quality and accessible for all.

102. The strategy has divided the West Smithfield area into 6 character zones;

th  Victorian Infrastructure Zone – 19 Century road and rail interventions, Barbican Station and the new Farringdon East Station are located within this area  Smithfield Marke zone – Area of the London Central Markets  City Edge Zone - Historic street pattern with modern offices in the south west corner of the area  Little Britain zone - Fine grain historic street pattern; residential cluster  Barts Hospital Zone - hospital site, part of which is currently under development  Rotunda Zone: Historic open space

These areas are largely defined by their character such as architectural style, function, and historical development. Each area has been studied in detail through a series of site observation and studies to understand how the existing public realm operates and where the key issues and opportunities lie.

103. The overarching objectives of the Strategy are as follows:

 To improve accessibility and ease of movement throughout the area, creating clarity of routes and removing barriers to movement

 To create a sustainable and robust street environment which responds to climate change, addresses the need for SuDS, improves air quality and biodiversity, and promoting other methods of transport such as cycling and walking; whilst maintaining the necessary infrastructure for the efficient operation of the meat market.

 To create a rich environment through the enhancement of courtyard areas and existing spaces towards the creation of a high quality public realm, which preserves and enhances the character of the conservation areas.

 To improve the public realm in order to accommodate future growth as a result of Crossrail, ensuring that the area functions well and provides a suitable environment for all user groups.

 To create a safe environment for pedestrians, cyclists and road users by de- cluttering streets, simplifying junctions and providing adequate lighting.

The objectives are divided in the following themes:

Accessibility/Movement  Creating more space for pedestrians particularly on routes that are affected by Crossrail, whilst ensuring that Smithfield Market is not adversely impacted.  Implementing access improvements throughout the area  Creating safe pedestrian crossing points at key locations, including raised pedestrian tables  Creating new and improved access points to public gardens

Public Spaces  Creating new and enhancing existing public spaces in the area to promote quite places in line with City of London Noise Strategy  Rationalizing street furniture  Creating opportunities for outdoor seating  Enhanced lighting and public art opportunities  Provide play facilities where possible  Enhancing the historic character of the area through the use of appropriate materials and art

Planting and Open Spaces  To enhance biodiversity, reduce noise and air pollution and promote climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies  To promote green spaces to create areas for rest and tranquillity under shade; where possible consider the introduction of Sustainable Urban Drainage (SUDs) proposals  To plant individual trees at key junctions to add value to the townscape and enhance views and vistas  To introduce other planting, including planters, with to give interest at different times of the year; and green walls to soften hard urban spaces where space is limited and reduce air pollution  Provide play facilities where possible

Courtyards and Alleys  Improve lighting and identify potential locations of public art features  Measures to reduce anti-social behaviour such as lighting, enhanced surface treatments, public art and managed access to areas

104. A draft delivery plan for the proposals that flow from the strategy is included in the strategy document. The proposals are divided into priority areas: High, Medium and Low. These priorities and costs will be further refined following the public consultation.

Financial Implications

105. Further funding could be provided in part from future S106s and S278s agreements associated with local developments, Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) payments and Transport for London; any future allocation of resources will be subject to further approval of the prioritisation of the various proposals, value for money considerations, and the identification and availability of funding sources.

106. The preparation of the area strategy for West Smithfield has been funded by the applicant of the development of Barts Close, Helical Bar. This includes fees, staff costs and public consultation costs. Helical Bar are developing plans for the Barts Close area, and it was felt that this would be better considered as part of a wider area strategy to provide context. The funding is not dependant on the grant of planning permission which will be considered on its own merits.

107. It is estimated that the cost of the public consultation and printing of leaflets will be £17,000 (inclusive of printed material, fees and staff costs).

Table 5: Breakdown of Consultation Costs

Task Public Consultation (£’s)

Fees and printing 8,000

Staff costs 9,000

Total £17,000

Corporate & Strategic Implications

108. An Equality Impact Assessment Stage 1 – Initial Screening has been carried out for the draft West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategy and it is considered to have positive impacts upon the users of the City‟s streets and spaces. Of particular note disabled people, older people, children and young people area the equality target groups expected to benefit the most from the proposals identified within the strategies.

109. The positive impacts are anticipated through improved accessibility and inclusivity of streets and spaces, improved road safety and pedestrian movement whilst having a positive or neutral impact on all modes of transport and on the market activity, improved lighting levels, introduction of play spaces and resting spaces which are comfortable and attractive, and introduction of accessible seating.

Policy Context

110. The West Smithfield Area Enhancement Strategy document has many strategic implications and will meet strategic aims contained within the London Plan, the City‟s Corporate Plan, Local Development Framework Core Strategy, Local Implementation Plan, Community Strategy, Open Space Strategy, Climate Change Mitigation Strategy and the Department of the Built Environment Business Plan.

111. Of particular reference are the following:

London Plan The London Plan (2011) identifies Farringdon/Smithfield as an Area for Intensification, where opportunities should be taken to accommodate growth in employment of 2,500 jobs and 850 new homes. Key policies to consider are: Policy 2.13 Opportunity areas and intensification areas; Policy 2.14 Areas for regeneration; Policy 3.17 Health and social care facilities; Policy 3.17 Health and social care facilities; Policy 5.10 Urban greening; Policy 6.4 Enhancing London‟s transport connectivity; Policy 6.5 Funding Crossrail and other strategically important transport infrastructure; Policy 6.9 Cycling; Policy 6.10 Walking; Policy 7.4 Local character; Policy 7.5 Public realm; Policy 7.6 Architecture; Policy 7.9 Heritage-led regeneration.

City of London Corporate Plan: Two of the three strategic aims are relevant.

- To provide valued services to London and the nation. - To provide modern, efficient and high quality local services.

Core Strategy

Environmental Sustainability (extract) The Vision: More sustainable travel patterns and modes of transport will be promoted and public transport capacity increased, principally through improvements to the Thameslink service and construction of Crossrail. The City‟s streets will be managed to improve conditions for pedestrians and cyclists, while providing for essential private vehicle movements.

The following section lists the Core Strategy policies which are most relevant to the West Smithfield Area strategy:

Policy CS3- Security and safety - 1. Ensuring that the dense network of buildings and spaces, including the activities they contain, is designed to be safe, minimising the potential for crime and anti-social behaviour and providing for a mix of uses and natural surveillance of streets and spaces. 2. Proactively managing the night-time economy to minimise disturbance to residents and workers. 5. Developing area-based approaches to implementing security measures where a number of large developments are planned or are taking place at the same time, and in locations where occupiers have requested collective security measures. The character and distinctiveness of these areas needs to be taken into account in assessing their suitability for security measures. 7. Ensuring that transport systems help resolve conflicts between the high and growing volume of pedestrians and other road users, by considering safety within the design of routes, stops, stations and interchanges and creating more traffic-free and traffic-calmed areas for pedestrians and cyclists.

Policy CS4 – Planning Contributions - To manage the impact of development, seeking appropriate contributions, having regard to the impact of the contributions on the viability of development

Policy CS10- Design - 4. Requiring the design and management of buildings, streets and spaces to provide for the access needs of all the City‟s communities, including the particular needs of disabled people. 5. Ensuring that new development respects and maintains the City‟s characteristic dense network of streets and alleyways. 6. Delivering continuous improvement in the environment, amenities and enjoyment of open spaces play areas, streets, lanes and alleys through public realm enhancement strategies incorporating innovative design solutions.

Policy CS12 - Historic Environment - To conserve or enhance the significance of the City‟s heritage assets and their settings, and provide an attractive environment for the City‟s communities and visitors.

Policy CS15- Sustainable Development and Climate Change - To enable City businesses and residents to make sustainable choices in their daily activities creating a more sustainable City.

Policy CS18- Flood Risk- To ensure that the City remains at low risk from all types of flooding,

Policy CS19- Open Spaces and Recreation- To encourage healthy lifestyles for all the City‟s communities through improved access to open space and facilities, increasing the amount and quality of open spaces and green infrastructure, while enhancing biodiversity

Policy CS20- Retailing- To improve the quantity and quality of retailing and the retail environment, promoting the development of the five Principal Shopping Centres and the linkages between them, by:

Policy CS22- Social Infrastructure and Opportunities- To maximise opportunities for the City‟s residential and working communities to access suitable health, social and educational facilities and opportunities, while fostering cohesive communities and healthy lifestyles,

City of London Local Implementation Plan

1: To reduce the pollution of air, water and soils and excessive noise and vibration caused by transport in the City.

2: To reduce the contribution of transport in the City to climate change and improve the resilience of the City‟s transport to its effects.

3: To reduce road traffic dangers and casualties in the City, particularly fatal and serious casualties and casualties among vulnerable road users.

5: To increase permeability, connectivity and accessibility in the City.

6: To smooth traffic flow and reduce journey-time variability and traffic congestion in the City.

8: To plan for a City with an operational Crossrail, a significantly increased total public transport capacity and significantly increased numbers of pedestrians and cyclists.

City of London Community Strategy:

Is competitive and promotes opportunity • To facilitate the opportunity for exemplary, innovative inclusive and sustainable design which respects and enhances the distinctive character of the City. • To facilitate the provision of an enhanced public transport system that is both sustainable and meets the growing needs of all users including disabled people. • To enable City and City fringe residents to have the opportunity to make a success of their lives for themselves, their families and their communities by extending opportunities for education, life long learning, skills training and work.

Supports our communities • To protect and improve the health and wellbeing of our communities • To encourage and support services and initiatives which benefit communities within the City and City fringes, contributing to local prosperity.

Protects, promotes & enhances our environment • To reduce our impact on climate change and how to improve the way we adapt to it. • To protect and enhance the built environment of the City and its public realm. • To conserve and enhance biodiversity. • To continue to minimise noise, land and water pollution and improve air quality where this is possible. • To encourage sustainable forms of transport.

Is vibrant and culturally rich • To support and promote the City as a cultural asset and to encourage greater vibrancy and diversity in cultural and leisure activities. • To facilitate the opportunity for exemplary, innovative and sustainable design and implementation of the built environment which respects and enhances the distinctive character of the City whilst maintaining and improving accessibility.

Is safer and stronger • To continue to ensure the City is a safe place in which to do business, work visit, and live. • To minimise any aspects of the emerging night time economy which are detrimental to the City, whilst continuing to support a vibrant and culturally rich environment.

112. Also of relevance are the:

 City of London Sustainability Policy  City of London Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies  City of London Quiet Places  City of London Air Quality Strategy  The City of London Noise Strategy  The City of London Tree Strategy SPD (2012)  The City of London Biodiversity Action Plan 2010-2015 (2010)  City of London Open Spaces Strategy (2008)  City of London Cultural Strategy  City of London Visitor Strategy  City of London Quiet Places Strategy  City of London Play Strategy  Sustainability Policy  City of London Corporate Plan 2012-2016  Draft Smithfield Conservation Character Summary and Management Strategy SPD (to be adopted in 2012)  Charterhouse Square Conservation Area Character Summary and Management Strategy SPD (adopted 2012)  Postman‟s Park Conservation Area Character Summary  Newgate Conservation Area Character Summary