VICTORIA PARK RESTORATION, STAFFORD

HLF Round 2 Application 11.1 Capital Works RIBA Stage 3 Report February 2017

Contents

1.0 Introduction 4.7 Education Centre 1.1 Background Information 4.8 Display Glasshouse 1.2 HLF Funding 4.9 Bowls Pavilion 1.3 Condition 4.10 Toilet Block and Park Office 1.4 Partnerships 4.11 Sensory Garden 4.12 Thatched Shelter 2.0 Site Context 4.13 Catering Facility 2.1 Planning Policy 4.14 Amphitheatre 2.2 History 4.15 Mottram Shelter 2.3 Access and Circulation 4.16 Events Space 2.4 Trees 4.17 Bandstand 2.5 Ecology 5.0 Access and Movement 5.1 Access and Movement 3.0 Site Analysis and Concept 3.1 Site Analysis 6.0 Sustainability 3.2 Vision 6.1 Sustainability 3.3 Concept Design - Southern Section 3.4 Concept Design - Northern Section 7.0 Consultation 3.5 Education Centre Concept Design 7.1 Initial Consultation 3.6 Cafe Concept Design 7.2 Development Stage Consultation

4.0 Design Proposals 4.1 Masterplan 4.2 Mill Bank Gateway 4.3 Mottram Entrance 4.4 Mill Pond 4.5 Maintenance Depot 4.6 Aviary

February 2016 page 3

1.0 Introduction

18

6 6

6 11 74.76 6 ST MARYS GATE

74.80 5 74.47 53

74.73 73.20 River Ps

74.78 ST MARYS GROVE

GR 6

72.78 72.78 52 72.06 3 72.06 LP 73.05 74.81 74.24 74.63 74.23

73.20 73.13 Butterflies Stafford College Bank PH 74.33 ST CHADS PLACE

72.86 Bench 72.16 50 7 74.81 74.37 Day Nursery

73.01 Day Nursery Bin 74.70 73.20 74.35

1.1 Background Information Sow 72.96 72.98 72.15 74.73 Ancient

74.55 73.01 49

CASTLETOWN 72.78 Tarmac 73.19 72.07 74.55 Car Park St Mary's Church High

SP Car Park 76.25 Shelters 12

72.80 Stumps 74.60 House 74.32 75.05 72.27 72.91 SP 11 72.77 74.41 75.63 (Museum) 73.18 LP 74.73 EARL STREET S003 Bin Tarmac 74.311 76.40 74.46 74.71 Bin Bench BO 72.88

74.66 72.89 72.24 76.24 74.57 Bin Tarmac 73.16 72.89 Bank

2323 Post & Rail Fence 72.38 72.88 Conc Eave St Bertelins Church 46 74.50 89.33 74.49 73.16 72.96 76.24 12 71.69 74.55 72.87

72.84 (remains of) GREENGATE STREET SP 71.77 45 74.38 St Chads Church 73.17 74.39 76.46 74.54 72.76 76.13 71.91 74.39 73.16 72.89 El 74.56 County 76.22 72.77 74.29 8 War

71.79 72.80 Sub Skatepark74.76 76.02 74.37LP

2 Riverbank Mews Education 2 2 Riverbank Mews 72.78 Bench Bridgewood Sta Meml 71.93 73.15 72.77 72.84 74.27 Posts Stafford Borough Council has secured funding from the Heritage 74.34 Play Offices 71.97 Eave 72.57 73.14 74.36 House Bin 89.38 Bench Area 7 74.44 74.21 Bin S005 Swan 73.16 Garden of Remembrance Hall 75.110 THL

17 73.12 El 75.34 Eave 15 TIPPING STREET

74.40 75.06 91.72 1 Hotel 75.70

74.44 Bench

1 to 6 to 1

1 to 6 to 1 1 to 6 to 1 Sub Sta

73.15 Bin

Bench

6 3 73.16 2

74.45 Eave 2 Lottery Fund (HLF) under their Parks for People grant scheme 73.16 74.37 91.73

LP Eave 16

Posts 88.89 St MarysMews5 74.97

3

Bench 44

5

5 5 1 73.12 73.13 PRF Bench 4 SOUTH STREET ST MARYS PLACE 17 74.62 75.15 Broad Eye Building SOUTH STREET Bench 73.13 Shelter 74.66 73.18 Chambers 75.17 Bin 78.6m

Gy

73.99 (PH) 43a Bin 10 in order to develop a project which will return Victoria Park to the 73.16 1

PEEL STREET 73.09

74.59

LP 2 1 Victoria Park 5

11 73.16 Bin TENTERBANKS 43 74.56 74.19 18 STAFFORD Mkr Bench 73.20

Bin 74.33 72.22 TENTERBANKS 42 S004 78.3m 74.23 73.05 74.252 CHURCH Bank 74.65 spirit of its Edwardian design and ensure a lasting legacy for the Bench Eave 88.83 73.00 72.19 19a 74.75 73.16 17 73.06 Eave Victoria LB 17 88.90 PRF 25 Bench Square 74.84 Bin Bank Staffordshire Place

74.87 Posts 19 Bin 2

RAILWAY STREET 74.68 LANE LP 73.16 War 74.83 PH

S04A

1 20

74.845 WD 1

community of Stafford. The restoration of Victoria Park will not 1 74.74 Memorial 5 4

4 4 Tarmac THL ST 74.83 Shelter 74.63 Posts 75.02 75.15 Benches Eave 75.21 Rdge 73.14 74.43 88.87Eave Greengate BO Eave SP 77.18 92.96 PW 75.12 Bin TP Apartments 75.04 74.95 1 to 4 76.19 Bench 75.60 21 CBF Tarmac 73.09 Eave 74.43 77.02 LP Bench Bench 73.16 only seek to restore and repair the fabric of the park but will also 22 S006 74.395 9 9 73.15 23c

Eave 84.60 Gy Play Area Mill Court 10 74.29

73.17 Bench 37 23 Bench 48 El

47 23b 8 POST Eave Sub Sta enable wider community involvement and participation. Gy Bin 88.88 74.28 Bin LP 73.11 BO 44 73.17 BO RUSSEL STREET Bench Crown Court 35 SOUTH WALLS 75.00 32 36 37 38 Stmp 39 74.34 34 75.14 Bonham House 73.10

ED & Ward Bdy Bonham House Eave Rdge LB Posts 88.73

Rdge 74.35 (course of) 74.83 23 74.42 Bench

1 25

Gy 11

Eave 74.35 2

84.74 22

4 Town Wall

74.36 STREET

35 SOTHERBY HOUSE Eave Rdge MILL 5

SOTHERBY HOUSE 88.76 6

74.42 Tarmac

75.52 18 LB 17 S007 16 Almshouses 15 14 7 12 74.54 74.652 11 LP 1 to 8 73.15 1 to 8 75.80 SP Civic Centre The purpose of this document is to provide a broad overview of Eave Eave Chapel Rdge BO 1 87.08 FS 88.75

Rdge Eave 12

POST 88.61 7 PH

74.66 Rdge15 Rdge

15 Pad POST 15 18 2 74.93 75.60

Eave Rdge TCBsGreen Gate 74.76 83.23 13

Rdge Eave 16

73.83 75.87 16 16 6 38 87.10 SP Sir Martin Noel's Almshouses Rdge Box Eave 17 (site of) Bank 83.13 Rdge Rdge 30 the park and outline the design interventions proposed within this Tarmac POST Eave WD 87.04 SP S008 BO 75.36 73.085 LP 3 75.68 7

73.11 Signs The 1 40 75.82 33 WD Riverside 75.82 Malthouse 74.26 75.37 Eave Eave SP BO 73.70 88.60 82.60 Box PH 75.64 75.02 75.34 2

75.03Box 6 FB

BO 75.25

Round 2 HLF application. 73.63 32 4 WD 74.99

POST POST PH 21 to 1 76.6m 74.88 Bench 35

Eave Rdge 35

42 82.63 31 9494 Mills The River Sow Eave Lewis Heath Victoria Road DERBY STREET Lewis Heath WD 74.01 POST Eave 94.17 80.83 34 BO 34 Memorial Memorial POST SP 74.71

Posts Rdge 5 5 Institute Box 74.20 74.68 8

Car Park Posts Bridge 8 Posts 32a Institute 75.75 32a 74.50

4 75.3m

Boxes 4 75.59 32 4 73.14 WATER STREET 32 VICTORIA ROAD BO Rdge 100 1 100 4 1 4 POST S009 SP 75.61 73.153 75.28 Green 74.47 Eave Garage 74.75 80.76 BANK PH 74.18 Rdge 30 74.36 30 BANK PH Bridge 75.29 POST Rdge Eave MILL 75.18 73.15 73.14 TENTERBANKS 75.48TP POST Eave 80.02 75.47 75.46 74.96 80.90 75.15 LP Bin 74.94 74.23 110 MILL SP Victoria Park House Bench 74.29 Car Park TP 110 111 Rdge 75.29 75.47 Eave Bench 107 SP

74.32 107 111 75.38 74.89 81.07 Rdge

(Government Offices) 74.13 BP Surgery SL 13 S13B Surgery POST CA 75.27 75.364 TP 75.25 73.17 Bench 74.35 74.36 74.45 SL 75.28

Mast Eave LP 74.56 BP CA 74.34 74.39 75.82 94.15 75.21 POST 75.08 BP Mkr Eave 74.63 Grass POST 72.97 Gy Bench Eave 74.58 74.24 74.31 76.76 75.21 80.76 73.08 74.73 Gy Bin Eave Bin 16 74.57 75.19 80.79 74.29 Bench 75.20 TP 73.91 Rdge Tarmac

75.27 74.10 75.39 Bin Block Paving 72.90 Soil Bench Bench 74.75 FL 74.59 Bench Gy 74.78 FB 74.51 75.36 74.55 Rdge 74.96 75.70 76.05 BP 74.45 GL POST Bench 73.06 SL 74.96 75.37 LP 74.25 74.58 VP 74.11 74.22 Bench 75.71 74.54Grass FL 74.30 Town Wall FL Gy Gy PInv SP 72.97 Sinks Eave 74.43 74.35 74.52 74.24 Town Wall 76.0676.05 75.00 Bin Bench 81.84 75.99 POST 74.45 Rdge (course of) Gy BP Bench S100 (course of) Gy 74.45 Bench 74.548 74.26 74.49 Gy 74.29 74.90 72.72 PInv Mkr POST 76.09 Box 75.41 76.00 73.96 74.39 DP Rdge 72.62 74.51 Gy Eave THL The Picture 73.07 74.44 S013 FL Rdge 74.43 77.68 74.90 72.84 74.88 74.13 Eave 74.6874.72 74.71 74.504 73.07 72.75 75.25 74.30 Markers 80.10 74.70 BP PInv

Eave Bench 74.40 DP THL Bench Eave DP 74.69 72.21 House 12a 81.82 75.23 73.12 POST 74.78 73.97 74.37 74.78 74.61 77.08 74.92 DP 74.26 Eave CA Gy 74.00 Gy 74.60 War Memorial 74.53 Gy 73.95 77.70 74.06 Bench 74.68 74.64 73.58 72.93 (PH) 74.58 74.60 POST Gy 74.20 74.38 Bin 74.73 SP SP 74.37 El POST S13A

74.08 LP 74.67 72.931 12 LP POST Gy 74.70 Gy 74.52 74.53 Bin 72.93 74.55 76.06 Sub Sta 74.41 73.98 74.31 74.76 73.08 74.25 Grass Bench 74.71 73.50 Bench 74.64 74.65 S014 74.29 74.67 CR POST 74.61 Waterwheels73.53 LP POST SP 75.85 73.490

S010 74.52 Signs 76.00 SL 11 Bench 74.308 75.63 Tarmac 72.93 1 to 12 74.90 74.23 Bowling Green 1 to 12 75.00 Rdge S012 73.70 74.14 72.30 72.78 74.16 74.63 LP Concrete 73.20 74.608

Gy 73.20 BRIDGE STREET 74.28

73.06 74.32 Office SP 72.82 ST VP 10 Izaak Walton Walk Gy Eave 14 to 37 FS 74.37 73.17 73.09 86.05 Rdge 14 to 37 74.97 75.53 Bin 72.93 73.29 74.36 75.13 75.05 Shelter DP 74.57 73.52 Rdge 75.43 72.20 Shelters 74.74 Bench SV FS 74.72 S14A Eave 74.46 73.28 75.09 74.60 74.583 El Sub Sta

Box 76.47 DP 75.45

TP 74.43 Gy Gy 74.30 FS DP 74.64 73.83 9 Gy 74.07 74.10 75.46 74.54 75.6375.04 73.59 Bench 73.16 ST 75.14 74.12 75.21 Line Of Posts 74.02 THL DP Bench 73.21 FS 74.35 Bin Bench 74.58 74.43 3b 75.18 74.64 Bin 74.30 74.26 BT Sign Riverside Shelter 74.11 Bench 73.42 Riverside 75.26 BP BI 74.38 73.09 FS 3a S101 GV Bin 75.29 75.03 Gy Gy 74.59 72.99 Sign 74.099 74.31 Tarmac Mews Drain 74.09 74.03 Gy 3 Bin LP Mews FL 74.32 74.61 FS 74.06 Bench LP 73.11 Gy 74.79 74.86 S14B SP 73.97 74.25 SP TP 74.264

FL 74.19 74.29 Bench 72.96 Mkr

LPFS FS Gy FS 73.06 Mill Pond 7 73.06 74.31 74.34 74.76 72.93 4 SP Bin SP PILGRIM PLACE Posts 74.27 Eave S10A Forebridge 75.00 74.99ST 75.16 73.08 76.61 74.385 Sign 74.25 74.85 El Sub Sta S011 DP Signs 74.34 74.463 75.20 SP WL GR 72.56 74.42 74.93 74.99 Eave DP Mkr 73.09 Gy 78.21 72.85

74.75 74.33 74.68 73.95

Bin 74.30 Bin Gy Bench Rdge Gy Mkr 74.35 74.44 DP Bench Aviary 5 Conc Base 74.11 74.26 Eave 72.95 74.99 1 75.02 73.05 74.31 Gy Gy 76.63 74.99 PILGRIM STREET Eave 75.54 74.42 75.16 74.70 PInv 75.08 74.43 74.28 74.66 FB 75.17 82.72 Bin BP 74.48 Shelter LP THL 72.66 SP 74.49 74.47 Bin ST 75.04 74.62 SP 75.45 DP 74.67 Box 75.5m Bench Eave WD Tarmac Eave 75.5m Bench Bench THL 75.30 74.99 Rdge 77.02 Gy THL Eave 86.16 Rdge Rdge FS 74.45 74.37 74.44 THL 82.16 74.37 74.92 THL 74.43 WD PH 74.22 74.93 74.3974.27 FB 75.71 Rdge 74.47 Gy The 72.94 74.74 DP Bin 74.40 74.46 150 5 74.86 Victoria Park 74.05 Gy S11A 73.06 74.23 Tarmac Bench Gy 74.41 Eave 5a TC 74.435 WD 74.93 Rdge Moat House 73.29 72.94 82.37 74.5m LB LB Shelter LP 74.08 74.19 74.28 Posts 5b FL 74.49 74.49 74.14 73.02 Gy 149 74.49 75.00 FL PC YARD Footbridge 74.66 74.86 74.08 THL 73.02 Rdge Eave YARD Cobbles 13375.81 DP Stafford 73.07 82.32 74.29 Eave LP 82.49 75.07 DP 75.41 74.08 WL Sluice 74.71 74.59 75.11 75.07 74.93 72.52 Posts Station Bench Bench 74.75 72.41 74.04 S102 72.41 75.07 72.37 FB74.51 POST 74.277 VA Bin EPSLEY'S 143 74.66 Bin 72.37 Footbridge 74.02 74.03 72.67 72.25 142 75.27 74.78 POST Bench 74.61 74.84 PInv SP 73.97 141 STATION ROAD DP

TCB 75.04 74.63 72.94 75.14 72.38 73.28

TCB FL 74.0774.14 LP 140 Weir 74.86 1

74.23 EPSLEY'S FL Bench FL 74.80 Box 74.09 Bandstand 74.93 S202 74.05 74.58 74.03 74.846 73.96 POST

Mkr 74.97 74.06 74.12 SP 74.75 POST 74.72 Cinema SP (Foot) Bin Weir 139 Bench

73.97 Outfall Mkr Bench 73.96 ED & Ward Bdy 4 FB 74.84 River Sow 137

Bin WD

Eave Bench The Green Bench Meadow Bridge 14 86.94 LP 73.96 LP Bench 74.13 75.16 S104 73.97 74.98 S200 Bin 75.198 74.4m

Warehouse Bench 74.04 74.939 74.09 LP 1a 74.43 74.38 LP S103 75.22 74.30 74.237

Bench 74.11 Posts 74.23 The Moat House 134

73.81 134

BP 1b Bin 73.77 Bin 74.32 13 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of Her Majesty's

Footbridge

(Pipes Under) Bench 74.33 Eave 80.17 1 Bin 133a Stationery Office. Bench BP 133a

Shelter 2 75.13

74.35 © Crown Copyright and database right 2010. All rights reserved.

S201 BAILEY STREET 74.434 6

133 INSERT CLIENTS OR MAP SOURCE OS LICENCE NUMBER IF USING 74.52 NEWPORT ROAD 5

76.11 OS BASE MAPS

Eave 86.94 War 10 Eave Rdge NEWPORT ROAD 88.36 74.66 Memorial Garage Multistorey Car Park LP Yard 76.64 75.11 Woodings Eave LP 88.36 76.85 74.38 74.48 74.5m 74.36 POST Bin 74.5m Bench 75.06 74.36

74.79 74.97 Eave 74.31 74.28 76.77 74.76 SP 86.95 74.86

74.35 7 Works Rev Description Drawn Approved Date

75.66 74.39 74.48 75.05 SP 74.58 74.34 75.19 74.21 74.47 74.74 74.38 Mkr 74.34 75.20 74.09 Doxey Drain BO

S00A 75.941 Posts 77.04 BT Posts 9

Sign CL 76.54 Genesis Centre BT 10 CL 76.68 Birchwood Science Park Warrington Eave 86.95 75.6m 75.6m 14 WA3 7BH WALK Tel 01925 844004 Fax 01925 844002

Eave 84.97 e-mail [email protected]

Eave 84.95

Eave The Chetwynd Centre FRIARS'

83.50 Eave Site of 83.22 Eave 1a Eave 83.30 83.24 Friary Pavilion Rdge (Austin Friars Rdge GarageGarage FRIARS' ROAD founded 1344)Project Sorting Bowling Green Office

21 THE GREENVictoria Park, Stafford 1 El Sub Sta SB

Eagle House House

CASTLEFIELDS 6 Newman Title

Cottage

131 28 29a 1

MIDDLE FRIARS3 5 Location Plan ED & Ward Bdy

126

13 29

Drwg No

121 D5457.000 14 to 23 1 5 to 12 Date NEWPORT ROAD 17 to 28 Scale 76.8m Brunswick Anderson House El 24 to 35 ETL DRAFT

LB Bamford House 1:1000 @ A1 Sub Sta 15 ED Bdy House 04/04/16 1. Superstore 14 28/03/16 1.) Site Boundary Childrens Nursery Drawn Checked Approved 56 to 66 MA GDA GDA

ORCHARD STREET

page 4 February 2016 1.0 Introduction

1.2 HLF Funding

The funding from the HLF has the potential to address a series of interconnected needs and opportunities in relation to Victoria Park. Although not a listed park, it has particular heritage value and significance. To regain the original design intent, much of the park is in need of restoration and requires capital intervention and strong future management to ensure the original configuration and layout is retained for future generations.

A recent dilapidation report concludes that there was approximately £1m of maintenance liabilities within the park. This relates to all buildings, structures, footpaths and infrastructure such as bins and benches.

Issues identified by local people and stakeholders in relation to the current condition of the park include:

ƒƒLarge areas of poor planting; ƒƒOvergrown / over mature herbaceous borders; ƒƒToo many entrances; ƒƒPoor toilet and catering facilities; ƒƒHistoric structures in need of repair; ƒƒPoor interpretation of plants in the glasshouse.

1.) Aerial view of the northern side of the 1. park, with the River Sow in the foreground.

February 2016 page 5 1.0 Introduction

1.3 Condition

The park benefits from a high standard of horticultural care which is valued by the local community. The park received a Green Flag award in 2016 for the eighth consecutive year, however the judges have made a number of recommendations for improving and enhancing the park. These include:

ƒƒIncorporating heritage aspects within the overall maintenance; ƒƒInterpretation of the parks heritage; ƒƒPromoting opportunities for biodiversity; ƒƒBetter working with the Friends of Victoria Park; ƒƒBetter understanding of maintenance of heritage assets.

1.) Party in the Park (photo by Paul Milgate) 1.

page 6 February 2016 1.0 Introduction

1.4 Partnerships

Stafford Borough Council has been developing partnerships with local community groups throughout the course of this project and continue to strengthen and expand on this work. The Friends of Victoria Park has a membership of approximately 50 individuals and the project team have been working closely with the group to communicate ideas for the restoration of the park.

A partnership with Stafford College has evolved and they will be a key partner in helping deliver activities within the park, ranging from students undertaking horticultural studies to providing training opportunities for catering students.

TEP are responsible for developing the Activity Plan for the project and have been working with community groups and individuals to provide further detail on how they can be involved in the future of the park.

1. 1.) Consultation event in March 2016. 2.) Meeting with the Friends of Victoria Park 2. (April 2016). 3.) Performing Arts students at Stafford 3. College.

February 2016 page 7 2.0 Site and Context

2.1 Planning Policy This part provides a summary of relevant national and local policy and guidance which relate to the design and development of the site.

National Planning Policy and Guidance The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was published in March 2012 and sets out the Government’s planning policies for England, how these are expected to be applied and how developers should comply with them. The NPPF places great emphasis on plans and developments contributing to sustainable development.

Section 7 of the NPPF emphasises the importance of design and its contribution to making places better for people. New development should:

ƒƒ Function well and add to the overall quality of the area; ƒƒ Establish a strong sense of place; ƒƒ Respond to local character and history reflecting local identity whilst not preventing appropriate innovation; ƒƒ Create safe and accessible environments; and ƒƒ Be visually attractive as a result of good architecture and appropriate landscaping.

The NPPF also states how the planning system has an important role in facilitating social interaction and creating healthy, inclusive communities. Policies within Local Plans should deliver social, recreational and cultural facilities and services to meet the needs of local communities through access to high quality open spaces and opportunities for sport and recreation.

1.) Mill Wheels 1.

page 8 February 2016 2.0 Site and Context

Local Planning Policy Local design policy is provided within the Plan for Stafford Borough, which was adopted in 2014. Relevant policies seek to ensure that development proposals:

ƒƒ Retain, protect, supplement or enhance all types of sport, recreation and open space facilities (Policy C7); ƒƒ For tourism promote and enhance visitor and recreational attractions and the Borough’s landscape and historic character (Policy E6); ƒƒ Enhance design quality including access for all and accessibility (Policy N1); ƒƒ Take account of and mitigate for climate change (Policy N2); ƒƒ Protect the setting of landscape, heritage and natural assets within the Borough’s Green Infrastructure network (Policy N4); and ƒƒ Sustain and enhance the significance of heritage assets and their setting promoting high quality design (Policy N9).

The Plan for Stafford Borough Part 2 provides more detailed site allocation information and a policy for protecting social and community facilities. It was subject to examination in July to August 2016. The Council is currently undertaking consultation on the main modifications to the Plan suggested by the Planning Inspector.

Conservation Area Victoria Park lies within the Stafford Conservation area, and forms an important counterpoint to the tightly packed town centre.

The character appraisal for the conservation area provides a detailed assessment of the special characteristics, key positive and negative features with a range of actions for managing the conservation area, including the management and enhancement of amenity spaces.

1.) Stafford town Conservation Area,

1. © Crown copyright and database rights (2011) Ordinance Survey (100016205).

February 2016 page 9 2.0 Site and Context

2.2 History Early Medieval The settlement of Stafford was founded on an area known as the Island of Bethnei in 700AD. In 913AD Ethelfleda, Lady of Mercian’s and daughter of King Alfored the Great, built the Burh (fortified town) of Straithford within the loop of the River Sow. The fortress Ethelfleda developed included a castle on the north side of the River Sow, with town walls and a fosse surrounding the rest of the town. Victoria Park lies just outside where the town wall and palisades would have been to the south of Stafford.

Medieval Stafford was one of seven walled towns at the time of the Domesday Book in 1086, and there are no records of a castle. The Stafford Historic Character Assessment (2011) states that by the time the Domesday book was compiled Stafford was a large settlement with over 100 houses and was the principal town of the county. The Blue Plaque on the Mill Wheels, to the north east of the site at Mill Bank, states that it was ‘probably the site of a mill since 1086.’ This is the origin of the Town Mill site where the Mill Wheels are currently located today. There is also evidence of the watermill at Mill Bank being used to full cloth as well as grind corn during the early post medieval period and possibly earlier.

Post-Medieval In the early 17th century the street name Tenterbanks was recorded, meaning an area of land used to dry out cloth or animal skins. The Broad Eye Windmill, was built in 1796 using materials from the demolished late 16th century Shire Hall at the western most extent of the original Victoria Park boundary adjacent to the children’s play park.

1.) Photograph of John Speeds 1610 Map of Staffs, taken from page 188 of ‘A History of the County of Stafford’ Vol 6 (1979). 1.

page 10 February 2016 Staffordshire Published 1881 Source map scale - 1:2,500 The historical maps shown were reproduced from maps predominantly held at the scale adopted for England, Wales and Scotland in the 1840`s. In 1854 2.0 Site and Context the 1:2,500 scale was adopted for mapping urban areas and by 1896 it covered the whole of what were considered to be the cultivated parts of Great Britain. The published date given below is often some years later than the surveyed date. Before 1938, all OS maps were based on the Cassini Projection, with independent surveys of a single county or group of counties, 2.2 History giving rise to significant inaccuracies in outlying areas. Nineteenth Century The Stafford family built the Mill House next to the Town Mill in 1810, 19th century maps show this as ‘Holly House’. Further work to the Town Mill site was carried out with the addition of a Flour Mill in 1834. Today it is designated as a Grade II building called Moat House.

In 1837 the Grand Junction Railway station was opened in Stafford and ran between Birmingham and Warrington. The station was re-built between 1843 and 1847 in an ElizabethanMap Name(s) style. and Date(s)

Major changes took place after Charles Dickens described the area ‘as dull and dead a town as anyone could desire not to see’ on his visit in 1852. In 1865-6 Victoria Road was laid out to provide a direct approach from the town to the station and included the construction of Victoria Bridge. In 1876 a new act was passed - The Stafford Corporation Act 1876; Clause 33 which ruled, in relation to the River Sow, ‘To embank the river, and to plant with trees or shrubs and otherwise improve the banks.’ Clause 63 then referred to the creation of parks and pleasure grounds within Stafford. Historical Map - Segment A13

The Town Mill was bought from the Stafford Family by the Stafford Corporation in 1879 and The Stafford Corporation Act 1880 ruled for 20 acres of land for public pleasure ground. There was talk within Stafford about creating a park but the idea was dismissed. In 1898 the idea for a park was re-introduced to the Council, but never agreed. In 1880 Izaak Walton Walk was opened alongside the River sow to commemorate the life and works of Stafford born author; it first appears on maps published in 1901.

1.) Stafford, Published 1881. Reproduced with Permission of © Crown copyright and Landmark Information Group Limited 2015. All Rights 1. Reserved Order Details Order Number: 75649121_1_1 Customer Ref: job no: 5457 February 2016 page 11 National Grid Reference: 392040, 322970 Slice: A Site Area (Ha): 3.31 Search Buffer (m): 100 Site Details Victoria Park, Tenterbanks, STAFFORD, ST16 2QP

Tel: 0844 844 9952 Fax: 0844 844 9951 Web: www.envirocheck.co.uk

A Landmark Information Group Service v47.0 24-Nov-2015 Page 2 of 16 Staffordshire Published 1901 Source map scale - 1:2,500 The historical maps shown were reproduced from maps predominantly held at the scale adopted for England, Wales and Scotland in the 1840`s. In 1854 2.0 Site and Context the 1:2,500 scale was adopted for mapping urban areas and by 1896 it covered the whole of what were considered to be the cultivated parts of Great Britain. The published date given below is often some years later than the surveyed date. Before 1938, all OS maps were based on the Cassini Projection, with independent surveys of a single county or group of counties, 2.2 History giving rise to significant inaccuracies in outlying areas. Twentieth Century At the start of the century in 1901, Councillor Bedford raised a motion for a park within Stafford and this was backed by Councillor Greatrex, the concept was passed and referred to the Estates and Works Committee for feasibility. A plan was submitted for Victoria Park and originally rejected. At this point the land between Forebridge Drain and the River Sow comprised undeveloped land and the Izaak Walton Walk as seen opposite.

In 1903 William Blackshaw prepared a plan for the Park which Map Name(s) and Date(s) incorporated Izaak Walton Way (established in 1880) into the Park design.

The Estates and Work Committee submitted a scheme designed by William Blackshaw based on the 1903 sub-committee for the Pleasure Grounds, which required the raising of the land by 2 ¼ ft. Mayor Alderman Mottram donated a cast iron Shelter to the Park and there was a public subscription for benches and flowers donated. The 1908 plan showed a Cablemans Shelter on the edge of Station Road and Victoria Road. Historical Map - Segment A13 Phase 1 of the Victoria Park opened to the public in 1908. On 20th July there was a large report in the Stafford chronicle regarding the opening of the Park and on 19th November there was a report to the Pleasure Grounds Committee on the expansion of the Park (Phase II).

1.) Stafford, Published 1901. Reproduced with Permission of © Crown copyright and Landmark Information Group Limited 2015. All Rights Reserved 1. Order Details Order Number: 75649121_1_1 Customer Ref: job no: 5457 page 12 February 2016 National Grid Reference: 392040, 322970 Slice: A Site Area (Ha): 3.31 Search Buffer (m): 100 Site Details Victoria Park, Tenterbanks, STAFFORD, ST16 2QP

Tel: 0844 844 9952 Fax: 0844 844 9951 Web: www.envirocheck.co.uk

A Landmark Information Group Service v47.0 24-Nov-2015 Page 3 of 16 Staffordshire Published 1923 Source map scale - 1:2,500 The historical maps shown were reproduced from maps predominantly held at the scale adopted for England, Wales and Scotland in the 1840`s. In 1854 2.0 Site and Context the 1:2,500 scale was adopted for mapping urban areas and by 1896 it covered the whole of what were considered to be the cultivated parts of Great Britain. The published date given below is often some years later than the surveyed date. Before 1938, all OS maps were based on the Cassini Projection, with independent surveys of a single county or group of counties, 2.2 History giving rise to significant inaccuracies in outlying areas. Twentieth Century (continued) Phase II of the Park was completed on the site north of the River Sow and coincided with the opening of Coronation Bridge to mark the coronation of King George V in 1911.

The Victoria Pleasure Grounds first appears on maps published in 1923, as seen opposite.

There were several notable additions and changes to the park’s infrastructure. In 1923 the War Memorial was Maperected. Name(s) 1928 saw and Date(s) the greenhouse constructed by Frost & Pearson of Beeston, Nottingham, at a cost of £359 10s, between 8th and 14th June.

Phase III of the Park was completed to the west of the existing park in 1930 which included tennis courts, a children’s playground and a paddling pool. This decade also saw the Tennis Pavilion constructed by Sandy & Co at a cost of £500 10s.

A concrete Shelter adjacent to the paddling pool was constructed by Sandy & Co, at a cost of £85 6s between 10th July and 14th September. The Thatched Shelter was constructedHistorical by James Map - Segment A13 Morgan & Sons at a cost of £521 10s between 20th July and 20th October 1931. There is no description of what the shelter is for, and is noted as simply ‘Pavilion in Victoria Park, Stafford’.

1.) Stafford, Published 1923. Reproduced with Permission of © Crown copyright and Landmark Information Group Limited 2015. All Rights 1. Reserved Order Details Order Number: 75649121_1_1 Customer Ref: job no: 5457 February 2016 page 13 National Grid Reference: 392040, 322970 Slice: A Site Area (Ha): 3.31 Search Buffer (m): 100 Site Details Victoria Park, Tenterbanks, STAFFORD, ST16 2QP

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A Landmark Information Group Service v47.0 24-Nov-2015 Page 4 of 16 Ordnance Survey Plan Published 1958 - 1959 Source map scale - 1:1,250 The historical maps shown were reproduced from maps predominantly held at the scale adopted for England, Wales and Scotland in the 1840`s. In 1854 2.0 Site and Context the 1:2,500 scale was adopted for mapping urban areas and by 1896 it covered the whole of what were considered to be the cultivated parts of Great Britain. The published date given below is often some years later than the surveyed date. Before 1938, all OS maps were based on the Cassini Projection, with independent surveys of a single county or group of counties, 2.2 History giving rise to significant inaccuracies in outlying areas. Twentieth Century (continued) Maps published in 1958-1959 show a number of additions to the park, including:

ƒƒThe County War Memorial; ƒƒThe greenhouse; ƒƒThatched Pavilion; ƒƒThe Aviary. Map Name(s) and Date(s) In 1937 the mill wheels were supplemented by motor-power, at which point the owners were concentrating on producing animal feed. Another notable change is the closure and demolition of the Town Mill in 1957.

Historical Map - Segment A13

1.) Stafford, Published 1958-59. Reproduced with Permission of © Crown copyright and Landmark Information Group Limited 2015. All Rights Reserved. 1. Order Details Order Number: 75649121_1_1 Customer Ref: job no: 5457 page 14 February 2016 National Grid Reference: 392040, 322970 Slice: A Site Area (Ha): 3.31 Search Buffer (m): 100 Site Details Victoria Park, Tenterbanks, STAFFORD, ST16 2QP

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A Landmark Information Group Service v47.0 24-Nov-2015 Page 5 of 16 Additional SIMs Published 1978 - 1989 Source map scale - 1:1,250 The SIM cards (Ordnance Survey's `Survey of Information on Microfilm') are further, minor editions of mapping which were produced and published in 2.0 Site and Context between the main editions as an area was updated. They date from 1947 to 1994, and contain detailed information on buildings, roads and land-use. These maps were produced at both 1:2,500 and 1:1,250 scales. 2.2 History Twentieth Century (continued) The Venables Pavilion was moved from its original location at the corner of Victoria Road and Station Road in 1970.

The 1980s saw the cast-iron conservatory replaced, and the aviary building replaced following a collapse of the original.

Maps published between 1978-1989 as seen opposite, show that land within the north west of the Park changes from the formal planting it was on previous maps. These areasMap changed Name(s) to areas and Date(s) of lawn with shrub planting and a sensory garden.

Historical Map - Segment A13

1.) Stafford, Published 1958-59. Reproduced with Permission of © Crown copyright and Landmark Information Group Limited 2015. All Rights 1. Reserved. Order Details Order Number: 75649121_1_1 Customer Ref: job no: 5457 February 2016 page 15 National Grid Reference: 392040, 322970 Slice: A Site Area (Ha): 3.31 Search Buffer (m): 100 Site Details Victoria Park, Tenterbanks, STAFFORD, ST16 2QP

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A Landmark Information Group Service v47.0 24-Nov-2015 Page 10 of 16 Large-Scale National Grid Data Published 1994 Source map scale - 1:1,250 'Large Scale National Grid Data' superseded SIM cards (Ordnance Survey's 'Survey of Information on Microfilm') in 1992, and continued to be produced 2.0 Site and Context until 1999. These maps were the fore-runners of digital mapping and so provide detailed information on houses and roads, but tend to show less topographic features such as vegetation. These maps were produced at both 1:2,500 and 1:1,250 scales. 2.2 History Twentieth Century (continued) On maps published in 1994 as see opposite, the toilets at the Newport Road entrance appear to have been demolished.

Stafford College student Rosemary Cripps had her statue ‘The Bowls Player’ established in the Park following a 21 sculpture student exhibition in the Park in 1998.

Map Name(s) and Date(s) Twentieth First Century Victoria Park has ‘developed alongside essential flood defence works especially during 2003 and 2004.

At this time many improvements were completed that varied from the introduction of new riverbank habitats to renewal of dilapidated fences and furniture.’

The north section Victoria Park also underwent a £650,000 redevelopment of children’s play facilities. This has defined areas for under 8’s, under 12’s, youth, wheeled sports, wet and sand play. Historical Map - Segment A13

1.) Stafford, Published 1994. Reproduced with Permission of © Crown copyright and Landmark Information Group Limited 2015. All Rights Reserved 1. Order Details Order Number: 75649121_1_1 Customer Ref: job no: 5457 page 16 February 2016 National Grid Reference: 392040, 322970 Slice: A Site Area (Ha): 3.31 Search Buffer (m): 100 Site Details Victoria Park, Tenterbanks, STAFFORD, ST16 2QP

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A Landmark Information Group Service v47.0 24-Nov-2015 Page 14 of 16 2.0 Site and Context

2.3 Access and Circulation Entrance Points Public Rights of Way (PRoW) Three entrance points were incorporated in 1908 as part of the There are two PRoWs within Victoria Park. Stafford 42 runs from Phase I design; Victoria Road, Station Road and Newport Road. Victoria Road, west of Victoria Road Bridge over the River Sow A hand gate in the railings adjacent to the Izaak Walton Walk was and joins Stafford 41 on Mill Walk. Stafford 41 runs from the Park to be an emergency exit however this became another entrance entrance on Newport Road and ends at the south west end of Mill point. As part of Phase II entrances at Victoria Road (north west) Bank adjacent to the mill wheels. and Mill Walk were incorporated in 1911. National Cycle Routes (NCR) Today there are twelve entrances to the site, two of which are NCR 5 runs through the Park from under Victoria Road Bridge for maintenance access only. The gates at the Newport Road along Izaak Walton Walk, crossing the River Sow on Mill Bank entrance date back to the opening of the Park in 1908. Other Walk and leaves the Park at the Mill Bank entrance and carries on entrances points have changed during the re-alignment of Station along Mill Bank. NCR5 is a long distance route (372 miles long) Road, the installation of the War Memorial and the changes connecting Reading and Holyhead via Oxford, Stratford-upon- adjacent to the Tenterbanks boundary when buildings were Avon, Bromsgrove, Birmingham, Stoke-on-Trent, Chester, Colwyn demolished and a car park was created. Bay and Bangor

Footpaths When designing the Park, William Blackshaw planned to have 1.5 miles of promenading paths, including the bridges over the watercourse. Many of the paths follow the original design and layout with some additions and changes over time.

Izaak Walton Walk was created along the southern bank of the River Sow in 1880. It pre-dates the development of Victoria Park and it commemorates the life and works of Stafford born Izaak Walton, a renowned author best known for The Compleat Angler. The path was included as part of the network of footpaths within Victoria Park. Izaak Walton Walk is a PRoW (Stafford No. 42).

Set into the surface of the footpaths on Mill Walk and Izaak Walton Walk there are brass plaques with the writing ‘River Sow Leisure Route’ surrounding a swan motif in the centre. The plaques are a modern addition to the Park. 1. 1.) Izaak Walton Walk running along the southern bank of the River Sow 2. 2.) Stafford 41 PRoW ‘Mill Walk’ 3.) National Cycle Route 5 runs through 3. the Park

February 2016 page 17 2.0 Site and Context

2.4 Trees Trees are one of the most significant and valuable resources within Victoria Park. They define the character of the Park and provide a myriad of benefits to the local area. Many of the trees in the Park are between 50 and 100 years old and may live as long again. Accordingly, this resource should be ascribed considerable value and cautious protection during future development to ensure that a notably high quality tree stock is enhanced for future generations.

The trees that line the footpath to the south of the River (Izaak Walton Walk) include four mature London plane trees of particularly noteworthy importance, as well as several middle aged to mature lime trees. Within the central area of the Park to the south of the River, there are several individual trees that collectively add a high level of arboricultural and amenity value to the Park as a whole, including a Blue Cedar near the bandstand.

A preliminary ground level appraisal of the wildlife habitat value of each tree was undertaken as part of the arboricultural survey with only one tree noted as having features that are suitable for bat roosting such as large cracks or cavities. The Park is also likely to offer some foraging opportunities for bat populations in the wider area. As the trees mature, it is anticipated that the occurrence of potential bat roosting features will increase.

1.) Mature London Planes along ‘Izaak Walton Walk’ 2.) Mature Lime trees along ‘Izaak Walton Walk’ 1. 2. 3.) Blue Cedar adjacent to the bandstand. 4.) Mature trees throughout the part if bat roosting potential 3. 4.

page 18 February 2016 2.0 Site and Context

2.5 Ecology Staffordshire Biodiversity Action Plan Habitats Staffordshire Biodiversity Action Plan (SBAP) comprise Ecosystem The site comprises various habitat types including open water, Action Plans, Priority Habitats and Priority Species. The SBAP marginal vegetation, mature trees, shrubs beds and grassland. focuses conservation on the areas within Staffordshire that will The landscape is generally ornamental and formal and maintained result in the greatest benefit for ecological connectivity, habitats for amenity value. There are areas of amenity grass which are and species. closely mown, flower beds and rose beds, ornamental shrubs, a bowling green and footpaths. The River Sow has been canalised Victoria Park is within the Urban Ecosystem Action Plan and the but is used by waterfowl such as swans and mallard. River Sow falls into the River, Canals and Streams Ecosystem Action Plan and Rivers and Streams Priority Habitat. Species The trees, dense scrub/ shrubs and hedgerows were identified as Urban Ecosystem Action Plan suitable for birds to nest. It should also be noted that kingfisher, a The Urban Ecosystem Action Plan describes the urban area as Schedule 1 species, was observed on site on two occasions. providing a diverse, range of animals and plants in a number of important habitats such as green spaces, brownfield sites The buildings on site have no obvious features with the potential and private gardens. As urban centres expand and populations to support roosting bats, and are not deemed suitable for use by rise, maintaining and improving biodiversity in urban areas is hibernating bats. There are many mature trees on site, particularly imperative. Ensuring biodiversity within urban areas also provides the London Planes, which have some potential for roosting bats. a link for the public to enjoy nature and improve the quality of life The Friends of Victoria Park group installed bat boxes on site in and wellbeing. Green spaces also provide wider environmental 2012. benefits as well as economic benefits.

Rivers, Canals & Streams The River Sow flowing through Victoria Park falls into the Rivers and Streams Priority Habitat and the River, Canals and Streams Ecosystem Action Plan. The key threats to rivers include poor management (dredging and re-sectioning), water pollution, barriers to connectivity and urban development.

1. 1.) The River Sow provides a valuable habitat within the Park 2.) Large ‘London Planes’ have bird 2. nesting and bat roosting potential

February 2016 page 19 3.0 Site Analysis and Concept

3.1 Site Analysis Zonal Plan Circulation and Access Site Constraints It is possible to split the park into distinctive zones, determined by There are a number of key entrance points, with pedestrian There are a number of visual and physical barriers that surround the character, structure and form of the existing park layout. movement linking through the park from the train station to the Victoria Park. The site is unfortunately surrounded on three sides city centre. Also the popular route along Mill Walk along the south by busy roads, with Station Road and Victoria Road to the south The northern section of the park is the more active side with eastern boundary is used by pedestrians to access the town west and north west of the site creating a very strong visual and facilities such as the aviary, thatched toilet block, greenhouse and centre. physical barrier circling the park. bowling green. The character of the northern section is open, with a large expanse of amenity grassland and formal bedding. Another key pedestrian and cycling route (PRoW 42 and National A number of unsightly buildings and amenities overlook the park Cycle Route 5) runs directly through the centre of the park, and detract from the aesthetic value. The southern section of the park has a parkland feel, with a running alongside the River Sow. greater sense of enclosure, with large mature tree planting and distinctive built features such as the bandstand and Alderman 1.) Zonal Plan Mottram shelter. 2.) Access and Circulation Plan 3.) Site Constraints Plan

1. 2. 3.

page 20 February 2016 3.0 Site Analysis and Concept

3.2 Vision

Victoria Park is the principal park for Stafford and is currently Exploit the Prime Location Promote Sustainable Design a well-used greenspace which benefits from a high standard The park benefits from being located at the heart of the town Advocate the careful selection of materials to minimise the carbon of maintenance. The local community values the park very centre with excellent transport links. Being adjacent to the train footprint of the build, but equally minimise the requirement for highly, however there are significant elements requiring station also results in the park being used as a ‘shortcut’ to and frequent replacement by the use of robust solutions. The design restoration and facilities lacking or in need of investment. The from the retail core of the town centre. In addition, the park is supports the efficient use of energy and resources. For instance vision is for a ‘heritage driven’ masterplan which seeks to make close to Stafford College and provides essential greenspace for we are proposing to collect surface water drainage and store in measured interventions which will improve the quality of the students. As a result the park is busy throughout the day and the an underground tank for the irrigation of the bowling green and park and continue to provide a safe, accessible, and welcoming recent improvements to the play area have been a great success bedding. environment. in drawing more people into the park. Improve Visitor’s Understanding of the Heritage Value of The following outline the key aims of the design. Further Establish the Park a Destination the Park The proposal for an indoor café would support this aim and We know from the public consultation that much more needs to be Retain the Highest Quality Elements Build on Those encourage visitors to spend longer time in the park. Twinned with done to interpret the history of the park. There are many ways to Strengths this must be a focus on the highest quality facilities as the park is achieve this and the relocation of the park office to a more central The Conservation Plan has identified the elements with the most in competition with other amenities in the local area. ‘public facing’ position provides one such opportunity. significance and the masterplan aims to protect and enhance these. Structures such as the Mottram Shelter and bandstand will Package Elements Together to Improve the Offer Enhance Biodiversity be refurbished and their setting enhanced. In addition the plan The phrase ‘the whole is greater than the sum of the parts’ Look for opportunities to maximise biodiversity within the takes an uncompromising approach to removing unsympathetic could be applicable to Victoria Park. There would be strength park through imaginative planting design which balances the elements. in packaging elements together for instance the aviary, outdoor requirement for a high quality aesthetic with principles of nature classroom and glasshouse ‘cluster’ could be badged as the conservation. Create a Sense of Space ‘education centre’ to support learning and development. Given the compact nature of the park it is important that every effort is made to make the park feel larger than it is. Currently, Build in Flexibility to Cater for a Wide Variety of Uses and arbitrary blocks of planting obscure important views and fail to Events block out the poorer elements surrounding the park. Clearing out Ensure that the park supports a diverse range of activities in planting for the events space whilst placing the planting on the order to maximise the potential audience and enable the Activity boundary to the park mirrors the original concept from Blackshaw. Plan to be delivered. This should secure the park for future for This philosophy was well established during the 19th Century and generations with a balance between active and passive areas that examples such as Birkenhead Park should be evidenced. This can evolve and adapt in to future needs. approach should also foster the experience that the park is an escape from the urban realm and hustle and bustle of everyday life.

February 2016 page 21 3.0 Site Analysis and Concept

3.3 Concept Design Southern Section The diagram on the right illustrates the key interventions proposed for the southern side of the park which demonstrate how the statements made in the vision are put into practice.

The creation of an events space by clearing vegetation out the central section of the park, with the bandstand at the head of the space will be the most significance change on this side of the park. Combined with a strong structure planting belt to the Station Road boundary, this helps create a sense of space and provides a flexible area for hosting events.

We are proposing some minor adjustments to the main footpath, to remove pinch points and create a smooth flowing link (spine footpath) through to Coronation Bridge and beyond. The Mottram Shelter will be restored and the gateway into the park from Station Road transformed into a more grand entrance befitting of the status of the park.

The concept illustrates the potential to integrate the war memorial with the park by providing a direct connection which makes the most of an existing heritage asset and could enable memorial services to be held in the park. It should be noted that during the consultation phase, concern was raised by the War Memorials Trust and Conservation Officer, and as such this part of the design will not be taken forward.

1.) Conceptual design for the Southern Section of Victoria Park 1.

page 22 February 2016 3.0 Site Analysis and Concept

3.4 Concept Design Northern Section The diagram on the left illustrates the key design components proposed for the northern side of the park.

The principal intervention, and the one that should have the most impact, is the positioning of a café on the footprint of the aviary. We feel this is the prime location for this facility, offering 360º views over the park and being positioned on the ‘spine’ footpath and a possible future connection through to Mill Walk with a new bridge ‘at grade’ to provide another accessible route into the park.

The aviary is then moved north to help form the cluster of buildings to be termed the ‘education centre’. This will see the removal of a number of unsympathetic additions to the park including the park office and working greenhouse. The existing potting shed will be converted to an indoor demonstration / classroom space with a new lean-to greenhouse constructed to the south facing elevation.

The toilet block / thatched shelter is to be refurbished and adjustments made to accommodate the park office which will benefit from a more strategic location and provide the opportunity to incorporate interpretation of the park’s history.

To the north west of the bowling green the refreshment kiosk and sensory garden are both to be removed to return the layout back to the original design. An expanded riverside seating area is also proposed.

1.) Conceptual Designs for the Northern 1. Section of Victoria Park

February 2016 page 23 3.0 Site Analysis and Concept

3.5 Education Centre Concept Design

A number of options have been explored for the area we are terming the ‘education centre’. This describes the cluster of buildings including the display greenhouse, aviary and training facility.

The project team have come to a number of conclusions as a result of this process. The first is that both the office block and the working greenhouse need to be removed in order to make a transformational change in that area of the park. Secondly the size of the aviary should be reduced from its existing footprint to something more modest which will help open up views into the park from the ‘Mill Bank Gateway’.

1.) Option 1: Retention of working greenhouse with 165m2 aviary. 2.) Option 2: Retention of working greenhouse with aviary split into two units. 3.) Option 3: Demolition of working greenhouse with aviary reduced and set back to frame views into 1. 2. the park. 4.) Option 4: Demolition of working greenhouse with aviary reduced and orientated with the display 3. 4. glasshouse.

page 24 February 2016 3.0 Site Analysis and Concept

3.6 Cafe Concept Design

The design process has explored a number of different forms for the café. Option A illustrates a geometric design which was rejected on the basis that it appears to ‘jar’ with the form of the park. In contrast Option B demonstrates the concept of a circular ‘drum’ which was preferred by the project team as it offers 360º views and has the potential to ‘float’ above the terrace / landform next to the river.

A bridge is included on both options to provide a new gateway into the park from the public footpath which should generate increased footfall for the café.

Option 1 Option 2 Cafe = 75m² Cafe = 75m² Upper Terrace = 130m² Terrace = 45m² Option 1 Option 2 Cafe = 75m² Cafe = 75m² Upper Terrace = 130m² Terrace = 45m²

Victoria Park, Cafe Options 1. 2. 1.) Option A: Geometric sketch plan. Option 1 2.) Option B: Circular drum sketch plan. Option 1Option 1 Option 2 Option 2Option 2 Cafe = 75m² Cafe = 75m²Cafe = 75m² Cafe = 75m² Cafe = 75m²Cafe = 75m² 3.) Option A: Geometric sketch section. Upper Terrace = 130m² VictoriaTerrace =Park, 45m² Cafe Options Upper TerraceUpper =Terrace 130m² = 130m² Terrace =Terrace 45m² = 45m² 3. 4. 4.) Option B: Circular drum sketch elevation.

February 2016 page 25 VictoriaVictoria Park,Victoria Cafe Park, Options Park, Cafe Cafe Options Options 4.0 Design Proposals

4.1 Masterplan

As stated in section 3.2 there are a number of aims that the design intends to address; The following pages detail the various interventions within the ƒƒRetain the highest quality elements and build on those park. strengths; ƒƒCreate a sense of space; ƒƒExploit the prime location; ƒƒFurther establish the park as a destination; ƒƒPackage elements together to improve the offer; ƒƒBuild in flexibility to cater for a wide variety of uses; 1.) Sketch of entrance into the park from the town centre. ƒƒPromote sustainable design; 2.) Sketch of the proposed events space. ƒƒImprove visitor’s understanding of the heritage value; 3.) Sketch illustrating the proposed amphitheatre and cafe. ƒƒEnhance biodiversity.

1. 2. 3.

page 26 February 2016 4.0 Design Proposals

4.1 Masterplan Key 1. Mill Bank Entrance 2. Picnic Area 3. Aviary

Skip 4. Education Centre and greenhouse 5. Existing glasshouse VICTORIA ROAD 9. 6. Bowls Pavilion 11. TENTERBANKS 25. 10. 7. Bowling Green

30' Secure shipping container

20' Secure shipping container Petrol Store Grit Store 8. Thatched Shelter 6. 9. Car Park

5. 75.15 FFL 75.00 75.15 FFL 24. 8. 74.90 10. Herbaceous border 75.15 FFL 4. 75.15 FFL

74.60 75.08 75.15 FFL 1. 11. Sensory Garden 74.20 3. 74.20 7. 74.70 12. Catering Facility 74.70 2. 20. 13. Proposed future bridge link

9 risers @ 150mm 14. Amphitheatre 74.35

74.65 73.00 74.95 75.25 75.40 75.55 75.70 16. 75.75 74.20 73.90 19. 73.60 74.50 73.30 15. Toilet Block and Park Office 18. 74.50 74.75 75.75 75.50 75.00 75.25 73.00 1:21 gradient up 75.10 74.25 74.55 12. 16. Mill Pond 74.20 74.50 75.50 21. 73.90 73.60 74.05 75.00 73.30 73.75 73.45 23. 73.00 MILL WALK 15. 73.15 74.50

74.00 74.50 17. Planted Island 73.30 73.50 75.00 74.00 14.72.97 13. 73.50 18. Coronation Bridge STATION 19. Mottram Entrance 17. 20. Mottram Shelter 22. 21. Events space

STATION ROAD 22. Bandstand 23. Spine footpath 24. War memorial 25. Vehicle entrance for events

CAR PARK

NEWPORT ROAD

1. 1.) Illustrative Masterplan

February 2016 page 27 Skip

VICTORIA ROAD 4.0 Design Proposals TENTERBANKS

30' Secure shipping container

20' Secure shipping container Petrol Store Grit Store 4.2 Mill Bank Gateway

75.15 FFL

75.00 75.15 FFL This area of the masterplan is focussed on improving the quality 74.90

75.15 FFL of the impression from the town centre. Currently this is dominated 75.15 FFL 74.60 75.08 by views into the service yard which does not give the impression 75.15 FFL 74.20 of a high quality park. 74.20 74.70

The proposal is to move the ‘back of house’ functions to behind 74.70 the Venables Pavilion and demolish the office building and the working greenhouse to transform this area. These actions will result in views being opened up into the park and highlight 9 risers @ 150mm 74.35

74.65 73.00 features such as Coronation Bridge, the Thatched Shelter and the 74.95 75.25 75.40 75.55 75.70 75.75 74.20 proposed café. 73.90 73.60 74.50 73.30

74.50

74.75 75.75 75.50 Proposals also include for a new gate arrangement to provide a 75.00 75.25 73.00 1:21 gradient up 75.10 74.25 74.55

74.20 more grand entrance into the park. The design of these gates74.50 is 75.50 73.90 73.60 74.05 75.00 73.30 73.75 73.45 73.00 MILL WALK inspired by the original piers to the park with metalwork to match 73.15 74.50

74.00 74.50 73.30 the existing gates on Station Road and Victoria Road. 73.50 75.00 74.00 72.97

73.50

STATION

STATION ROAD

1. 2. 1.) Proposed extract from the masterplan.

CAR PARK 2.) Proposed gateway detail. 3.) Existing view from the Mill Bank entrance. 3.

page 28 February 2016

NEWPORT ROAD 4.0 Design Proposals

4.2 Mill Bank Gateway

As illustrated by the visualisation, the view will be framed by the new aviary on one side and the Mill Pond and proposed cafe on the other. We have also included an area of picnic benches and planters alongside the main footpath which could be moved to provide space for special events.

1.) Proposals showing the Mill Bank 1. entrance into the park from the town centre.

February 2016 page 29 Skip 4.0 Design proposals VICTORIA ROAD

TENTERBANKS 4.3 Mottram Entrance 30' Secure shipping container

20' Secure shipping container Petrol Store Overview Grit Store The entrance from Station Road is one of the most heavily used pedestrian access points into the park and offers a link from the station, through the park, into the town centre. 75.15 FFL

75.00 75.15 FFL

74.90

The current entrance links directly from a controlled crossing point 75.15 FFL 75.15 FFL

74.60 75.08 from the railway station and it would benefit from a greater area 75.15 FFL of space and by setting it back further into the park will provide a 74.20

74.20 more grand gateway. The existing ornate gated archway entrance 74.70 is to be reused and set within new railings and two new stone 74.70 piers, to match those already around the park perimeter.

9 risers @ 150mm 74.35

74.65 73.00 74.95 75.25 75.40 75.55 75.70 75.75 74.20 73.90 73.60 74.50 73.30

74.50

74.75 75.75 75.50 75.00 75.25 73.00 1:21 gradient up 75.10 74.25 74.55

74.20 74.50 75.50 73.90 73.60 74.05 75.00 73.30 73.75 73.45 73.00 MILL WALK 73.15 74.50

74.00 74.50 73.30 73.50 75.00 74.00 72.97

73.50

STATION

STATION ROAD

1.) Plan of the proposed Mottram entrance area. 2.) Elevation of the proposed improvements. 1. 2. 3.) Photo of the main path to be resurfaced as a 3m wide spine route through the park. 4.) Historical photograph of the Mottram Shelter. 3. 4.

CAR PARK

page 30 February 2016

NEWPORT ROAD 4.0 Design Proposals

4.3 Mottram Entrance The railings to this corner of the park will be reconfigured to provide a consistent boundary to the road edge and will be reinforced with new structure planting to help screen road traffic.

The main path through the park will be redefined and resurfaced to provide a consistent 3m wide ‘spine’ route, past the Mottram Shelter, through the proposed events space and across Coronation Bridge to the northern section of the park.

1. 1.) Photo of the Mottram entrance.

February 2016 page 31 4.0 Design Proposals

4.4 Mill Pond

The Mill Pond lies in the north east corner of the site and was originally connected to the Town Mill. It provides an area for quiet reflection due to the ‘sunken’ nature of the space and the surrounding vegetation. However, it is prone to flooding resulting in the surrounding paths and benches regularly being under water.

We have identified an opportunity to use this area for remote controlled boats due to the enclosed body of water and the elevated views where the controls could be located. This would provide further activity, link with the water, and provide an 1.) Existing view of the Mill Pond. additional income for the park. 2.) Existing view of the Mill Pond. 3.) Remote controlled boats at Chester Zoo.

1. 2. 3.

page 32 February 2016 4.0 Design Proposals

4.5 Maintenance Depot

The new depot is located to the north of the existing bowls pavilion with vehicular access directly from the adjacent car park. There is pedestrian access to the rear of the public greenhouse to the training area. A fence will enclose the area for both security and to conceal the ‘back of house’ activities from the public.

The depot area includes maintenance facilities to service and maintain the park. It is a purely functional area including a tool and vehicle store within two new proprietary storage containers, a skip, petrol store and grit store. The remaining area will be hard landscaped to provide a secure maintenance area.

1.) Plan of the Maintenance Depot 1. proposals

February 2016 page 33 4.0 Design Proposals

4.6 Aviary

The proposals include the replacement and relocation of the ƒƒInclude perches within the structure; existing aviary; which is currently located to the western end of ƒƒInclude a sealed concrete floor to the covered area, gravel the Mill Pond. The existing aviary is an octagonal structure on to the perimeter of the covered area and the rest of the a brick plinth, with timber frame and wire mesh. It is split into 8 enclosure to be turfed; enclosures, each with a covered shelter in the central section, ƒƒEach compartment to be similar in size to the existing aviary concrete floor within the shelter and grassed elsewhere. The compartments, circa 28m² existing structure is in poor condition and is approaching the end ƒƒInclude two layers of wire mesh to the sides and mesh roof; of its serviceable life with visible movement in the brickwork and ƒƒBe located in a visible position for park users, with links to the decay to the timber frame. Refurbishment of this existing structure education / training building. would be short term.

The positioning of the existing aviary is such that it both affords The new location of the aviary is towards the training building 360° views of the park, and is also visible as a prominent feature which supports the links to the educational / training facility. The from many areas of the park and surrounding pedestrian routes. plan layout of the enclosures has been developed following This, coupled with the condition of the existing structure has led analysis of the key vistas across the site (in particular from to the decision to demolish and relocate the aviary so that the the north eastern entrance) and anticipated visitor movement prominent position can be utilised by the new catering facility, the through the park. This, along with the retention of two established proposals for which are included below under section 4. magnolia trees has resulted in the plan layout of two triangular shaped structures forming the three enclosures. The removal of The brief for the new aviary is to provide a smaller facility to the working greenhouse and repositioning of the aviary allows include the following: this new location to be equally prominent, with views of the aviary upon immediate entrance to the park from Mill Bank, and from the ƒƒInclude separate compartments; western approach across the park. ƒƒBe suitable for; ƒƒCanaries, ƒƒZebra finches, ƒƒBudgerigars, ƒƒCockatiels, ƒƒLovebirds, ƒƒParakeets, ƒƒGolden Pheasants. ƒƒInclude a sheltered ‘night box’ with a solid roof and sides. 1. Openings to be included for both bird and keeper access. 1.) Aerial image of the existing Aviary. Covered area to include perches and night boxes. 2.) Precedent image of a similar aviary structure in Geneva, Switzerland. 2.

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4.6 Aviary

Visually, the structural frame will be a powder coated metal with both vertical and angled structural elements which begin to imitate the surrounding trees. The irregular grid of the façade provides an intermediate rhythm between the regular grid of the training block and irregular grid of the café building. The structure will predominantly be finished in a mid-grey colour, with the central feature posts and ‘branches’ highlighted in a vibrant green colour. A fine wire mesh will line the internal face of the structure, with a larger wire mesh to the outer face of the structure. This will produce a double skin to the aviary to form both the sides and the roof.

There will be a central night box in each of the compartments in a powder coated metal finish to match the structural frame. The cylindrical night box will include a permanent opening for keeper access, and small openings around the façade for bird entry. Internally, this space will include a sealed concrete floor and perches and space for feeding and night boxes.

Within the enclosure, the central structures will form perches for the birds. There will be a gravel perimeter to the night box and the remaining area will be turfed.

Overall, the structure will be single storey and there will be door access to each compartment including an internal safety porch. The proposed materials have been selected in order to provide a robust and low maintenance solution suitable for birds.

The floor finish within the aviary will be a combination of concrete around the night box with a gravel buffer and the remaining area will be turfed.

1.) Plan and elevations of the Aviary 1. proposals

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4.7 Education Centre Classroom / Greenhouse Visually, the new building will be a single storey timber clad The proposals include for a new training / classroom space and building with a flat roof and a lean-to style greenhouse to the working greenhouse to be used by both park visitors, students and southern side. The cladding material has been selected as a maintenance staff. The facilities are located along the Tenterbanks natural and ever-changing material which will sit comfortably in boundary and will replace the existing maintenance building in this the park environment, which is set above the predicted 1:100 year position, which cannot be retained due to poor foundations and +CC flood level (refer to Flood Risk Assessment for further details) ground conditions. on a brick plinth. The timber posts to the semi covered external area are raised above this level via a metal shoe, in a powder The brief for the education centre is as follows: coated finish to match the metalwork elsewhere.

ƒƒClassroom space for up to 20 students; ƒƒLockable storage for students; ƒƒTool store; ƒƒExternal covered training area; ƒƒCold frames for up to 20 students; ƒƒWorking greenhouse, approximately 35sqm; ƒƒCovered link between the working greenhouse and display greenhouse; ƒƒStaff maintenance room ƒƒWC facilities for student use

The positioning of the new facility promotes interaction between park users and the training facility. It’s connection to the aviary and the display greenhouse allow the opportunity for training links with these spaces and the covered area reinforces this. Access to the maintenance room is to the eastern edge of the building so that the space can be accessed and used by staff without disruption to the classroom. The positioning of the classroom itself links the covered classroom area and the training greenhouse. The facilities extend behind the public greenhouse to a semi-private space with cold frames for training. 1. 1.) Proposed elevations to the classroom and glasshouse. 2. 2.) Example of timber cladding. 3.) Example of a lean-to style glasshouse. 3.

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4.7 Education Centre

Both the greenhouse structure and the vertical cladding of the façade have a regular grid structure which begins to change in rhythm along the posts of the covered link area. This is achieved through uneven spacing of the vertical posts and horizontal slats which both creates interest in the façade with the varying amount of cover and light, and an aesthetic connection with the adjoining new structures.

Within the building itself, the finishes will be robust and low maintenance. The flooring will be a painted screed, the internal walls will be painted blockwork and the services will be exposed with no ceiling.

The workbenches will have a solid hardwood top with lockable storage cupboards below. These will be supported by a metal frame system which will raise the lockers above the predicted flood level. The area below the lockers can be used for personal storage by students. The teaching bench will have lockable wheels to the base so that it can be taken outside to the semi covered area for outdoor teaching. Within the greenhouse, there will be benches with hardwood worktops and metal shelving below, in lieu of the locker arrangement within the classroom.

1.) Proposed plan of the Education Centre 1. and adjacent Aviary.

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4.8 Display Glasshouse

The greenhouse is a modern glass house with a steel structural frame. The greenhouse dates from 1988 and replaces an earlier structure that appears on the 1959 Ordnance Survey map.

Works are limited to the refurbishment of the existing frame and rainwater disposal system and the replacement of the existing door with a new steel glazed door to the main entrance.

1.) Existing display glasshouse. 2.) Interior of the display glasshouse.

1. 2.

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4.8 Display Glasshouse

Internally, the proposals are to target improvements by including a butterfly, reptile and plant collection along with interpretation of these features. Together with the new aviary this should provide a stronger offer, particularly for families. Seating is also proposed.

1. 1.) Proposed plan of the Display Glasshouse 2.) Proposed internal elevation of the 2. Display Glasshouse

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4.9 Bowls Pavilion

The Venables Pavilion was originally a donation to the park in 1956 and was located on the corner of Victoria Road and Station Road. It was moved to its current location in 1970 and is predominantly used as a bowling pavilion.

It is generally in good condition and requires only minor refurbishment work externally. Internally, the existing WC and store will be removed and a new enlarged accessible WC and tea point installed in the same position. These will have lightweight plasterboard partitions, a tiled floor and splashback and a new suspended ceiling. The pavilion will be redecorated both internally 1.) Existing pavilion. and externally. 2.) Pavilion being used as a base for face painting. 3.) Friends of Victoria Park using the pavilion for a meeting.

1. 2. 3.

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4.9 Bowls Pavilion

1. 1.) Proposed plan of the Bowls Pavilion

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4.10 Toilet Block and Park Office

The existing thatched toilet block is being refurbished and Where required, the existing seating will be removed from the upgraded to include new WC facilities and a staff office. north façade and new openings creating for doors and a new window. The new doors will be in a powder coated metal finish for The building is a timber clad thatched roof structure and has robustness. To the south façade, the waney edge boarding will been altered in the past to accommodate an accessible WC with be removed, damaged panels discarded and new panels will be modification of the layouts for male and female WC’s. The interior mixed with the existing and relaid and refixed to close the existing is dated and externally, the thatched roof is in poor condition; openings. the external timber work requires repair and redecoration and some minor concrete repair is required to the plinth. The windows Internally, there will be lightweight plasterboard partitions between require corrosion treatment and redecoration. There is historic spaces and a HPL cubicle system for the WC’s. The flooring will movement evident to the building, which has been investigated be tiled and the walls decorated. There will be splashback tiling to by the wider consultant team; refer to the structural engineering the tea point and WC sinks. A new solid plasterboard ceiling will report for further details. be installed.

In addition to addressing the condition of the building, the interior will be reconfigured with the strip out of all internal partitions, fittings and services and the installation of new WC facilities, office and store. The brief for this building is as follows:

ƒƒRelocate all public WC access to the northern façade in 1.) Existing toilet block. order to reduce the existing risk of persons accessing WC’s 2.) Welcome building at Lyme Park, Cheshire. through the south elevation where there is low visibility and natural surveillance; 1. 2. ƒƒInclude a staff office in this position to increase the park staff interaction with the public, including space for a desk and tea point; ƒƒProvide an accessible WC; ƒƒProvide both male and female WC’s, with as many facilities as possible; ƒƒProvide an externally accessed store room.

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4.10 Toilet Block and Park Office

1. 1.) Proposed plan of Toilet block and Park Office

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4.11 Sensory Garden

The existing sensory garden is an area of hard paving, seating Curved low retaining walls are to be set into the slope to create a and raised planting beds alongside the pathways near to the stepped terraced garden area for ornamental sensory planting. A Thatched Shelter. Although this area provides a valued seating further smaller seating area in the same style will also be located area, from a heritage perspective it is seen as an unsympathetic further south along the riverside path. addition and the planting is coming to the end of it’s functional life. Formal seating next to the riverbank will retain views across to the The new design for this area of the park intends to return the southern section of the park whilst feeling sheltered and protected. current hard landscaped area back to amenity grassland with new tree planting while relocating the opportunity for new sensory The planting design will use species which have a sensory interest planting with seating alongside the River Sow. as well as being resilient to the occasional flooding event. 1.) The existing seating area, viewed from Coronation Bridge. The intention is to enlarge the area of existing seating next to the 2.) Plan of the proposed Sensory Garden area. river by cutting into the sloping landform to create a more intimate 3.) An example of curved seating with adjacent planting. and sheltered space surrounded by sensory planting.

1. 2. 3.

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4.12 Thatched Shelter

The Thatched Shelter was constructed in 1931 as consists of a timber framed structure with glazed panels, thatched roof, clock and weather vane, all set on a concrete base.

In order to restore the structure to it’s ‘former glory’ a number of defects require addressing including decoration, but the most significant is the replacement of the thatch.

1.) Extract from the Condition Survey 1. identifying defects.

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4.13 Catering Facility

The new catering facility provides an indoor facility with an opportunity for a wider range of produce. The brief for the new facility is as follows:

ƒƒSpace for 40 nr. indoor covers and 40 nr. outdoor covers; ƒƒPromote views of the park from the café; ƒƒSpace for kitchen and counter, fit out by the operator; ƒƒWC within building; ƒƒStore room; ƒƒPotential for catering facility to operate outside of park opening hours; ƒƒAccess along the riverside to be retained.

The positioning in the park is such that it is prominent and convenient to both park users and passers-by, and enables 360° views of the park. The footprint has been designed in such a way with a central core for services and ancillary spaces so that the entire façade is open to the park.

A bridge connects the park and the catering facility with the pedestrian route along Mill Walk, enabling direct access when the park is closed. Please note that this is not part of the HLF application but SBC are seeking planning approval for this and exploring funding options.

1.) Borden Park Pavilion, Edmonton, Canada (photo by Raymond Chow). 1. 2. 2.) Staveley Bridge, Cumbria. 3.) Sedum green roof. 4.) Victoria Park, London. 3. 4.

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4.13 Catering Facility

The structure is elevated above the existing ground level which enables level access to the park from Mill Walk, and maintains the pedestrian route along the banks of the River Sow below the bridge level.

Future Bridge Link Visually, the new catering facility appears as an elevated ‘drum’ which includes both the internal café space and the covered seating area. The façade of the drum will be a series of angled timber ‘sticks’ with full height facetted glazing behind to the internal catering facility and a glazed balustrade to the external seating area. These will be a combination of full height and low level to the covered seating area in order to provide clear and unobstructed views across the park. The angled structural columns supporting the roof reference the façade.

Externally, the floor finish will be a timber deck, and the soffit will be the exposed metal structure of the roof, which will include a sedum roof above. There will be lighting at low level within the timber floor. Internally, the café will be fitted out in partnership with the café operator.

The bridge structure will be a steel girder spanning from the external café to Mill Walk. The timber floor decking of the external café will extend across the bridge with integrated lighting at low level. The outer edge of the structure will be lined with a metal panel with a perforated pattern to match the grid of the cafe Future Bridge Link façade.

1.) Plan and elevation of the proposed cafe 1. and bridge.

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9 risers @ 150mm 74.35 4.14 Amphitheatre 74.65 73.00 74.95 75.25 75.40 75.55 75.70 75.75 74.20 73.90 73.60 The creation of a south facing amphitheatre linked to the café 74.50 73.30 74.50 aims to provide a space which can be used for a range of 74.75 75.75 75.50 75.00 75.25 73.00 activities from relaxing and simply enjoying the movement of water 1:21 gradient up 75.10 over the weir to a more formal, intimate arts performance. 74.25 74.55 74.20 74.50 75.50 73.90 73.60 74.05 75.00 73.30 73.75 73.45 The form is complementary to the circular appearance of the café 73.00 MILL WALK 73.15 74.50 and provides a smooth sinuous landform that links the existing 74.00 74.50 73.30 toilet block, through the amphitheatre and wrapping round under 73.50 75.00 the deck of the café. The landform is created by cutting back into 74.00 72.97 the bank and breaking down what currently is a rather abrupt edge 73.50 to the park by the removal of the large brick retaining wall.

STATION A performance space is provided by setting the amphitheatre back into the bank creating a stage area on the existing river edge.

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1.) Extract from the masterplan. 1. 2. 2.) Waterside amphitheatre and stage. 3.) Lunen, Germany. 4.) Sketch indicating the amphitheatre 3. 4.

CAR PARK

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NEWPORT ROAD 4.0 Design Proposals

4.14 Amphitheatre

The amphitheatre will be constructed using bespoke pre-cast concrete units with an exposed aggregate finish. Paving on the waterside will be a ‘tar and chip’ gravel finish. It is intended that a power supply is provided (above the level of flood risk) for events but will also enable park staff to connect a jet washer for cleansing operations.

1.) View across the Rover Sow towards the 1. amphitheatre and cafe.

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4.15 Mottram Shelter History The Alderman Mottram Shelter is a Grade II listed cast iron and timber structure that dates back to 1905. The Glasgow based Macfarlane company was a key figure in the production of Late- Victorian / Early Edwardian ironwork, particularly in Scotland. Shelters such as these were likely mass-produced and became a recognisable feature of municipal resorts and parks. ‘Despite the fact that iron founders’ shelters were usually generic examples, tailored for mass production, the range of designs chosen by municipal authorities in resorts reflected sensitivity to the creation of a distinct and localised place image.’ Historic images of the shelter depict it with a green and cream colour scheme with no infill to the upper panels within the shelter making it more transparent.

Proposed Works The proposed works to the Mottram Shelter are based on the principle of minimal intervention and reversal of previous, less sympathetic, interventions to refurbish and restore the existing structure to its original condition as understood from the Conservation Plan.

This includes general maintenance and redecoration, the removal of non-original infill panels and reinstatement of missing features such as the damaged filigree cast iron panels and finial. In addition to this the drainage connections will be reconfigured and the surrounding paving relaid.

1.) Proposed elevations of the Mottram Shelter 1.

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4.15 Mottram Shelter The only listed structure within the Park itself, the shelter has been heavily altered in the past with the insertion of steel upper panels and has been subject to vandalism resulting in the loss of much of the filigree fascia and parts of the lower timber boarding. This poor Stafford Borough Council has a number of the original filigree condition, missing panels and decorative elements, is obscuring panels in storage at the park and where possible these will be its heritage value and contribution to the wider heritage asset of cleaned, painted and refixed to the structure in their original Victoria Park. position. Where this is not possible, the sections will be utilised in order to create a cast for new filigree panels. The new panels The recommendation within the Conservation plan is to remove will be fixed directly to the original structure, where the lost filigree those aspects that have an intrusive presence in the Park or have were once fixed. a harmful impact on its heritage significance to serve to enhance the significance of individual elements within the Park, as well as The new finials to the roof ridge will be fixed to the structure the Park as a whole. beneath the existing zinc roof. The capping will be removed and the top of the zinc peeled back to enable the fixing through. Once In line with this recommendation, and the National Planning Policy complete the zinc roof will be cut back to shape and reformed and Framework, the philosophy of the proposed works to the Mottram sealed up to the finial. Shelter is to remove recent intrusive additions and to reinstate the missing decorative elements along with repairs required to Paint analysis has been carried out on the structure in order to address the deterioration of the condition of the existing fabric. understand the historic colour scheme and how this has changed over the years. The analysis report will act as a record of the Architectural paint research is being carried out to further changes to the shelter, and it will be reviewed in detail with understand the historical colour scheme and the intention is to Stafford Borough Council in the development of the proposed either replicate or re-interpret the original colour scheme. colour scheme. These combined works will reinstate our understanding of the The structure is open to all sides and access will remain as original shelter as identified in the Conservation plan. existing. The covered seating will be refurbished and will offer seating space for visitors. The impact of the proposed works is therefore considered to be low, as it will reinstate the original intention of the shelter which will Heritage Statement work to further enhance the significance of the heritage asset and The accompanying Conservation Plan identifies the Grade II listed its contribution to the park as a whole. Mottram Shelter with an overall significance of ‘High’ in particular for its evidential and historical value. As an original park feature, it is a visual representation of the Victorian-Edwardian transitional style and thus is a significant contributor to the character of the Park. 1.

1.) Mottram Shelter 2. 2.) Mottram Shelter and annual bedding

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9 risers @ 150mm an opportunity to respond to this demand by opening up the 74.35 74.65 73.00 74.95 75.25 75.40 75.55 75.70 75.75 74.20 southern side of the park and providing a more flexible space in 73.90 73.60 74.50 73.30

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74.75 75.75 which events such as outdoor cinema can take place. This reflects 75.50 75.00 75.25 73.00 1:21 gradient up 75.10 74.25 74.55

74.20 74.50 75.50 the original design intent by William Blackshaw for fine lawns 73.90 73.60 74.05 75.00 73.30 73.75 73.45 73.00 MILL WALK 73.15 74.50 defined by predominantly evergreen planting. 74.00 74.50 73.30 73.50 75.00 74.00 72.97

73.50 This arrangement utilises the bandstand at the head of the space for use as a stage for performance. STATION

In order to achieve this design 9 No. established trees would have to be removed, although we have limited this to Category B trees

(BS 5837) and retained all Category A trees. The planting belt to STATION ROAD Station Road provides an opportunity to mitigate this loss.

Structure planting on the boundary to Station Road will help screen the buildings beyond but also help to reduce the impact of noise from the road. The planting design will draw inspiration from examples such as Birkenhead Park where the use of a high proportion of evergreen species is extremely effective at blocking CAR PARK views.

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1.) Extract from the masterplan. 1. 2. 2.) Original design of Victoria Park by William Blackshaw. 3.) Existing view across the park towards the bandstand. 3.

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4.16 Events Space

The design indicates lighting around the edge of the grassed area which in conjunction with the planting will further define the events space. Catenery lighting is proposed above the events space to provide a more intimate atmosphere for evening events (this element of the lighting will be erected for special events only).

The proposals are to install a sports pitch style drainage system to provide a hard wearing surface that can cope with the increase in the number of events.

1. 1.) Illustration of the events space.

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4.17 Bandstand History Proposed Works

The bandstand was originally located in the town’s market square The existing structure is generally sound although it shows until c.1905 as it does not appear in photographs of the square evidence of timber decay and the rainwater disposal requires from 1906. It is probable that the bandstand was moved at this attention. Generally, to the existing structure works are limited time. It is an octagonal timber and cast iron structure with a non- to maintenance and refurbishment of the existing bandstand original felted roof, mounted by an original finial. The band stand along with the alterations required to extend the stage in order to is referenced frequently in relation to weekly concert events, facilitate larger events within the park. It is intended that the new including gramophone concerts, managed by the Victoria Pleasure facility will support events as identified in the Activity Plan. Ground Music Committee. The refurbishment works include the repair and redecoration of 1.) The existing bandstand. The bandstand platform sits uncomfortably high in relation to the existing structure, balustrade, ceiling and floor. The roof felt 2.) Wandle Park, London. the setting, presumably as a direct consequence of relocating a will be removed and the existing roof will be over-clad in zinc with 3.) Music performance. structure from elsewhere rather than a bespoke solution for the roll mould details at 600mm centres (to reflect the original lead park. This provides some compromises to its operation within the covering without the risk of theft) and the existing rain water pipes park. will be removed and replaced with cast aluminium down pipes in the same positions. 1. 2. 3.

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4.17 Bandstand

Paint analysis has been carried out on the bandstand and the colour scheme will be developed from the findings. However, given that the bandstand is not original to the park, nor listed, the colour scheme will likely take reference from the proposals for the Mottram Shelter. This does not necessarily designate the same colour scheme for both structures, but ensures a harmonious and coordinated scheme across the park led by the findings and significance of the Mottram Shelter.

Four sections of railings will be removed to facilitate the inclusion of a new stepped access and stage area. The stage will be formed halfway between the level of the bandstand deck and the surrounding ground level. Natural stone steps will provide the link above and below. To soften the impact of this structure two planting beds will be incorporated either side of the base of the steps.

The existing storage area below the bandstand will be retained, with a new access hatch created to the rear of the stair between the proposed planting. This surrounding landscaping will work to ‘ground’ the structure within the park and address the elongated proportions created by the concrete plinth.

The access arrangements to the bandstand will remain as existing, with stepped access only. The high level of the bandstand platform and space which would be required for ramped access are not appropriate for this existing structure.

1.) Visualisation of the proposed 1. improvements to the Bandstand.

February 2016 page 55 5.0 Access and Movement

5.1 Access and Movement The two most heavily used entrances, at Station Road and Mill Bank will be improved to provide a welcoming visage to the park.

The main path through the park will be redefined and resurfaced to provide a consistent 3m wide ‘spine’ route, past the Mottram Shelter, through the proposed events space and across Coronation Bridge to the northern section of the park exiting at the Mill Gate entrance. The same surface treatment will be used throughout all of all the parks paths improving the current poor surface condition, with the exception of Izaak Walton Walk (PRoW 42, Cycle Route 5), as this has a suitable surface treatment already.

The access to the park from the car park on Tenterbanks will be closed and used to create a safe loading and unloading area for park refuse.

Vehicular access will be maintained as is with the addition of access to the new depot area from within the existing car park on Tenterbanks. Other vehicular access is provided from the maintenance gates on the north western boundary close to the War Memorial.

1.) Plaque set in Izaak Walton Walk 1. 2. 2.) Izaak Walton Walk 3.) Gateway on Victoria Road 4.) Coronation Bridge over the River Sow 3. 4.

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5.1 Access and Movement A new inclusive access bridge will be created from Mill Walk to the new catering facility over the River Sow and the Mill Pond, this allows opening hours for the catering facility to extend beyond those of the park, as well as providing another accessible entrance into the northern section of the park, other than that of Coronation Bridge.

The existing toilet block will be reconfigured to allow access from the northern façade in order to reduce the existing risk of persons accessing WC’s through the south elevation where there is low visibility and natural surveillance, this reconfiguration will create room for an accessible toilet.

Victoria Park is well placed in relation to town, with the spine path a major route to the centre from the train station, and widely used by commuters every day.

1. 1.) Thatched Shelter

February 2016 page 57 6.0 Sustainability

6.1 Sustainability The proposals include for the refurbishment of the existing footpaths through the park where possible, this refurbishment will be limited to the top dressing of the path with a ‘tar and chip’ coating. Where the surface condition will not allow this, a new wearing course will be used and a full build up reserved only for areas of new hard landscape, this approach ensures the minimum amount of waste is generated from the proposals.

The retention and protection of existing high quality vegetation and trees throughout the site and the proposals for further tree and shrub planting will replace low quality and unhealthy stock, and improve the biodiversity of the site.

The scheme incorporates a sustainable dranage system including an attenuation tank and rainwater havesting tank. The tank will store water to be used for irrigating the bowling green and hence reduce reliance on a conventional water main.

1. 2. 1.) Hostas and Alliums in Victoria Park 2.) Bridge over the Mill Pond 3.) Paths through southern section of the park 3.

page 58 February 2016 6.0 Sustainability MA344, Victoria Park, Stafford Troup Bywaters + Anders Building Services Strategy and Renewable Energy Report

Figure 5 – Proposed Energy Conservation Measures for the buildings 6.1 Sustainability As part of the project brief, there is a clear aim to reduce site energy use and carbon emissions through the use of appropriate technology.

The energy strategy for the new buildings on the site has been developed on a hierarchical basis - “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”, this method priorities conservation to reduce the overall demand for power.

This strategy will be achieved by

ƒƒMaximising daylighting ƒƒUse of high quality thermal insulation ƒƒPassive ventilation ƒƒSpecification of lower water demand equipment ƒƒEfficient lighting and control

Alongside this strategy, low carbon energy generation measures have been selected for the catering facility.

Several methods and technologies where considered, however the most efficient and suitable solution is to utilise a water source heat pump within the River Sow. This pump will draw heat from the river and provide space heating to the indoor seating area within the new catering facility, via an under floor heating system.

The lower operational heating cost will also be an attractive August 2016 10 Rev 00 prospect for any potential tenants.

1. 1.) Energy conservation measures diagram form Stage 3 MEP report 2. 2.) River Sow

February 2016 page 59 7.0 Consultation

7.1 Initial Consultation

A number of different types of consultation events had been carried out prior to this design phase and are summarised in the Consultation Date Type Completed No. Aim of Consultation table opposite. by Respondents

There are a number of trends that can be established from this Jubilee Event Survey June 2012 Face-to-face SBC 75 To establish the overall level of satisfaction with consultation. The majority of people would like to see: Victoria Park.

ƒƒMore facilities to encourage more frequent visits and longer Visitor Survey Summer 2012 Face-to-face SBC 52 As above. stays; ƒƒImproved café with sheltered seating; Online Survey 2013 Online SBC 56 To refine the understanding of visitors and to inform the development of proposals to improve ƒƒPublic toilets improved; the park. ƒƒAccess to War Memorial improved; Stakeholder Engagement Jan-July 2014 Various face-to- SBC - To determine stakeholder issues and aspirations ƒƒRetain and improve the aviary; face meetings in relation to the current and future management ƒƒGreenhouses used for demonstration and horticulture; of the Park; and to determine potential for forming partnerships. ƒƒBandstand restored and used for music & events; and ƒƒMore events in the park. Visitor Survey Spring 2014 Face-to-face Stafford College 99 To gain an understanding of the demographic Students profile of Park users.

Students and Staff from 2014 Online Stafford College 203 To gain an understanding of if and how students Stafford College Survey Students and lecturers from Stafford College use the Park.

Online Survey Apr-June 2014 Online SBC 134* To obtain visitors opinions on the design proposals for the Park.

Facebook Survey Apr-June 2014 Online SBC 45* To obtain visitors opinions on the design proposals for the Park.

Your Park Your Vision Jul-Aug 2014 Online SBC 146 To ensure that proposals to restore the Park are Survey backed by the local community.

Public Consultation August 2014 Event SBC 437 To allow people to view the master plan Event proposals and discuss the project.

Online Survey February 2015 Online SBC 43 To establish how the Park is used, barriers to its use and knowledge of the Friends of Victoria Park group.

* Unclear as to exact numbers

1.) Summary of previous consultation. 1.

page 60 February 2016 7.0 Consultation

7.2 Development Stage Consultation Easter Holiday ‘Fun in the Park’ Event The first public consultation event of the ‘development stage’ was held in the park on 29th March 2016. This was arranged Question Response in conjunction with a circus skills and face painting event which helped boost visitor numbers. The event received good publicity before and after the event in newspapers and online. Part 1 Evaluation and Monitoring On a scale of 1-10 (1 = very poor, 10 = excellent) 500 leaflets were distributed and 32 questionnaires were completed on the day. Despite the relatively small number of How satisfied are you with the park? 7.5

completions in the park there were some strong trends. How would you rate the overall condition of the park? 8.0

Part 1 of the questionnaire was aimed at gaining statistics for How much does the park enhance the quality of 8.2 evaluation and monitoring. In summary, people are generally your life? satisfied with the condition of the park, but there is room for How well do you understand the history and heritage 4.4 improvement. In terms of heritage questions, these scored low of the park? and should certainly be a focus moving forward. How well is the history of the park explained within 4.1 Part 2 investigated the emerging design options and there was the park itself? a strong backing for the proposals which can provide confidence moving forward. This is probably a reflection on the approach to Part 2 Design the project which was to build on the existing proposals in line with Are you in favour of the southern side of the park Yes 97% the principles established during earlier consultations. being used as an ‘events space’ using the bandstand as a stage for events such as music and outdoor Part 3 was centred on Activity Planning which generated further cinema? support for a whole host of events and confirmation that they Are you in favour of a proposed café on the site of Yes 97% would like to attend events in the future. Some people identified the existing aviary (assuming that a new aviary is groups that may well be interested in using the park, and this constructed adjacent)? information has informed this element of the project. Are you in favour of a ‘horticultural and education Yes 97% centre’ incorporating a new aviary, greenhouse, external and internal classroom?

Part 3 Activity Planning

1. Do you have any ideas for specific activities or Music and family events? focused events 2. 1.) Consultation boards illustrating the proposals. 2.) Circus skills event in the park. 3. 3.) Face painting in the Venables Pavilion.

February 2016 page 61 7.0 Consultation

7.2 Development Stage Consultation Share Your Summer With Us The ‘Share your summer with us’ event was held on the 10th June in the town centre at Market Square and was a promotion of the Question Response range of summer events taking place in Stafford over the summer.

Leaflets were distributed and 44 questionnaires were completed Part 1 Evaluation and Monitoring on the day. Are you aware of Victoria Park? Yes 100% Part 1 of the questionnaire was aimed at gathering information on the public’s awareness of the Park and the frequency of their On average how often do you visit the park? 47% Visit on a visits. Results indicate that 47% of the public return to the park weekly basis weekly. Part 2 Design

Part 2 again investigated the emerging design options with Are you in favour of a proposed café on the site of Yes 88% equally strong backing for the ‘event space’ and ‘horticultural and the existing aviary (assuming that a new aviary is education centre’. constructed adjacent)?

Part 3 focused on Activity Planning and comments received Are you in favour of the southern side of the park being used as an ‘events space’ using the bandstand Yes 100% tended to support more events (with suggestions for live music, as a stage for events such as music and outdoor exercise classes, arts/culture/literature/history/conservation talks, cinema? fun for kids, and late nights). Every person who returned the questionnaire indicated interest in attending future events at the Are you in favour of a ‘horticultural and education Yes 97% centre’ incorporating a new aviary, greenhouse, park. external and internal classroom?

An additional section asked for further comments in relation to Part 3 Activity Planning the questions above and for comments on the ‘masterplan’. In general, these comments were positive and welcoming of the Would you be interested in attending events in the Yes 100% park (such as outdoor cinema, party in the park, and proposed Park restoration and improvements, providing many music festivals)? suggestions for future events. There were a small number of concerns over the café proposals as well as potential water safety issues.

1.

2. 1.) Share your Summer event. 2.) Consultation boards illustrating the proposals. 3. 3.) Share your Summer event.

page 62 February 2016 7.0 Consultation

7.2 Development Stage Consultation Party In the Park Party in the Park is an annual event carried out on the 3rd July in Victoria Park. During the event Stafford Borough Council and TEP Question At the On-line Total Event provided information to park users on the plans for the restoration of the Park which had developed since the ‘Share your Summer With Us’ event. The event attracted large crowds due to organised First Section - Design Proposals activities including the annual ‘duck race’.

Yes Leaflets were distributed and 59 questionnaires were completed Are you in favour of the design for the Yes Yes entrance from Mill Bank (town centre) 96% 80% 88% on the day. A further 141 questionnaires were completed online. incorporating the education centre, greenhouse and aviary as shown in The first section of the questionnaire focussed on the main design our image? proposals (see questions to the right) whilst the second section asked for any further comments in relation to the ‘masterplan’. Are you in favour of the layout and Yes Yes Yes design for the proposed café and 89% 73% 81% There are slight differences between the feedback received on the bridge as shown on the plans and day and online. The public tended to be more vocal in their views images? online.

Comments on the day were generally positive and in favour of the Are you in favour of the design for Yes Yes Yes restoring the bandstand, incorporating 98% 85% 91% proposed changes. Comments which came through online were a stage for performance and informal more detailed and suggested specific changes to the designs, seating as shown in our image? although most respondents were in favour of the proposals

Are you in favour of opening up access Yes Yes Yes to the war memorial from the park as 98% 90% 94% shown in our image? *

* Please note that we undertook consultation on whether to introduce steps and a connection to the war memorial, however this does not form part of this planning application

1. 1.) Consultation at the ‘Party in the Park’ event

February 2016 page 63 7.0 Consultation

7.2 Development Stage Consultation Friends of Victoria Park Group As part of the design process TEP has attended a number of meetings with the Friends of Victoria Park in order to undertake detailed consultation with the group.

The Friends Group responded to TEP’s initial proposals in May 2016 with a letter summarising some concerns, and suggesting alternative solutions. TEP considered the comments made and adjustments to the designs were made. For instance it was felt that the groups concerns regarding an enlarged area of paving near the War Memorial, was a valid point and this was then omitted from the design. TEP provided the Friends Group with a detailed response in August 2016, outlining where changes have been made and why, and why not in other cases.

This process of consultation has led to the improvement of the designs and in September 2016 the Friends group provided their backing to the masterplan which is subject to this Planning Application.

1.) Consultation Event 1.

page 64 February 2016 7.0 Consultation

7.2 Development Stage Consultation Local History ƒƒHistoric Environment Record Leisure and Tourism Activity Plan ƒƒWilliam Salt Library, Stafford and Stafford Record Office ƒƒEnjoy Staffordshire As part of TEP’s Activity Plan we have consulted the following ƒƒStaffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Archive Service ƒƒVisit Stafford groups and organisations :- ƒƒStaffordshire Heritage Group and Stafford History Group ƒƒXplorer Wildlife and Ornithology ƒƒStafford Historical & Civic Society ƒƒStaffordshire Walkers ƒƒStaffordshire Wildlife Trust ƒƒStaffordshire County Council Heritage Department ƒƒSustrans ƒƒStaffordshire Bat Group ƒƒStaffordshire Archaeology and Historical Society ƒƒStafford Borough Walking for Health ƒƒOrnithologist at The Environment Partnership (TEP) ƒƒRoy Lewis (Local Historian) ƒƒStafford Rambling Group/ Stafford Ramblers ƒƒGentleshaw Wildlife Centre ƒƒEducation ƒƒStafford Morris Men ƒƒBritish Bird Council and National Council for Aviculture (NCA) ƒƒSouth Staffordshire College ƒƒStafford Riverway Link ƒƒBritish Trust for Ornithologists ƒƒStafford College ƒƒStafford University of the Third Age ƒƒStaffordshire Bird News ƒƒStafford Train Station (Virgin Trains) Education ƒƒStafford FM Local Interest Groups ƒƒStafford Manor Academy (originally Stafford Sports College) ƒƒStaffordshire Gardens and Parks Trust ƒƒ ƒƒ ƒƒFeelgood Stafford Magazine Blessed William Howard Catholic High School Konnektiv Dramatherapy ƒƒ ƒƒ ƒƒFriends of Victoria Park King Edward VI High School Stage Coach - Stafford and Stone ƒƒ ƒƒBroadeye Radio Sir Graham Belfour School ƒƒ ƒƒCastletown and Virginia Residents Association St Austin's Catholic Primary Festivals and Events ƒƒ ƒƒSt Pauls CE Primary Stafford Burgesses/ The Stafford Freemen's Guild ƒƒQ in the Park Festival ƒƒSt Leonard's Primary ƒƒStafford Music Festival Society ƒƒJohn Wheeldon Primary Military ƒƒBeggars' Oak Clog Dancers ƒƒSt Patricks Primary ƒƒRoyal British Legion ƒƒGatehouse Theatre ƒƒSt Johns Primary ƒƒRoyal British Legion- Stafford Branch ƒƒStafford Knot Spinners ƒƒRowley Park Primary Academy ƒƒMilitary History Society (W Midlands branch) ƒƒStafford Indian Social Club ƒƒPenkridge Beavers ƒƒThe War Memorials Trust ƒƒStafford Sports and Performance Academy ƒƒRainbows ƒƒAll Woman Choir: Stafford ƒƒBrownies ƒƒGirl Guides ƒƒSunday School Other ƒƒStaffordshire Police (Crime Prevention Design Advisor) ƒƒThe Social Hub ƒƒNOVA Training ƒƒVAST

February 2016 page 65 HEAD OFFICE GATESHEAD LONDON MARKET HARBOROUGH CORNWALL

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