Franklin Square Master Plan
DRAFT DECEMBER 2013
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Franklin Square Master Plan has been prepared by a diverse group of officers from the City of Hobart.
A large number of community members, visitors and other stakeholders have also contributed their thoughts, ideas and aspirations for Franklin Square.
Thank you to everyone who has assisted with Figure 1 A special thanks to Atlas cafe for their this Master Plan, we trust you can see impromptu 'paper bag poll' on Franklin Square [Atlas something of your input in the work Café]. presented.
Figure 2 (Cover photo credits) 1 Collin Denison. 2 Newspix/Photographers Mercury. 3 Newspix/Kim Eiszele. 4 Collin Denison. 5 Richard Jupe. 6 City of Hobart. 7 Richard Jupe. 8 Newspix/Sam Roswarne. 9 Newspix/Leigh Winburn. 10 'Digital Odyssey', Craig Walsh, Franklin Square, Hobart, Ten Days on the Island 2011 – Image: Alistair Bett, f8 Photography© Courtesy of Ten Days on the Island. 11 Crowther Library AUTAS00112292217112. 13 Richard Jupe. 14 Ricahrd Jupe. 15 Kim Eiszele. 16 City of Hobart. 17 Raoul Kochanowskis. 18 Richard Jupe.
CONTENTS
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... I 2. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 3. VISION ...... 7 4. THE PARK WITHIN THE CITY ...... 9 5. CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE ...... 17 6. SOFT LANDSCAPE ...... 25 7. HARD LANDSCAPE ...... 29 8. ACTIVITY ...... 37 9. CONCEPT PLAN ...... 43 APPENDIX 1 REVISED STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE ...... 45 REFERENCES ...... 47
“I think the Park is great as it is. Why change what isn’t broken...”
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Franklin Square is the City of Hobart’s most central park, and one of its most popular.1 It is listed on the Tasmanian heritage Register because its townscape and social associations are regarded as important to the community’s sense of place.
It is also of historic heritage significance due to its ability to demonstrate the principal characteristics of a Victorian inner city park Figure 3 Franklin Square has been an important and it has the potential to yield important destination for everyday activities within central Hobart information, of an archaeological nature, that since its establishment in the mid-19th Century [Hobart may contribute to a greater understanding of City Council]. Tasmania’s history. The Franklin Square Master Plan sets out the However, there is little preparatory work in Vision for the park, this being: place addressing park management and Franklin Square is Hobart’s civic park; a refurbishment. dignified place that tells of Hobart; its people and their heritage. In light of its prominent location, heritage values and high usage, Franklin Square It is a beautiful green refuge for use by deserves a well-considered approach to all: a place to pass through; a management. Furthermore, a significant destination to gather, relax and play; a number of built assets within the Park are soon venue for cultural expression and due for replacement. It is important that any activity. future works promote the values of Franklin Based on background research and the Square, and contribute to its ongoing findings of the initial community engagement, popularity. a suite of Objectives have been developed to Recognising this, the City of Hobart has guide the Master Plan: prepared a new master plan for Franklin To provide safe and accessible spaces Square. within the Park for use by people of all ages – including youth, children and older people.
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To promote activation of the Park. including the Macquarie Street pergola, To conserve the Park’s cultural significance Wishing Well and Speakers Lectern. – and that of its environs – and to Providing variety in planting through integrate it with contemporary use. feature borders, low shrub beds and To celebrate and interpret the Park’s greater diversity along the Davey Street cultural significance, including the co- boundary. existence of differing perceptions of Redevelopment of the Elizabeth Street cultural significance. amenities roof area and adjoining pathway To define the civic character of the Park to improve access, provide additional through the use of quality materials, seating, shelter, and services for its use for finishes and management. small-to-medium performances and To strengthen the landscape values of the events. Park through carefully designed soft Potential redevelopment of the lower half landscape treatment and horticultural of the Elizabeth Street amenities building practices. for uses that provide greater activation, To review and progress key policies passive surveillance and guardianship of contained in the draft Franklin Square that area. Conservation Plan. Replacement of ageing furniture such as To integrate the recommendations of lighting, interpretive signage and seating Hobart 2010 and subsequent initiatives as with a new furniture suite consistent with they relate to Franklin Square and its the park’s civic character and cultural environs. significance.
This Master Plan provides the context, analysis Following its installation in January 1865, the of key issues, and broad recommendations to statue of Sir John Franklin was never properly achieve the Vision, including: unveiled; the canvas cover that cloaked Sir Replacement of existing pavement and John Franklin eventually just blowing away retaining walls with materials to during a Hobart storm. complement the Macquarie Street Civic As both the park’s namesake, and the very Ridge. reason for the creation of this park, the statue Partial restoration of the Victorian era deserves a warmer welcome to Hobart. layout through relocation of the Chess With an endorsed Master Plan to guide the Board, removal of the Elizabeth Street axial refurbishment of Franklin Square, it would nice path extension, and referencing the to hope that Hobart can mark the 150th original layout through landscaping and anniversary with an official celebration – the pavement detailing. opening party – that it never quite received in Removal of built elements that detract 1865. from the park’s cultural significance
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‘…in the eve the natives made a fire near where we slep’
2. INTRODUCTION
2.1 Franklin Square In response, Parliament resolved that the When Lieutenant Governor David Collins’ party monument should be located on the site of the landed in Sullivans Cove in February 1804, a recently demolished Old Government House, gang of convicts was immediately committed from where Franklin had administered the 7 to clear vegetation from the ridge above the Colony. Cove for the Lieutenant’s quarters, and those Franklin Square was then developed in the of his senior officers. mid-1860s as an inner city public park to house Little is recorded of how Aborigines used the the bronze statue of Sir John Franklin. ridge above Sullivans Cove. However, Franklin Square has also been a center of Reverend Knopwood’s diary of those first Hobart’s civil life; including a place to muster nights, reveals Aborigines were familiar with the population, protest against government the site, whereby ‘in the eve the natives made actions, or simply to gather and retreat from 2 a fire near where we slep’. the City around them. The park was even Therefore, just like many other areas of the reconfigured to provide shelter from possible Derwent estuary, the area’s proximity to a air raids during World War II. sheltered embayment and the many resources it yielded, suggest it is likely that it was often utilised.3 Within three weeks, Collins was able to move from his tent into a basic hut, the first Government House on the site,4 and for many decades the site was the centre of administration for the Van Diemens Land colony. 5 Sir John Franklin was Governor of Van Diemens Land between 1837 and 1843. He died in 1847 Figure 4 - Franklin Square in the late 1860s following installation of the Sir John Franklin Statue in 1865 while charting the final section of the Arctic’s [Samuel Clifford Crowther Library. North West Passage. AUTAS001122922171]. In 1860 the Parliament of Tasmania passed a resolution dedicating funds for the creation of a monument to Sir John Franklin.6 During the debate, one Member of Parliament lamented the absence of a square in the Town to place such a monument.
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Yet the site’s association with the Tasmanian Therefore, the purpose of the Master Plan is Aborigines has never ceased; those bronze to: statues of Sir John Franklin and Dry William Draw together the values, constraints and Crowther also – to many – provide a opportunities for Franklin Square connection between the park and Tasmanian Outline the preferred future direction for Aborigines, particularly Mathinna and William Franklin Square Lane. Both of who knew Sullivans Cove, both Present a landscape concept that of who are themselves deeply entwined with illustrates the recommended actions for the men now captured in bronze. refurbishment of the park for the next 25 Today, less often than it once did, Franklin years. Square also sporadically becomes a focal point 2.2.1 Community Engagement for civil protest in Hobart. Perhaps more often In preparing the Master Plan, a strong than it once did, Franklin Square becomes the engagement program, provided opportunities venue for small concerts and larger cultural for people to contribute to the master events. planning process. Above all, Franklin Square continues to be a This program included: popular destination within the City, a meeting Targeted discussions and activities with place for friends and family, and the park for key individuals, agencies, professional that quick lunchtime retreat. bodies and children. 2.2 The Franklin Square Master Park use and values survey delivered both online and onsite. Plan Invitation for written submissions. This Master Plan sets out the strategic Onsite ‘walk and talk’ sessions and more direction for the renewal of Franklin Square for informal ‘drop in’ sessions (weekend and its next 25 years. weekday lunch). While the park certainly is “great as it is” (as Dedicated children’s activities to learn of one survey respondent observed), a number of how younger visitors value the park. built elements are due for replacement in the The purpose of this program was to near future. In light of its prominent and understand what kind of park Franklin Square central location, cultural significance and high is, and determine what kind of park people usage, Franklin Square deserves a well- want Franklin Square to be. considered approach to its refurbishment. The findings of the engagement program have been discussed throughout the Master Plan where relevant.
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2.3 Strategic Context 2.3.1 Hobart 2025 Strategic Many other strategic works and reference Framework documents have informed the preparation of Hobart 2025 outlines those aspects of the the Master Plan. These key works are Hobart valued by the community, as well as discussed below. community aspirations for 2025.
In doing so, Hobart 2025 describes the future directions that will guide strategy development into the future.
The likely implications for the Master Plan arising from Hobart 2025 are outlined below.
FUTURE DIRECTION 1 – Offers opportunities for all ages and a city for life Remove physical barriers to access where practical Provide for different age groups of visitors Facilitate activities & events within the park for all Promote safety through application of the contemporary principles of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) FUTURE DIRECTION 2 – Is recognised for its natural beauty and quality of life Understand the role of the park within central Hobart Apply relevant conclusions from Hobart 2010 – Public Spaces and Public Life, a city with people in mind FUTURE DIRECTION 4 – Achieves good quality development and urban management Apply the Burra Charter and other relevant material regarding the conservation of cultural heritage Provision of interpretation within the park Understand the role of the park within central Hobart and the Macquarie Street precinct FUTURE DIRECTION 5 – Is highly accessible through efficient transport options Remove physical barriers to access where appropriate Recognise importance of surrounding transport use FUTURE DIRECTION 6 – Builds strong and healthy communities through diversity, participation and empathy Undertake a strong engagement program Facilitate activities & events within the park for all Pursue a high standard of design Apply relevant conclusions from Hobart 2010 – Public Spaces and Public Life, a city with people in mind Remove physical barriers to access where appropriate Interpret a variety of values & histories Promote safety through application of the contemporary principles of CPTED FUTURE DIRECTION 7 – Is dynamic, vibrant and culturally expressive Understand the role of the park within central Hobart Recognise the park is an important visitor node Recognise the relationship of the park to Tasmania’s ‘civil society’ Facilitate activities & events within the park for all
Table 1 Implications for master planning arising from Hobart 2025.
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2.3.2 Burra Charter Within the Cove, the amenity of Open Spaces is critical, and they must be well-connected to The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of other pedestrian spaces within the Cove. Cultural Significance) (the Burra Charter) provides guidance for the conservation and Other key implications from the Planning management of places of cultural significance. Scheme include:9 Developing physical, visual and activity The Burra Charter also provides invaluable links between central Hobart and the guidance on the co-existence of values, water’s edge along Elizabeth Street especially where conflicts exists. Promoting diversity in activities, including, The Master Plan has considered the Burra pedestrian activities, recreation and Charter directly, particularly the Charter’s Code tourism, along with civic and marine on Ethics of Coexistence in Conserving activities Significant Places, when considering options Improving pedestrian amenity and safety that differ from recommendations of the draft Recognising that the ‘wall’ of Sullivans Franklin Square Conservation Plan (see below). Cove runs along the Davey Street edge of the park 2.3.3 Historical Cultural Heritage The need for civic works and public street Act 1995 furniture to respond to known history of Franklin Square is listed on the Tasmanian the site and precinct. Heritage Register for its historic cultural Franklin Square is listed as a place of cultural heritage value. significance and archeological sensitivity. As a listed place, major works within Franklin Future works will require approval under the Square will need approval under the Planning Scheme, with particular regard to Tasmanian Historic Cultural Heritage Act 1995. these values. The Master Plan has been prepared in order to provide direction on the refurbishment, 2.3.5 Hobart 2010 management and use of the Franklin Square Following preparation of Hobart 2010 Public that best conserves these values. Spaces and Public Life – a city with people in mind (Hobart 2010), the City of Hobart 2.3.4 Sullivans Cove Planning prepared the Inner City Action Plan (ICAP). Scheme 1997 The ICAP contains a selection of key Within the Sullivans Cove Planning Scheme recommendations from Hobart 2010, and 1997 (the Planning Scheme), Franklin Square is outlines fifteen projects designed to attract within the Sullivans Cove Mixed Use Activity people and activity into Hobart – creating a Area. This Activity Area is Hobart’s major more dynamic city centre. tourist destination, has a readily identifiable image and is a focus for cultural activities.8
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Two of these projects, Action Project 02 (AP02) Several strategies promote the activation of Redesigning the Bus Mall and Action Project 03 open space through art programs and cultural (AP03) Pedestrian and Cyclist Access Elizabeth events, along with artwork ‘platforms’ Street are discussed in Section 4 of this Master providing for the temporary exhibition of a Plan. range of ephemeral, digital and text-based Action Project 13 (AP13) Activating Public works. Places is discussed in Section 6 this Master Plan. 2.3.7 Draft Franklin Square Conservation Plan 2007 Action Project 10 (AP10) seeks to improve ‘way finding’ within central Hobart and ensure that The draft Franklin Square Conservation Plan all people using the City have access to clear (the Conservation Plan) was commissioned to information. guide the City of Hobart in preparing a Master Plan for the park.
2.3.6 Creative Hobart 2013 It describes the park, along with its use, Creative Hobart 2013 provides a strategic historic development, social and aesthetic framework for City of Hobart’s cultural values. The draft Conservation Plan then programs. Objective 1.1 (Enhancing sense of provides a revised statement of the cultural place) and Objective 1.2 (Activating public significance of the park and recommended spaces) are particularly relevant to Franklin conservation policies. Square. While the Hobart City Council has not By enhancing sense of place, Creative Hobart endorsed the draft Conservation Plan, it seeks to enhance Hobart’s public spaces provides a thorough assessment of the park’s (natural and built) through acknowledging and cultural significance, and is a primary reference celebrating Hobart’s Indigenous and European document for the preparation of the Master heritage. More detailed strategies then seek Plan. to express diversity, Aboriginal cultural identity In preparing the Master Plan, all and promote art in public places. recommended policies have been considered, Outcome Area 2 (Activating public spaces) and where necessary, discussed in the relevant recognises that cultural activities do not have sections to follow. to take place in formal cultural facilities, and promoting the use of Hobart’s streets and parks as important venues.
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‘…a conspicuous ornament to one of the most prominent localities in the city.’
3. VISION
Based on initial public and stakeholder To celebrate and interpret the park’s engagement, the Vision for Franklin Square is: cultural significance, including the co- existence of differing perceptions of Franklin Square is Hobart’s civic park; a cultural significance. dignified place that tells of Hobart; its To define the civic character of the park people and their heritage. through the use of quality materials, It is a beautiful green refuge for use by finishes and management. all: a place to pass through; a To strengthen the landscape values of the destination to gather, relax and play; a park through carefully designed soft venue for cultural expression and landscape treatment and horticultural activity. practices. To review and progress key policies 3.1 Master Plan Objectives contained in the draft Franklin Square Based on the strategic context outlined above, Conservation Plan. and the findings of the initial engagement, a To integrate the recommendations of suite of Objectives were developed to guide Hobart 2010 – Public Spaces and Public Life preparation of the Master Plan. – a city with people in mind, and subsequent initiatives as they relate to The Objectives of the Franklin Square Master Franklin Square and its environs. Plan are: To provide safe and accessible spaces within the park for use by people of all ages – including youth, children and older people. To promote activation of the park. To conserve the park’s cultural significance – and that of its environs – and to integrate it with contemporary use.
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‘…it is a mistake to consider a master plan for Franklin Square in isolation.’
4. THE PARK WITHIN THE CITY
4.1 Discussion Within the City, Franklin Square is part of the A clear understanding of how Franklin Square Macquarie Ridge Civic Precinct that includes sits within the City is essential; it is also vital the southern edge of Macquarie Street, for the Master Plan to integrate with other between Murray Street and Dunn Place. strategic work being undertaken within the This Precinct contains a number of mid 19th City. Century buildings that have continuously been As one community member accurately used for ‘civic’ functions (i.e. public offices and observed: governance).
‘It is a mistake to consider a master plan for Governor Macquarie first mooted Hobart’s Franklin Square in isolation. It is essential to ‘civic precinct’ in his 1811 plan for colonial plan its future within a wider redevelopment Hobart. Centered on what is now Franklin of the City centre and its connection to Square, Macquarie proposed a large public Sullivans Cove waterfront’ square named Georges Square:
The extent of this Master Plan is Franklin ‘On the Square it is intended at some future Square, and the future refurbishment of the period to erect a Church and Court House or park has considered contemporary initiatives Town Hall and a Main Guard. It is also delivering change elsewhere in central Hobart intended that a Public market, under proper to the greatest extent possible. regulations, shall be held in the centre of it every Saturday … the Square likewise, as it Similarly, much of the cultural significance of consists of an extensive area, will answer for Franklin Square cannot be considered in a Public Garrison Parade.’ isolation, and is derived from the relationship At least until 1817 the area was referred to as between the park, its environs and the people ‘the square’; and while Georges Square was of Hobart. never fully realised, the surrounding civic buildings, and civic use of the area helped establish a civic identity for the precinct.
Figure 5 Franklin Square once had a much closer relationship to the adjoining Treasury Office, for a time presenting as the buildings ‘forecourt’ [Collin Denison].
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Figure 6 – Franklin Square in the City.
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Similarly, Macquarie and Davey Streets are The Macquarie Street ridge is a prominent major arterial routes that carry large numbers topographic feature leading up from Sullivans of vehicles along two boundaries of the park Cove, with the steep bank down from the (28,500 and 37,200 vehicles per day Davey Street edge being part of the original respectively).14 escarpment around Sullivans Cove. Located on the main pedestrian spine between Commanding views over Sullivans Cove were central Hobart and Sullivans Cove, Franklin once available from the ridge, hence its choice Square is exposed to a far greater number of for the early officers camp. The large buildings potential visitors that it was in the 19th along Davey Street now limit these views. Century; with them, come a much greater However, glimpses of the Cove are available diversity of interests, demands and uses. over the Elizabeth Street amenities, and the Many of these pedestrians move from the City chamfered edge of the Executive Building does to the Cove along the edges of, and diagonally reveal Battery Point’s St Georges Church from through, Franklin Square. Therefore, the park the western edge of Franklin Square. has also become an important route for Similarly, the view into the park for those pedestrian movement within the City. travelling along Davey and Macquarie Streets – or from adjoining office buildings – remains an important part of the City’s streetscape.
Other aspects of the City have also changed around the park, and these changes have unavoidable consequences for the park. In the first instance, there are now far more people within Hobart: in 1860, Tasmania had a population of
~90,000, and Hobart 19,00010 Figure 7 For many, Franklin Square is an important in 2011, Tasmania had a population of pedestrian route between Sullivans Cove and central 11 ~495,000 and the greater Hobart had Hobart [Richard Jupe]. grown to approximately ~170,000.12 Of all the purposes for visiting Franklin Square, As an indication of the number of people now ‘to pass through’ was the most commonly passing by Franklin Square, Hobart 2010 identified. Overall, survey participants recorded 7,020 pedestrians in the nearby considered the connecting pathways as Elizabeth Bus Mall; 3,474 on Elizabeth St important as the mature trees, reflecting how (between Davey and Morrison Streets); and the majority of park visitors use Franklin 1,850 on Davey Street between Elizabeth and Square as part of a route through the City, 13 Argyle during a single day in summer. rather than a standalone destination.
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Figure 8 - Several ICAP projects have a direct influence upon Franklin Square, particularly AP02 and AP 03.
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The layout of the City has also changed, which The proximity to bus services and removal in turn influences the park’s use and activity: of the park’s perimeter fence mean that the park is a popular waiting area for bus The loss of the upper Davey Street services The surfacing and line marking of footpath (1950s), removal of the perimeter the laneway (in front of the Treasury fencing and corner gates (1944), and building) formalises its role as a car park construction of the central Macquarie through. Street entrance (1940s) suggest the park is
often a de facto footpath rather than the The construction of multistory office secluded promenade it once was. buildings in the immediate vicinity bring more people seeking a breakout location The widening of the Macquarie Street for lunch, or travelling through Franklin roadway (1950s) and reduction of its Square to nearby destinations. southern footpath means some of the subtle symmetry of the original layout is There are discussions around a number of ICAP lost, as well as diminishing the position of projects that may also have a significant the King Edward VII statue. influence upon the role of Franklin Square in The relocation of the Premier’s office from the City: the Franklin Offices to the Executive Action Project 02 (AP02) Redesigning the Building has refocused much of Hobart’s Bus Mall – proposes a safer system to civil protest from Franklin Square to catch the buses, reduced risk of accidental Parliament Lawns. injury, improved access for all, a modern Traffic noise on Macquarie and Davey lighting scheme and promotion of Streets impacts upon the seclusion and appropriate retail establishments. This ambience of the park, and competes with would be the first stage in the upgrading of public speaking and private conversations the public transport system. The bus stops alike. along the edges of Franklin Square can only be addressed when a more efficient
operational model can be tested and introduced.
Figure 9 Franklin Square is a prominent feature within the central Hobart townscape. Figure 10 Franklin Square is a prominent feature within the Hobart townscape [Richard Jupe].
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Action Project 03 (AP03) Pedestrian and 4.2 Key Issues Cyclist Access Elizabeth Street - proposes A number of key issues have been identified to make Elizabeth Street as a vibrant, regarding the connections between Franklin active spine to the city, and continue to Square and its environs, these include: grow Sullivans Cove as a welcoming destination. Specifically, AP03 seeks to i. The treatment adjoining streetscapes and widen footpaths on both sides of Elizabeth the perimeter of Franklin Square does not Street below Macquarie Street, and reflect the civic nature of the Macquarie redesign traffic lanes to improve Street ridge, particularly the relationship movement and safety. between the different early developments The 2013 Stage 1 Light rail Business Case such as the Town Hall, Franklin Square and (DIER) – examined a number of terminus Treasury Offices. locations for a light rail service in central ii. The prominence of the Macquarie Street Hobart. The Business Case identifies ridge as a ‘civic precinct’ has been eroded Elizabeth Street (between Franklin Square by changes to the use and development of and the Town Hall) as the preferred 15 land on and around the ridge: terminus. o greater height of development within the Cove weakens the topography of the ridge o cessation of some civic uses from the area (i.e. loss of the Premier’s office and relocation of protests to Parliament lawns) o utilitarian nature of bus queuing.
iii. In some places, current traffic arrangements and road developments have eroded some culturally significant values of the park: o the widening of Macquarie Street and loss of the streets trees within the footpath has affected the alignment and symmetry of the park o the contra flow bus lane in Macquarie Street encroaches upon the historically wider footpath adjacent Figure 12 Elizabeth Street to the park, and compromises the setting of the King Edward VII statue Figure 11 Both AP03 and the light rail proposals are focused on the Elizabeth St [Richard Jupe].
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o the 1950s widening of Davey Street places greater reliance upon Franklin Square to deliver a more ‘utilitarian’ pedestrian route along Davey Street between Murray and Elizabeth Streets. iv. The scope of AP02 (Redesigning the Bus Figure 13 The appreciation of Franklin Square’s values is Mall) could have a significant impact on often limited to those readily portrayed to visitors ‘as they pass through’ [Newspix/Kim Eiszele]. the fabric and cultural significance of Franklin Square, including: 4.3 Recommendations o future changes to the level of activity within Franklin Square associated In response to these issues, there are a with bus passengers number of opportunities recommended for o future need for the Macquarie Street Franklin Square: contra flow bus lane i. Support a consistent approach to o future use, capacity and form of bus streetscapes throughout the Macquarie shelters along Macquarie and Street Civic Ridge, including lighting and Elizabeth Streets. pavement treatments commensurate with v. The scope of AP03 (Pedestrian and Cyclist the area’s cultural significance and civic Access Elizabeth Street) and the light rail role. proposal could have a significant impact on ii. Retain views from Franklin Square to the fabric and cultural significance of Battery Point and Sullivans Cove. Franklin Square, including: o potential changes to the treatment of iii. Enhance the curtilage of the King Edward the Elizabeth Street boundary such as VII statue in Macquarie Street through reducing the road width and reconstruction of the wider footpath and increasing the footpath width kerb bulbing. o streetscaping to improve the visual iv. Retain key pedestrian connections through and physical connection along Franklin Square and improve their Elizabeth Street from the central accessibility where possible. Hobart to the waterfront.
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v. In the short term, if bus shelters are to vii. If lower Elizabeth Street (between remain in Macquarie Street, it is Macquarie and Davey Streets) is to recommended they be redesigned to become the focus of public transport better respond to the cultural significance services (i.e. bus or light rail), the of Franklin Square, and the Civic Ridge recommended directions are: more broadly, including: o supporting activation, passive o higher quality design (i.e. high surveillance and guardianship of transparency, quality materials, Elizabeth Street through quality lighting, modern signage, redevelopment and reuse of the more seating and adequate shelter lower section of the Elizabeth Street from wind and rain) amenities o integration with other streetscape o clear delineation of the boundary furnishings and treatments. between the ‘park’ (Franklin Square) vi. In the long term, if buses are to be largely and the ‘street’ ( Elizabeth Street) – as removed from Macquarie Street, it is further erosion of this boundary may recommended that: impact upon the ‘Gardenesque’ o the Macquarie Street contra flow principles of the park’s design lane is removed and the Macquarie St o clear differentiation the ‘older’ park footpath reconstructed to its original from any ‘newer ‘landscaped areas width (aligned with the kerb outside developed in adjoining streets. the Macquarie St treasury building viii. Through collaboration with the owner of and Town Hall) the Treasury Building, strengthen the o street trees are installed on the same connection from the park across the axis as the King Edward VII statue laneway to the Offices. This may include: o bus shelters and seating ‘insets’ are o progressive repaving of the laneway removed from the Macquarie Street with materials consistent to those edge, and the sandstone footings used within Franklin Square along the park’s historic boundary o progressive reduction in the fencing alignment are reconstructed. and landscaping that currently separates the park from the roadway o facilitation of events and activities that make use of both the roadway and park as a temporary venue.
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‘…a monument to Franklin, whose ‘eminent & illustrious character’ was so well known.’
5. CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE 5.1 Discussion The draft Franklin Square Conservation Plan provides a broader assessment of the park’s Cultural significance refers to aesthetic, values consistent with the Burra Charter (see historic, scientific, social or spiritual value for Appendix 1). past, present or future generations, and may be embodied in the place itself, its fabric, This expanded Statement of Significance not setting, use, association, meanings, records, only captures the three values described related places or related objects. Importantly, above, but recognises a broader range of places may have a range of values for different values than those currently recorded in the individuals or groups. 16 Register, including: Historic value associated with colonial Franklin Square’s listing statement for the Hobart – including archeological values of Tasmanian Heritage Register concludes:17 the area occupied in the first days of ‘This park is of historic heritage significance Collins’ arrival, Georges Square 1811 – because its townscape and social c.1817 and by Government House up to associations are regarded as important to 1859. the community’s sense of place. Historic value associated with Sir John Franklin Square is of historic heritage Franklin and Lady Jane Franklin – including significance because of its ability to demonstrating the community’s response demonstrate the principal characteristics of a to Franklin’s term as governor and the Victorian inner city park. news of his death. Franklin Square is of historic heritage significance because it has the potential to yield important information, of an archaeological nature, that may contribute to a greater understanding of Tasmania’s history.’
Figure 14 An 1897 drainage plan showing the late 18th Century layout of Franklin Square [Metropolitan Drainage Plan Sheet 11, 1897]. Franklin Square Master Plan Page | 17
Aesthetic and historic values associated with a civic garden – including a strong axial symmetry, the gardenesque style using classical and more picturesque techniques, the high aesthetic values associated with the form of the aging trees and remnant areas with a garden like quality. Aesthetic value of the central ovoid area – this includes the paved ovoid surrounded by trees, statue of Sir John Franklin and classically shaped water basin that are highly valued by Hobart residents and by Figure 16 Franklin Square has significance for its long visitors. association with civic activities, including this pro-dam Historic value of the Macquarie Ridge civic rally during the 1980s [Newspix/Leigh Winburn]. precinct – including its role as a forecourt The relationship and meaning of Franklin to the Franklin Square Offices and in a less Square to Tasmanian Aborigines featured in direct sense to the Hobart Town Hall along many discussions. Often much of this with the precinct’s general consistency discussion centered on a direct response to the with the intent of Governor Macquarie’s statues of William Crowther and John Franklin; town plan of 1811. and the feelings of anger, sadness, and regret Social value associated with its continuity that they elicit. of use and the identity of Hobart and Sullivans Cove – including the continuity of The statue of Sir John Franklin reminds many use as an accessible open space within of how in 1838, the Franklins ordered that Hobart, visited by residents and visitors for Mary – a young Aboriginal girl they met at almost 150 years, its social value as the Wybalenna – be sent to Hobart. In Hobart she setting for routine life events, incidental was renamed Mathinna, re-educated and then visits and the location of community abandoned when the Franklins were recalled 18 events, political rallies and peace vigils. to England in 1843. Historic value associated with strategic Similarly, the statue of Dr William Crowther defence importance – including the site of reminds many of how he was instrumental in air raid shelters during World War 2 and the desecration of the body of William Lanne potential archeological remains. following his death.19 Both events are real, cannot be dismissed and their impact cannot be understated.
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Yet these events also hint at different stories Figure 16 details the elements within Franklin of Tasmanian Aborigines with very real Square according to their cultural significance; connections to the immediate environs of including whether they detract from significant Franklin Square and Sullivans Cove. values.
For example, Mathinna spent four of her Clearly there are a number of elements, such childhood years living in Government House – as the central ovoid, which are of very high a property that once sprawled across the land significance and should be preserved. now occupied by Franklin Square, Elizabeth However, there is also an argument for Street and the Town Hall – right in the heart of modifying or removing those elements that Hobart. have both a lower significance and detract from the ‘core’ values identified in the Similarly, William Lanne is also closely Statement of Significance. connected to the park and it surrounds. Lanne worked on whaling boats berthed in the Cove; Yet some elements, such as the chessboard, his body was desecrated by Dr William while detracting from the park’s Victorian Crowther (who is now immortalised in bronze), origins, still have some significance due to their and was finally buried in the cemetery 300m more contemporary social value. Davey St, that is now St Davids Park.20 Considerable effort has been made to The bronze statues of colonial men not only understand the historic values of the Franklin remind many of their darker actions, but could Square. Yet the park now exists within 21st also provide a toehold from which other Century Hobart; and the City and its people stories of Hobart and its people could be told have changed, as has their knowledge, their in Franklin Square, not just heroic expeditions expectations and their needs. and professional services rendered. As such, many park users felt that the historic fabric was but one element of cultural significance; and other values of cultural significance, such as aesthetics and continuing use, may counter the simple reconstruction of a Victorian era park. Rather than seeking to recreate the Franklin Square as it once was, many people expressed a need to first provide for contemporary use, and achieve this in a manner that conserved cultural significance of the park.
Figure 17 - The area now developed as Franklin Square was once occupied by the original Government House directly above the Sullivans Cove shoreline [credit TBC].
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Figure 18 - Cultural significance of elements within Franklin Square.
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For example, discussions regarding 5.2 Key Issues reconstruction of the 1890s wrought iron The key issues regarding cultural significance fence often focused on a broader question of of the park can be summarised as: whether or not the park should be fenced, rather than its historic value. ix. The physical layout, furnishings and treatments within the park do not reflect For many, if a fence was necessary or the cultural significance of Franklin Square. desirable, it followed that its design should conserve cultural significance. Reconstruction x. Subsequent additions and alternations to of the 1890s fence (or indeed other historic the park detract from its overall fabric) only to conserve heritage values, presentation and obscure highly significant received only limited support. elements.
Discussions suggests that while people xi. Some original elements from the 1900- recognise that the many of the trees and 1930 Reference Period that are important bronze statues are important, few visitors to the integrity of the presentation of the understand why those elements are of value. park have been removed or relocated.
Therefore, many visitors expressed a desire to xii. Interpretation of the park’s cultural know more about the park, its history, and significance is inadequate and focuses associated values. simply upon historical events from a Contemporary approaches to interpretation go particular era, all portrayed from a single well beyond signage, and the best converge perspective. Little – if anything – is made around complementary strategies to activate of the broader values that are entwined and furnish public spaces. with that history. Critically, nothing is told of the Mouheneenner people and their relationship with Sullivans Cove, or the known relationships between Sir John Franklin or Dr William Crowther and Tasmanian Aborigines.
Figure 19 Franklin Square was extensively modified in the 1940s to provide air raid shelters for Hobart [Australian War Memorial ID 051461].
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5.3 Recommendations o detailing of the corner entries to acknowledge a more definite entry to In response to these issues, there are a the park – through pavement, number of opportunities recommended for planting or signage. Franklin Square: iii. Conserve the cultural significance of the i. Preservation of significant fabric within the park by reconstructing (possibly restoring) park where its setting is intact, including significant fabric (including the removal of the: works that detract from cultural o Sir John Franklin statue, lower basin, significance). Opportunities include: central ovoid area and path layout o restoration of a section of historic o Dr William Crowther statue fencing along the Macquarie St o King Edward VII statue (Macquarie boundary as an interpretative feature Street) o reconstruction of perimeter beds and o This includes the ongoing more complex landscape planting maintenance of statuary, bronze o removal of the Macquarie Street work, fountain hydraulics and entry pergola, wishing well and electrics. speakers’ lectern. ii. Conserve the cultural significance iv. Provide more diverse interpretation of the associated with the mid to late 18th park’s cultural heritage – particularly Century establishment period for the park Aboriginal heritage – and utilise a variety by: of approaches and media that target a o retaining the central ovoid area, Sir broad age range of visitors. Such John Franklin statue and fountain approaches may include: basin as the central feature within the o subtle use of landscape design park o content of event programming o investigating whether the central area o public art commissions and can be reconstructed to its original installations larger size o installations that are reversible and o reconstructing or referencing of the do not alter significant fabric (such as of the Macquarie Street perimeter projections and sound) path o greater provision of information o reducing the prominence of the ‘offsite’ – including the City of Hobart Macquarie Street entry through a website more symmetrical layout, removing o possible interpretation of the pergola and pavement detailing archeological fabric revealed during o restoring the path layout by removal future works. of the extension of the Elizabeth Street axial path (adjacent the toilet)
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o chess board v. Acknowledge the cultural significance of o ancillary infrastructure such as the park through use of a more considered balustrading, handrails and tactile palette of materials and finishes that markers. embodies a contemporary approach to design and materials, yet reference the vi. Undertake specific archaeological historic context within which they sit. investigations or monitoring of areas likely Opportunities for such an approach to contain Lieutenant Gunning’s cottage include: and the Office wing of the original o furniture such as seating, rubbish bins Government House. Such work may and lighting inform detailed landscape design, reveal o hard landscaping, in particular the interpretation opportunities as well as central area paving, pathways and minimise adverse impacts on such values. walling
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‘…around the monument will be planted with a selection of choice shrubs and flowers’
6. SOFT LANDSCAPE 6.1 Discussion serve to counter further simplification of the soft landscape. Colonial gardens were often mixes of picturesque, French formal and gardenesque styles, and the lines between them were The draft Conservation Plan urges for the 21 frequently blurred. While the planting of reconstruction of a more complex landscape, Franklin Square was clearly informed by the and advocates against further erosion of the gardenesque style of the period, fashions in ‘gardenesque design’. However, many garden design changed from the initial planting Victorian era horticultural practices are of the park, through the reference period, to unlikely to prove satisfactory if they were to be th the early 20 Century. reconstructed in present times. While formally named a ‘square’, it is clear that For example, the lawn areas are highly valued from its inception Franklin Square was to be a for rest and relaxation, and replacement of park; surviving plantings and historic photos large lawn areas with dense plantings would reveal that Franklin Square had subtle impede this use. symmetrical layout, with some formal Furthermore, dense and secluded understory perimeter planting and beds comprising bold planting is unlikely to satisfy contemporary forms and striking foliage. demands regarding public safety and it is ‘Phyllomania’ (abundant or excessive leaves difficult to re-establish a dense understory and foliage) was common, and the popularity below what is now a mature canopy. of conifers and subtropical plantings were a part of this lust for foliage. Floral displays and formal parterres also went in and out of vogue. Many plants were sourced from the Royal Society’s Gardens (later to become the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens) and Port Arthur.
Although the park’s landscaping is now much simpler, the soft landscaping – notably the remnant beds, mature canopy and rolling lawns – are highly valued by the community. Figure 20 Franklin Square once featured much denser The cultural significance associated with the plantings and greater species diversity [Hobart, Archives Office of Tasmania (PH30/1/2716]. park as an ‘civic garden’, along with the high contemporary value placed upon the trees, lawns and shrubs by the community, must all
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Figure 21 Franklin Square Tree Reference Plan.
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6.3 Recommendations In response to these issues, there are a number of opportunities recommended for Franklin Square:
i. Develop a planting plan to conserve the park’s landscape structure. The planting plan is to be based on the following directions: o Figure 22 The statue of Sir john Franklin was set amongst Prepare a tree succession plan that a densely planted rockery where the current upper basin details the phased removal and of the fountain is located [‘Public Buildings’ - Hobart, replanting of canopy trees to Archives Office of Tasmania (PH30/1/93)]. maintain a mature canopy presence over time. 6.2 Key Issues o Retain the original tree planting A number of key issues have been identified structure from the 19th Century – regarding the soft landscaping within Franklin replacing canopy trees in the same Square, these include: location (as far as practical) so as to retain the ‘double ring’ of canopy i. The similar age of the canopy trees means trees (as shown on Figure 19 Tree that the retention of a mature canopy will Reference Plan). require the removal (while still relatively o Replace canopy trees with the same healthy) and replanting of individual trees. species. This is particularly relevant along the o Partial reconstruction of horticultural Davey Street edge. displays around central area. ii. The draft Conservation Plan identifies a Apply Crime Prevention Through key issue to be the simplification of the Environmental Design (CPTED) park’s landscaping relative to the 1910- principles to plant placement. The 1930 reference period. This simplification shrubs around existing gathering has eroded the cultural significance of the points and movement routes should park, particularly the sense of enclosure be pruned or removed e.g. Camellia afforded the central area. sp. at toilet stairs, Choisya ternata at the Davey/Macquarie Street corner iii. There is no agreed plant palette or design entry to the park. principles that outline ‘what happens’ when a planting (such as a mature canopy tree) needs replacement.
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ii. Develop a plant schedule for future plant iii. Other key opportunities that could be replacements based on the following pursued as part of the refurbishment of principles: the park include: o Species should comprise those o replace the southern replacement planted in Hobart during the 1863 memorial Oak (Macquarie reference period and derived from Street frontage) with a sapling grown known reference material including from the seed - or cutting - of its historic photos, Royal Tasmanian northern partner Botanic Gardens species lists and o relocate the replacement tree to the nurserymen catalogues from the perimeter of the park. period. o Expose the Davey Street retaining o Species should demonstrate intense wall so as to provide a formal edge to botanic interest through a mix of the park. foliage and flowers from around the world. A rich mix of annuals, bulbs, herbs, succulents, natives, conifers and other shrubs and groundcovers should be used. o Plants that are poisonous or can cause allergic reactions (e.g. Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea, Nerium oleander) should not be planted. o Plants with seed pods or debris that could be used as missiles should not be planted. Figure 23 The original rockery planting was o Plants that are known environmental representative of the gardenesque style featuring weeds in Tasmania (e.g. Pampas intense botanic interest through a mix of foliage and Grass (Cortaderia species), Tree of flowers from around the world [Collin Denison]. Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) should
not be planted. o Retain key views to Battery Point and Sullivan’s Cove.
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‘…of such picturesque importance and occupies so central a position too much thought and care cannot be given to its reconditioning.’
7. HARD LANDSCAPE
7.1 Discussion Hobart 2010 also suggests the presentation of 23 The need to do any work within Franklin Hobart’s public spaces could be improved: Square was questioned by some visitors; to ‘The public spaces need a breath of fresh air. many, the park ‘was fine the way it is’. When They must be more attractive and asked to comment on the current facilities and recreational. The recreational spaces must presentation of Franklin Square, the majority be the sparkling pearls in the network – that of survey participants were generally satisfied. unify and intensify the experiences. Others, echoing both earlier sentiments that Improve the quality of green spaces to encourage recreation within the city and as ‘… too much thought and care cannot be given assets for residents and neighbourhood to its reconditioning’22 and concerns expressed identities. Strengthen the programming and in the draft Conservation Plan, questioned invitations of the green space.’ whether the current presentation was adequate in light of its location, cultural significance and usage.
Describing the park as a ‘dog’s breakfast’, one Hobart resident expressed their concern that the different elements and furnishings do not sit comfortably alongside one another, detract from the park’s amenity and do not furnish it with a clear identity (see Figures montages).
Put simply, it was argued that the park does not come together ‘as a whole’ to reflect its Figure 24 During the early 1900s, Franklin Square cultural significance. featured a series of long, curved seats around the central area and some paths [Post card collection, Tasmanian More pragmatically, other public input focused Library, ADRI au-7-0016-125396226]. on the relationship between the park’s Significant hard landscaping and furniture physical elements and their use; better lighting items within the park, such as lighting and to allay safety concerns, more seating for paving, are showing clear signs of wear, and lunchtime visitors, eliminating unnecessary are due for replacement by 2020. With a steps to improve access, and new paving that replacement value of over $1.3M (excluding doesn’t snag the heel of your work shoes. the statues and Elizabeth Street amenities), future refurbishment of the park’s hard landscape warrants considerable thought and care.
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Figure 25 Hard landscaping within the Park comprises inconsistent styles and some is due for replacement in the near future.
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The changing context of the park has affected iii. Key areas of the park, particularly the roof how the hard landscape is now used, and what of the amenities building, are not is expected of it. accessible to people with limited mobility. The park’s path network now has a much Other interventions to improve access and greater role in City pedestrian movement than mobility, as detailed in Australian Standard it once did. Original elements, such as narrow 1428, have not been installed. entry gates, perimeter fencing and gravel iv. Materials used in the pathways, surfaces, all conflict with how the park is now particularly those within the central area, used in a 21st Century Hobart. are failing and starting to detract from the Similarly, while the Elizabeth Street amenities presentation of the park. may detract from the Victorian era layout, they v. The large extents of brick retaining walls are the only public toilets on the Elizabeth along the Elizabeth Street linear path and Street pedestrian spine and should be retained alongside the Long Steps, are visually due to this broader role within the city. prominent, and detract from the aesthetic 7.2 Key Issues values of the park. A number of key issues have been identified vi. There is a profusion of elements with regarding the assets and facilities within varying design (see Figure XX and XX). The Franklin Square, these include: different park elements detract from a presentation of the park as a cohesive i. The choice of materials used in the central whole and, in some cases, detract from the area, pathways (including steps) and values of the park (i.e. wishing well, retaining walls, do not reflect the cultural pergola, chess board, bins, signage). significance or civic quality of the park. vii. Current lighting of the park does not meet ii. The subtle symmetry of the original 1860s contemporary standards and is likely to path layout – a key element of the values adversely impact upon visitor amenity, associated with the Victorian era particularly perceptions of safety. landscape design – has been eroded by the loss of the Macquarie Street perimeter viii. Signage within the park is inconsistent with path and inclusion of the Elizabeth and the cultural significance of the park, and Macquarie Street entrances and paths. the existing interpretive signage is incomplete and in poor condition.
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Figure 26 Furniture within Franklin Square and the adjoining streetscape is of an inconsistent style, and some (like the lighting and signage) is in poor condition. Page | 32 Franklin Square Master Plan
ix. The fountain hydraulics and electrical iii. Improve equity of access within the park components, while functional, are nearing where practical (recognising the 30 years old and their efficiency, topographic constraints arising from its sustainability, functionality, reliability and ridge top position)– particularly: maintenance could be improved through o removing the steps at the Elizabeth use of modern technology. St/Macquarie St entry o providing at grade access onto the x. There is a lack of shelter from wind and upper roof area of the Elizabeth rain within the park that impedes its year Street amenities round use. o address contemporary requirements for tactile marking where 7.3 Recommendations necessary(as per AS1428) - ensuring In response to these issues, there are a such treatments are sympathetic to number of opportunities recommended for the park’s values Franklin Square: o provision of handrails where appropriate. i. Adopt a materials palette that portrays the dignity and civic nature of the park. Such iv. Conserve the cultural significance of the materials could include: park through restoration and o The predominant sandstone and reconstruction of elements consistent with muted tones of the Macquarie Street the 1900-1930 Reference Period: precinct o removal of the pergola as it obscures o a non-modular surface that features a the Sir John Franklin statue, confuses ‘gravel like’ appearance for the historic periods, impacts upon central area, pathways and steps symmetrical layout, and places too o coloured in situ concrete (sandstone greater emphasis on the Macquarie colour) with appropriate capping or Street entry formal sandstone walls for those o relocation of the chess board to new retaining walls to be kept. position in Speakers Corner to compliment the park’s axial symmetry ii. Reduce the extent of retaining walls to o removal of the speakers lectern and minimise visual impact – yet retaining the its replacement with interpretation of walling along the Elizabeth Street pathway use of the park for public protest for seating (utilising a more sympathetic o removal of wishing well material). o restoration (in part) of the wrought iron period fence (1891-1944) period as an interpretative feature along part of the Macquarie Street boundary.
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v. Undertake a plumbing and electrical o low walls to act as seating in lower assessment of the fountain to inform asset lawn quadrant facing the Elizabeth replacement works. Along with Street amenities. improvements to routine operation, a viii. Design a new suite of park lighting secondary component of this assessment nominally to a P6 or P7 subcategory based should provide advice on how the jets and on AS/NZ 1158 Lighting for Roads and lighting could be augmented to provide Public Places, recognising: greater interaction, interpretation and o Franklin Square is primarily a variety in their operation. pedestrian space vi. Develop a coordinated suite of furniture o the need to reduce the high for the park– and its adjoining streetscape perceived and real risk of crime – the design of which references the within the Franklin Square during the cultural significance of the park and evening contributes to a high quality in the o the desire to enhance the presentation of the park. The suite could presentation or prestige of the park include: o the relatively high activity levels o Signage – including interpretive, within the park, and the desire to advisory and regulatory further activate the park o Lighting o the need to reduce and realign the o Barriers and bollards number of lighting poles (and o Seating structures) used within the park o Balustrades and handrails o use of contemporary technology to o Garbage bins. minimize power consumption and o David Shaw’s 1985 seating should be operating costs. used as reference for a new ‘family’ ix. Redevelop the Elizabeth Street amenities of seating that may include ‘long building roof, and its interface with the seats’ around some quadrants of the park, in order to provide: central area and some pathways. o improved access onto the roof area vii. Investigate the provision of more seating and reduce anti-social behavior within the park, the opportunities for opportunities associated with the which include: current access path o long seats around the central area o additional seating and possibly o new seating in around the chess shelter, to encourage more regular board in speakers corner (integrated use with games piece storage) o services suitable for use of the roof o additional seating on the roof of the area as a small events venue (such as Elizabeth Street amenities building power and water outlets)
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o a clear view between the roof area o ‘pop up’ gallery or art installation and adjacent park area and Sullivans o visitor services, information or Cove waterfront booking & ticketing outlet. o additional interpretation of park xi. Investigate a higher level of cleansing and values and themes maintenance for the Elizabeth Street x. Redevelop the vacant lower half of the amenities in recognition of their central Elizabeth Street amenities building in location and high use. conjunction with ICAP AP03 for a use that xii. Investigate the feasibility of integrating can provide for greater activation, passive Water Sensitive Urban design (WSUD) surveillance and guardianship of the park features that capture and then reuse and Lower Elizabeth Street area. water onsite. Opportunities may include: o commercial food and beverage operation
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‘Freedom is the right to tell people what they do not want to hear’
8. ACTIVITY
8.1 Discussion This continuity of use for nearly 150 years is Franklin Square was laid out as a Victorian era one of the culturally significant values garden park. Yet there is a lingering ideal – identified in the draft Conservation Plan; which perhaps dating from Macquarie’s 1881 recognises the park’s social value as the setting concept of Georges Square – that Franklin for routine life events, incidental visits and a Square should be Hobart’s civic plaza. location of community events.
Many uses of Franklin Square; along with its A core objective of this Master Plan is to setting amongst grand civic buildings, have all integrate this contemporary use with the contributed to this notion that the park is conservation of cultural significance. To do so, Hobart’s civic plaza. Franklin Square should – where consistent with the conservation of cultural significance – The provision of a ‘speakers corner’ and provide for the broadening range of routine lectern (complete with George Orwell’s words and incidental uses now sought within the ‘Freedom is the right to tell people what they public spaces of a modern city. do not wish to hear’24), is also something anticipated in civic plazas – not 19th Century Within Hobart 2010 and throughout the garden parks. engagement program, the need for public spaces within Hobart for children was a strong While Gelh recorded a higher average number theme. Franklin Square is of interest to of staying activities during a summer weekday children; engagement activities highlighted the than nearby St Davids Park, Parliament Lawns fountain, trees, chessboard and fallen autumn and Princes Park, the type of activity recorded leaves as all providing free play opportunities in Franklin Square is focused on seating and for young visitors. standing. In many ways, how people currently use Franklin Square is remarkably consistent with its use recorded in historic images; public celebrations, protests and exhibitions, visitors playing draughts or chess, or simply relaxing and watching the fountain. How people use the park now – a place to wait for the bus, lunching with friends, visitors photographing the statue and fountain, or as a venue for cultural events – is much as it has Figure 27 Along with the chessboard, wishing well and low retaining walls, the fountain is a popular ‘free play’ always been. area of children [Richard Jupe].
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Figure 28 - Current activity areas within the Park. Page | 38 Franklin Square Master Plan
Yet the current interest in Franklin Square for children is more by good luck than good design. The current treatment of the park offers little that deliberately engages younger visitors to the park. Along with the obligatory ice cream shop, activities with children also revealed a clear interest in more colour – particularly flowers – and things that were interactive; a fountain you could make ‘go bigger’, a maze and a rollercoaster. While the installation of play equipment – or a roller coaster – is unlikely to prove consistent with the core values and setting of the park, a subtle layer of detailing, embedded within Figure 29 The ‘interactive’ nature of chess board – refurbished lighting, walling, pavements and having pieces to move and handle – means it remains of interpretation, provides scope to include strong interest to children [Newspix/Kim Eiszele]. elements that engage children. There are relatively simple changes to detailing Specifically, any refurbishment of the Elizabeth can be made to improve the accessibility of the Street amenities building roof may also park. More subtle changes such as seats with explicitly provide greater activity for children. armrests, tactile markers to indicate steps, smooth and even pavement surfaces and a This detailing, along with addressing higher standard of evening lighting, would all perceptions of safety and greater improve the accessibility of the Franklin programming, offers great opportunity for Square. Franklin Square to become a more welcoming and fun park for children. A major issue to be addressed in the Master Plan is the perception of safety within Franklin In addition to statutory requirements, as Square. Concerns regarding safety are real, Hobart’s civic park Franklin Square should and are reflected in a both Crime Risk demonstrate a high level of accessibility. Assessment of the park and the work of Hobart While its location on a ridgeline will always 2010 whereby; ‘inactive Franklin Square constrain the accessibility within the park to a creates an unsafe barrier on the way to the degree; the furnishings, materials and design night time activities at the harbor’.25 should not unnecessarily impede access to the Furthermore, over half of the survey park and its key elements. respondents generally felt safe during the day, but not during the evening.
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When events undertaken within Franklin 8.2 Key Issues Square were discussed, particularly the Ten A number of key issues have been identified Days on the Island ‘Pop up Furniture’ (2013) regarding the assets and facilities within and ‘Digital Odyssey’ (2010) events, or the City Franklin Square, these include: of Hobart’s Franklin2 concerts, people appreciated how such events activated the i. Little in Franklin Square has been explicitly park. provided for the enjoyment and interest of They also expressed a desire to see a more children and families. frequent program of events. ii. Vehicular noise levels within the park can The Master Plan and its recommendations for adversely impact upon the amenity of the refurbishment of the park can improve the park and its suitability for some activities functionality of the park as a venue and further and events. the activation of Hobart’s public spaces. iii. There is only limited passive surveillance of As an example, ensuring services are readily Franklin Square from adjoining properties available within the park, means events are outside of business hours, and the passive easier to undertake; and if easier, it may mean surveillance of Franklin Square from some events become more frequent. adjoining buildings may not be effective.
iv. Due to the majority of surrounding buildings being used for public offices, there is limited activation of Franklin Square from adjoining land uses particularly during evenings and weekends.
v. There are no ready available electricity outlets within the park for use during
temporary events. Therefore, power Figure 30 The 2010 Digital Odyssey installation, supply can be a constraint upon use of the particularly its interpretation of stories linked to the park, park for artistic and cultural events. was a popular example of the type of activity many people supported for Franklin Square ['Digital Odyssey', Craig Walsh, Franklin Square, Hobart, Ten Days on the Island 2011 – Image: Alistair Bett, f8 Photography© Courtesy of Ten Days on the Island].
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vii. There is a definite perception that Franklin ii. Ensure that the design of future works Square attracts anti-social behavior and within the park feature subtle detailing that it may be unsafe, particularly at night. (consistent with the park’s values) which The key contributors to crime risk within generate interest and activity for children. the park include: Initiatives may include: o inactive street frontages – particularly o the provision of age specific during evenings and weekends – interpretation within the park for whereby the park is surrounded by children offices and government buildings o interactive or operable features o the absence of a permanent retail within the park lighting, fountain presence, sporadic events, and and/or hard landscaping ephemeral managment and/or Police o diverse landscaping that includes presence, means there are few additional colour and interest, ‘guardians’ within the park – including flowers. particularly in the weekday peak afternoon period iii. Redesign the Elizabeth Street amenities o the poor visibility and narrow access building roof and its interface with the onto the roof area of the Elizabeth park, in order to provide a small outdoor Street amenities building means this venue space that can easily be used for area is often uninviting small to medium scale public events, o the poor standard of evening lighting performances and art installations. discourages evening pedestrian use. iv. Investigate opportunities to facilitate the viii. Unnecessary vehicular access into the park use of the park for artistic installations and during peak visitor times does erode the events through improved landscape design primacy of the park as a pedestrian space. and services (such as additional power outlets, Wi-Fi and/or feature lighting). 8.3 Recommendations In response to these issues, there are a number of opportunities recommended for Franklin Square: i. Retain traditional use of the park as an urban garden square, including use for small cultural events, while continuing to allow the use of Franklin Square as a site for protests.
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vi. Investigate opportunities to provide for vii. Ensure future works within the park additional activation, passive surveillance generally further the principles of Crime and guardianship within the park, this may Prevention through Environmental Design include: (CPTED), in particular works should seek o a increased formal presence within to: the park through maintenance o minimise concealment opportunities activities (such as a higher demand in and around the entrance to roof for horticultural maintenance) area of the Elizabeth St amenities o a commercial concession or license building and elsewhere providing for the use of the lower half o reinforce the public ownership of – of the Elizabeth Street amenities and free access to- to the roof area building (if redeveloped) Elizabeth Street amenities building o regular programming of the park and o improve lighting within the park to the refurbished Elizabeth Street enable greater facial recognition amenities building roof – such as the during the evening Franklin2 Concerts. o improve passive surveillance through increased formal and informal activity within the park – particularly during evenings and weekends.
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‘a beautiful green refuge for use by all’
9. CONCEPT PLAN
The recommended actions outlined within the Removal of built elements that detract preceding sections have been used to develop from the core values of cultural the Concept Plan for Franklin Square. The key significance within the park. Features features – or physical changes – illustrated by recommended for removal include the the Concept Plan include: Macquarie Street pergola, Wishing Well and Speakers Lectern. Replacement of existing pavement with an
exposed aggregate coloured concrete to Greater diversity in landscaping through reflect the original gravel surfacing and introduction of floral borders to the central muted sandstone colours of the buildings ovoid, low shrub beds behind the bus shelters on Macquarie Street and greater within the Macquarie Street Civic Ridge. diversity in the Macquarie Street bed. Reduction of retaining walls within the
park, and where retained for seating Redevelopment of the roof area of the (Elizabeth Street perimeter path) or Elizabeth Street amenities building and adjoining pathway area to provide at grade control of level changes, use of a formal sandstone walling. access, additional seating, shelter, and services to facilitate its use for small- Restoration of the original Victorian era medium performances. park layout through relocation of the
Chess Board to Speakers Corner, removal Redevelopment of the lower half of the of the Elizabeth Street linear path, Elizabeth Street amenities building for uses referencing of the original Macquarie that provide greater activation, passive Street liner path through soft landscaping surveillance and guardianship of that area. and pavement detailing, and detailing of Replacement of all failing assets such as the Macquarie Street entry to reduce its lighting, paving, interpretive signage and prominence. furniture. Replacement of the existing bitumen surfacing of the Treasury car park with a pavement consistent with that used within Franklin Square to strengthen the connection between these 2 heritage places.
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‘a beautiful green refuge for use by all’
APPENDIX 1 REVISED STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE
urban context. The relatively high intactness The draft Conservation Plan provides a broader of the layout and central area allow the Statement of Significance for Franklin Square values of the distinctive original design with than that currently included in the Tasmanian corner entries perimeter paths and a brief Heritage Register (THR). wide path into the central area to be This revised Statement captures the 3 values appreciated, although compromised at the described in the Register, and recognises a Macquarie and Elizabeth Street perimeter areas. The form of the aging trees broader range of values – perhaps spanning a contributes to the high aesthetic values of longer period – than that currently recorded in Franklin Square, as does the remnant areas 26 the Register. with a gardenlike quality on the Davey St ‘The area of Franklin Square has a direct boundary and to a lesser extent the area association with colonial Hobart. The Square near the Franklin Square Offices boundary. is located on the area occupied in the first The central area of Franklin Square with days of the settlement of Hobart by officers paved ovoid surrounded by trees, statue of tents, then early cottages and gardens, Sir John Franklin and classically shaped water Georges Square 1811 - c 1817 and by basin are highly valued by Hobart residents Government House up to 1859. Any and by visitors. The statue and water basin archaeological features and/or deposits that have been a focus of attention since the survive from this period will offer rare Square was opened. insights to this key period in the evolution of the State’s capital city. The Square is an integral part of the Macquarie Ridge civic precinct which extends Franklin Square was established as a setting along the south side of Macquarie Street for a memorial statue of Sir John Franklin from Murray Street to Dunn Place. It provides shortly after 1859. The Square and the statue a forecourt to the Franklin Square Offices and demonstrate the Hobart community’s in a less direct sense to the Hobart Town response to Sir John Franklin’s term as Hall. The existing civic precinct including governor and to news of his death. The Macquarie Street, Franklin Square and the Square has a strong association with Sir John administration use of buildings is consistent Franklin and his wife Lady Jane Franklin. in general direction with the town plan of The Square is an example of a civic garden. It Governor Macquarie 1811. was laid out with a strong axial symmetry achieved within the gardenesque style using classical and more picturesque techniques. The path layout, double ring of trees and enclosed central area create a sense of tranquility and of distance from the busy
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Franklin Square is an accessible open space within Hobart, visited by Hobart residents and visitors to the city for almost 150 years and has significance associated with continuity of use. It has social value as the setting for routine life events and incidental visits for a wide range of people and as the location of community events, political rallies and peace vigils, promotions and private events. Prominently located in Davey, Macquarie and Elizabeth Streets it is part of the identity of Hobart and Sullivans Cove for residents and visitors.
Franklin Square’s central location was of strategic defense importance as the site of air raid shelters during World War 2. Although subsequently filled in, evidence of the shelters may survive in archaeological contexts.
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‘a beautiful green refuge for use by all’
REFERENCES 11 Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2011). Basic Community Profile (Catalogue number 2001.0) Tasmania (6). Canberra: Commonwealth of Australia. 1 Gehl Architects. (2010). Hobart 2010 Public 12 Spaces and Public Life. Gehl Architects, Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2011). Basic Copenhagen. p.142-149. Community Profile (Catalogue number 2001.0) Hobart (UCL603001). Canberra: 2 Nicholls M., (Ed). (1997). The Diary of the Commonwealth of Australia. Reverend Robert Knopwood, 1803-183 : first 13 Chaplain of Van Diemen's Land. Tasmanian Gehl Architects. (2010). Op. Cit. p.110-141. Historical Research Association, Sandy Bay, 14 Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Tasmania.. Resources. (2011). Congestion in Greater 3 Ferndene Studio. (Decemeber 2012 (reprint)). Hobart - Response to Issues. State of Tasmania, Franklin Square Conservation Plan. Hobart: Hobart. p.8. Ferndene Studio. p.9. 15 ACIL Tasman. (2013). Stage 1 Light Rail 4 Ferndene Studio. (Decemeber 2012 (reprint)). Business Case. Department of Infrastructure, Franklin Square Conservation Plan – Appendix Energy and Resources, State of Tasmania, 1 Historic Development. p.3. Hobart.
16 5 Ferndene Studio. (Decemeber 2012 (reprint)). Australia ICOMOS Incorporated. (2000). The Franklin Square Conservation Plan. Op. Cit. Burra Charter: The Australian ICOMOS Charter p.10-11. for Places of Cultural Significance. Burwood: Australia ICOMOS Incorporated. p.2. 6 Ferndene Studio. (Decemeber 2012 (reprint)). 17 Appendix 1 Historic Development. p.7 Ferndene Studio. (Decemeber 2012 (reprint)). Franklin Square Conservation Plan. 7 Ferndene Studio. (Decemeber 2012 (reprint)). Op Cit. p.1. Appendix 1 Historic Development. p.7 18 Felton, H. (2005). The Companion to 8 Hobart City Council. (1997 (inc. amendments Tasmanian History. (Alexander, A. Ed.) Hobart: up t 19th Feb 2013)). Sullivans Cove Planning Centre for Tasmanian Historical Studies. p.206. Scheme. Hobart City Council, Hobart. p. 42-47. 19 McFarlane, I. (2005). The Companion to 9 Hobart City Council. (1997). Op. Cit. pp. 105- Tasmanian History. (Alexander, A. Ed.). Op. Cit. 113. p.229. 10 Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2006). 20 Lehman, G. (no date). Beneath the Still Australian Historical Population Statistics cat. Waters: Connecting with Tasmania's Deep no. 3105.0.65.001. Canberra: Commonwealth History in Sullivans Cove. Unpublished notes of Australia. provided by author.
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21 Hurburgh, M., (1986). The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens, 1818-1986: a History in Stone, Soil and Superintendents, Shearwater Press, Sandy Bay, Tas.
22 Ferndene Studio. (Decemeber 2012 (reprint)). Franklin Square Conservation Plan Op. Cit. p.29.
23 Gehl Architects. (2010). Op. Cit. p.103.
24 Orwell, G., (1972). ‘Freedom of the Press’ in The Times Literary Supplement, (September 15, 1972). Available http://www.orwell.ru/library/novels/Animal_F arm/english/efp_go 25 November 2013.
25 Gehl Architects. (2010). Op. Cit. p.61.
26 Ferndene Studio. (Decemeber 2012 (reprint)). Franklin Square Conservation Plan Op. Cit. 31.
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