Queens Gardens Heritage Appraisal

Prepared for Hull City Council July 2019 Executive Summary

A Brief Overview of the Report

Queens Gardens was constructed in 1935 as a new park at the heart of the city. The park was built on the site of Queens Dock, once the largest dock in Britain. The site has provided a focal point for the people of Hull for over 230 years since the dock opened in 1778. The gardens were built to provide refuge from the noise, smell, grime and bustle of business life.

Queens Gardens was refurbished and lowered by architect Frederick Gibberd in 1950 to create a dock like character.

Located within the city centre, Queens Gardens is sited adjacent to Hull College and enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of visitors a year.

This report has been prepared to support and guide proposed improvement and enhancement works to Queens Gardens. It documents Queens Gardens’ heritage assets, analysing hard and soft landscape elements, existing features and historic map information.

The Heritage Appraisal brings together Fiona Green’s historic landscape research with our own site analysis, presenting the findings through appropriate illustrations, diagrams and written text.

Revision Description By Chk. Date - First Draft for comment and approval CM LHu 30.07.19 A Revised following receipt of comments from HCC SH LHu 04.11.19

2 Executive Summary Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 3

The Overall Significance of the Site Heritage Significance

• Queens Gardens is of considerable interest having been re- designed to its present form by Frederick Gibberd, one of England’s most distinguished 20th-century architects and landscape architects. • The gardens are believed to be one of only two surviving examples of Frederick Gibberd’s design for civic gardens. • The gardens are a rare example of a post-war garden designed to include sculpture. • The preceding layout of the gardens was described by The Gardeners’ Chronicle in 1935 and said to include the largest illuminated fountain in the country (retained by Gibberd). • The gardens have played an enduring role in providing amenity space for the community of Hull since the 1930s. • The site is adjacent to Hull’s Old Town Conservation Area. • The gardens are close to buildings designed by Frederick Gibberd & Partners during a relationship of over 20 years between the practice and the City of Hull. • Since 1935 the gardens have been the location of a monument to William Wilberforce (1759 - 1833), Grade II listed.

Key Policies for Conservation

Proposals to improve the site should seek to conserve the historic layout and features and enhance Queens Gardens to current access standards and improve the link between the Maritime Museum and North End Shipyard.

Funding for Queens Gardens falls outside of the NLHF ‘Hull: Yorkshire’s Maritime City’ application. However, works to the southern dock walls and the pedestrian link between the Maritime Museum and North End Shipyard are considered important in the success of the NLHF project. These improvements will provide a link for visitors to connect people with heritage in a safe, inviting and fun manner that will benefit the local economy and surrounding businesses.

This will encourage wider community involvement in the future care and maintenance of Queens Gardens, which will help protect its future.

Executive Summary 5 Contents Contents

Section 1 Introduction8

Section 2 Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 12

Section 3 Landscape Analysis 40

Section 4 Statement of Significance 60

Section 5 Chronology66

Section 6 Sources69

Section 7 Appendices70

Contents Section 1 Introduction

1.0 Authorship of the Plan

This Heritage Appraisal was prepared and led by Southern Green Ltd, with support from Carl Lewis, Hull City Council Project Manager, and a team of specialist heritage consultants overseen by Purcell Architects, as detailed below:

Client Hull City Council

Principle Designer/ Architect Purcell

Landscape Architect Southern Green Ltd

Project Management Hull City Council

Structural Engineer Mason Clark Associates

M&E Engineer TGA Engineering

Interpretation Designer Haley Sharp Design

Arborist SPI

Ecology SAP Ecology

Garden Historian Fiona Green

8 Section 1 - Introduction 1.1 Scope of the Report

This Heritage Appraisal is designed to inform the conservation, repair, use, management and possible alteration of this important green space within the city centre of Hull.

The document assesses and sets out what is important about the buildings and landscape and their significance based upon readily available information. The information gathered is then considered in an assessment of cultural significance, for the site as a whole and for its various parts, and then summarised to form a statement of significance. The purpose of establishing the importance of the site is to identify and asses the attributes which make a place of value to our society.

Once significance is understood, informed policy decisions can be made which will enable that significance to be retained, revealed, enhanced or, at least, impaired as little as possible in any future decisions for the site. A clear understanding of the nature and degree of the significance of the feature will not simply suggest constraints on future action. Instead it will introduce flexibility by identifying the areas which can be adapted or developed with greater freedom.

Using the data that has been collected from detailed research, a set of policies, or guidelines, have been established that will inform the conservation, repair, management and use of the gardens according to best conservation practice.

1.2 Gaps and Limitations

Any further information which becomes available after the completion of this report should be acknowledged by the client and incorporated into future revisions.

1.3 Other Documents

This report links to NLHF H:YMC RIBA Stage 3 Design and Access report: • HYMC-SGR-XX-RP-L-0001-S2-P02_Design and Access Report

Section 1 - Introduction 9 1.4 Study Area

Located within the city centre, Queens Gardens is located between Hull Maritime Museum and Hull College. The gardens are enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of visitors a year and the site hosts events during the summer months.

1.4.1 Conservation Areas

The study area borders the Hull Old Town Conservation Area. Hull Maritime Museum Guildhall Road forms the southern boundary of Queens Gardens which demarcates the start of the Conservation Area and wraps around the outer extent of the Rose Bowl to the west.

1.4.2 Listed Buildings

Queens Gardens is surrounded by a number of significant listed buildings:

Grade II* 1. Hull Maritime Museum Guildhall 2. Guildhall Grade II 3. Bonding Warehouse 4. Wilberforce Monument

1.4.3 Registered Park

Queens Gardens is not included on Historic England’s Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest.

Bonding Warehouse 1.4.4 Ownerships, leases and covenants

Queens Gardens is owned and maintained by Hull City Council.

Wilberforce Monument

10 Section 1 - Introduction North End Shipyard Hull College 4

Queens 3 Gardens

Hull 2 Maritime Museum 1

Hull Minster

New Bridge Crossing

Fruit Market The Deep

Humber

LEGEND Study Area Key route from Paragon Interchange Conservation Area Maritime Interpretation Route

Section 1 - Introduction 11 Section 2 Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape

2.1 Introduction

2.1.1 Commission

Fiona Green was commissioned by Southern Green to provide an appraisal of the historic designed landscape at Queens Gardens as part of the Heritage Appraisal report commissioned for Hull City Council

2.1.2 Acknowledgements

Thanks are due to the Gibberd Garden Trust for providing copied drawings of the water garden at Harlow New Town.

12 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 2.2 History of Designed Landscape at Queens Gardens

2.2.1 Queens Dock

Queens Dock was instigated in 1773 to combat smuggling after an ultimatum from the Commissioner of Customs who was concerned about the loss of dues which the Crown was entitled to. 1 The dock was the earliest dock in Hull and was completed in 1778. It was also the largest inland dock in Britain at the time. 2,3 The structure was designed by Henry Berry of Liverpool and John Grundy of Lincolnshire assisted by Luke Holt as engineer. 4 The dock was entered through a lock from Queens Dock basin and amounted to 10½ acres of water and 14½ acres of land. Alfred Smith’s plan of Hull (1823) shows the ‘Old

Fig. 1. Plan of Kingston upon Hull with the environs A. Smith 1822-23

1 Alston H.F. (1959) Queens Gardens Kingston upon Hull Journal of Town Planning Institute March pp. 93-95 2 ibid. 3 Notes by Andrew Knight for Hull Public Art Dock’ and remaining sections of the town walls (fig.1).5 Strategy. Hull City Council n.d. Following a visit by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1854 the dock 4 Hull City Council Economic Development was renamed Queens Dock. The dock became redundant when larger and Regeneration Department. Masterplan Guidance, Queens Gardens Hull 2013. modern docks were built at the Riverside Quay in 1907 and the King 5 Smith, A. 1822-23 Plan of Hull with the George Dock in 1914. Environs

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 13 Fig. 2 Design for laying out Queens Dock 1879

2.2.2 The Queens Gardens Scheme

In 1879, plans were made to fill the dock but there were proposals to retain some water in the basin to create ‘Venice in Hull’ (figs. 2 and 3). The scheme was to retain a link to a waterway which ran underneath Monument Bridge and towards Dock Street. Plans were submitted by an architect T. Brownlow Thompson but rejected due to cost. 6

In the aftermath of the Great Depression the 1930s, a period of renewal in the British planning system commenced. The notion of creating a ‘perfect world’ had already taken hold in planning theory before the First World War. This occurred after Ebenezer Howard published literature such as Garden Cities of Tomorrow in 1902. Howard in turn was influenced by Le Playist who promoted the benefits of a good environment to society. 7 The theme was taken forward by one landscape designer in particular, Thomas Mawson (1861-1933). Mawson planned the layout for Lord Leverhulme’s model village for workers at Port Sunlight, Liverpool in 1910. The design approach aimed to provide the qualities of town and country for all.

6 Campbell, J (2019) 7 Forgotten plans for Queens Gardens that never saw light of day Hull Daily Mail 28.04.2019 7 Marmaras E.V. (2015) British Town Planning on the eve of the Second World War.

14 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape Fig. 3 Queens Dock prior to redevelopment

Queens Gardens was built over the site of the derelict dock (figs. 4 and 5). The scheme was part of two substantial improvements made in the city of Hull in 1935, the other being Ferensway. The redundant dock site impeded development of a central area of Hull as it separated the northern half of the town from the southern half. The regeneration of the area was crucial to the development of the surrounding area which included proposals for a range of important civic and commercial buildings. When completed, the Town Planning Review commented ‘the scheme had virtually revolutionised the whole orientation of the central area, and has brought the centre of gravity of the city a good deal nearer to the river Hull’. 8

8 The Town Planning Review Vol.16 No.4 (Dec 1935) pp 311-312

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 15 Fig. 4 1893 Ordnance Survey showing Queens Dock, the Old Harbour and Princes Dock

Fig. 5 1928 Ordnance Survey showing development of civic buildings in the area the Guildhall, to the south east, City Hall, to the south west and Ferens Art Gallery, to the south, by this time the dock was no longer in use 16 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 2.2.3 The Inception of Queens Gardens

In January 1930 the Queens Dock Committee discussed a Draft Agreement for the purchase of the Queens Dock Estate comprising: Queens Dock, Queens Dock Basin, quays, warehouses and buildings connected including Queens Dock Chambers, Dock Office Chambers, Oriental Buildings, and also to sell approx. 50 sq. yards of land abutting Whitefriargate, together with all the estate and interest of the company in the mines and minerals for an inclusive price of £117,000. The vendors were the London and North Eastern Railway Company. The purchase price was to be paid according to various requirements including the completion of Company’s Obligations as to filling in of the Dock. The Company was to deposit in the Dock maintenance dredgings removed from the Town Docks or other convenient source to 75% volume of the Dock. (fig.6)9.

Fig. 6 Aerial view of docks in use during mid 1920’s. Many prominent buildings are also visible.

9 Hull History Centre. Minutes of Queens Dock Committee January 1930 pp. 3-6

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 17 Fig. 7 Aerial view of docks and Hull city from Lutyens and Abercrombie (1946) 2.3 Construction of Queens Gardens and Features

2.3.1 Queens Gardens first design phase

After being filled in the dock was laid out as lawns and gardens (figs. 7,8). It is not known who was responsible for the design but the layout can be seen in photographs taken after the gardens were completed (figs. 9 and 10). 10

Photographs show a formal layout in the modernist tradition which was fashionable during the 1930s. The site was divided by a central axis, Wilberforce Avenue, which was aligned on circular features, supporting at the east end a newly relocated monument to William Wilberforce (1759-1833), and, on the west side, a fountain pond and rosary. The gardens were divided in the centre by a road, Grimston Drive, and the layout on either side differed. The west quadrants were laid out with circular rockeries on either side. The East quadrants were each divided by arch shaped paths with linear display beds alongside the central walks, circular beds are shown in the centre. Wilberforce Avenue was bordered by paths each side. Lighting columns are shown along the 10 The Gardener’s Chronicle alludes to the centre of the avenue and adjacent to the boundary railings. By the possibility of Sir Alfred Gelder (1855-1941) 1940s a postcard shows benches were in place along Wilberforce taking a lead in the design but this remains unclear. Avenue (figs.8, 9). The southern boundary of the gardens retains the 11 Hull City Council Economic Development definition of the original old town walls. 11 Planting the new gardens and Regeneration Department. Masterplan was supervised by Mr. East. 12 The gardens were opened by Labour Guidance, Queens Gardens Hull 2013. MP Herbert Morrison as a public park in 1935 and, as such, were a key 12 Hull Corporation Parks and Burial Committee Minutes 10/04/1935. Minute no. element of the 1930s redesign of the city centre. 108 p. 110

18 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape Fig. 8 Plan of Phase 1 layout for Queens Gardens from Architectural Design 1952 2.3.2 Gardeners’ Chronicle description of Queens Gardens 1935

The Gardeners’ Chronicle was complimentary in their review of the new gardens.

‘The completion of one of the most ambitious civic schemes of recent times was marked by the official opening on Thursday, September 19, of the new Queen’s Gardens in the centre of Hull. Five years ago this now pleasant park was a derelict dock, isolating the older southern part of Hull from the north, with which connection was maintained by two narrow bridges - one closed to heavy traffic. The dock itself was the first to be built in Hull, completed in 1778; and recent extensions by bigger and up-to-date docks and wharves rendered Queen’s Dock obsolete. The question of what to do with it was debated long and warmly. So long ago as 1879, the late James Reckitt offered prizes for a city improvement scheme which should include the abolition of Queen’s Dock. In later years the movement took shape under the active leadership of Sir Alfred Gelder, one of Hull’s most famous architects; and in 1929 a resolution was finally passed and later sanctioned by Act of Parliament, to fill in the whole dock and convert it into a public garden. The site, including ten-and-a-half acres of water and fourteen-and-a-half acres of surrounding land and buildings was bought from the London and North Eastern Railway for £117,000. Work began four years ago, The Railway Company providing the filling up of the first two-thirds of the dock free, by dredging silt from the River Humber and depositing by lighters, thus gradually driving out the water. When insufficient draught remained the work was continued by dumping soil, sand,

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 19 Fig. 9 View of Queens Gardens after completion 1930s

Fig. 10 View of fountain Queens Gardens after completion 1930s

demolition debris and the like. In all, over twelve million cubic feet of space was filled in, the cost of the operation, including the demolition of old buildings on the surrounding site, being originally estimated at £40,000. (c. £1.7m today) Finally, the whole area was laid out in lawns and flower beds, intersected with wide paths and avenues.

Two important features dominate the completed gardens. At one end

20 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape Fig. 11 Ordnance Survey 1949 - 1950 has been erected the biggest illuminated fountain in the country, sixty feet across, with five forty-feet high sprays of forty jets each. Sprays and lights can by pre-selected electrically, and are capable of a non- stop programme of constantly changing effects occupying thirty-seven minutes for each full cycle. The importance of the scheme does not end with providing Hull with one of the biggest public amenity achievements in the country. Queen’s Gardens completely alters the lay-out of the city, bringing its centre of gravity down to what was the southerly fringe of the business quarter, and opening up for development what was a virtual island of dock-surrounded land, accessible only by two canal bridges and incapable of being developed as rapidly as the growing size and prosperity of the city demanded. Another fine bit of work was the removal of the Wilberforce Memorial from the centre of the town and its re-erection at one end of Queen’s Gardens’. 13

The Queens Gardens project was overseen by Sir W. Alfred Gelder JP who was presented with a pictorial record of the construction works in 1935, in recognition of his ‘conception and devoted supervision of this great scheme’ (figs. 12, 13 14 and 15).14

13 The Gardeners’ Chronicle September 28 1935 p.221 14 Frontpiece to Pictorial Record of Construction of Queens Gardens, Hull History Centre C DMX/39

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 21 Fig. 12 Queens Dock following drainage

Fig. 13 Drainage operation Queens Dock

22 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape Fig. 14 Filling in Queens Dock in preparation for construction of Queens Gardens

Fig. 15 Lorries from the National Radiator Company are seen dumping foundry waste to fill in the dock, this was completed in 1934. From Thompson (1990)

Fig. 16 The relocated Wilberforce Monument 1935

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 23 2.3.3 Illuminated fountain

The fountain was designed as a corresponding feature to the relocated Wilberforce Monument, sited at the east end of the gardens (fig. 17). The fountain is believed to be one of the earliest of its kind in the country using innovative lighting displays. Located at the west end of the gardens the basin was 60 feet in diameter with a system of 360 sprays, which could be illuminated in numerous colour combinations. 15,16 The adjacent flower beds were also illuminated, providing a coordinated design.

Fig. 17 Queens Gardens fountain

2.3.4 Wilberforce Monument (Grade II)

William Wilberforce (1759-1833) was born in Hull. He was MP for Yorkshire and from 1789 introduced bills to parliament to abolish the slave trade. It was not until three days before he died that slavery in the British Colonies was finally abolished. In 1834 W.H. Clark from Leeds was commissioned to design a monument and column in honour of Wilberforce (fig.18). The column was 90ft high and the statue 12ft high and was paid for by voluntary subscription at a cost of £1,250.

‘Wilberforce’; ‘Negro Slavery Abolished, 1 Aug. MCCCXXXIV’; ‘First Stone Laid, 1 August 1834’ and ‘Erected by Voluntary Subscription’.

15 Town Planning Review Vol. 16. No. 4 (Dec. Originally the monument stood in Queen Victoria Square, adjacent to 1935) pp 311-12 16 Hull History Centre Queens Dock Prince’s Dock, but a century after installation it was considered a traffic Committee Minutes 1934-1935 hazard and moved to the east end of Queens Gardens in 1935. Ladders

24 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape in the tower allowed visitors to climb up and take in the view for 2/6d during the day and 1/- at night. The Wilberforce statue was displayed in a marquee with artefacts relating to slavery. An advertisement in the Hull Daily Mail at the time read ‘Electricity removes Wilberforce from his resting place in a few moments/ This Slave Emancipator helped on his journey by the modern abolisher of slavery in the home and factory/ Let electricity help you in your daily work and make your life easier and happier. 17

The operation lasted four months and a deed box was placed in the foundation stone. The box contained; photographs and maps showing the old and new locations, a description of removal reasons and methods used to move the monument, typed on velum, page from Hull Times 18th May 1935, notes and booklets about Tarran industries, a Jubilee Crown coin, Wilberforce House Medal of 1906, examples of coins from 1935 and a copy of the Hull Daily Mail. 18,19 The monument was ‘opened’ by Herbert Morrison and rededicated by Wilberforce’s great granddaughter Mrs Arnold Reckitt.

Fig. 18 Unveiling of Wilberforce Monument after relocation in 1935

17 secondary source Oldfield J.R. (2007) 2.3.5 City of Hull Post WWII Chords of Freedom, Commemoration, Ritual & British Transatlantic Slavery p. 69 86 major air raids in 1942 caused devastation across the city, with Hull 18 Tarran was a local builder and city becoming the most bombed city outside London (fig.19). However councillor. ibid. Oldfield J.R. (2007) 19 notes on Moving the Wilberforce key buildings around the Queens Gardens including the Wilberforce Monument - Hull Museums Collections monument were largely spared. As a result of the bomb damage, the corporation commissioned Professor Patrick Abercrombie (1879-1957),

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 25 an eminent town planner, to provide a plan for rebuilding the city. 20 Abercrombie, working in collaboration with Edwin Lutyens, (1869-1944) published ‘A Plan for the City and County of Kingston upon Hull’ in 1946. Their proposals were for a re-evaluation of the function of the city which required clearance of bomb damage and pre-existing slum areas. Their imaginative proposals included reworking Queens Gardens, a retail district, theatre, residential areas on the outskirts of the city, a new railway terminus, sports facilities, relocation of the fish docks and a bridge across the Humber. Little of the scheme was realised as the proposals were unaffordable due to the post war economic decline which affected Hull badly.

Fig. 19 Bomb damage in Hull

The report noted the historic enclosure of the city created with walls and rivers. They commented ‘the walls have disappeared, but their site and that of the moat were converted into a ring of Docks, one of which has since been filled in to form the Queens Gardens. Medieval Hull, selected for its natural role by Edward I , thus stands clear and defined, surrounded by open space, as the core of the great modern city’. 21

2.3.6 Queens Gardens post WWII

20 Robson-Smith N. & Tomlinson A.H (1970) The 1959 ordnance survey is the first available mapping of the site after Environmental qualities of urban open space the gardens were completed in 1935. The survey shows the fountain challenged Building. Vol. 219 pp. 65-73 21 Notes by Andrew Knight Hull City Council and circular rose garden encircled by Queens Dock Avenue at the west for Public Art Strategy end. Trees are also shown along the north boundary of the gardens. A

26 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape plantation of trees and shrubs screen the rose garden and fountain from the rest of Queens Gardens. Small buildings are shown on the south side of the gardens abutting Guildhall Road. Wilberforce Avenue along the centre of the gardens is separated from lawns by an avenue with footpaths on either side. The circular rockeries shown on post 1935 aerial images of the gardens are not depicted. The Wilberforce monument is encircled by a road, College Circle. Tree and shrub planting is shown on the east half of the gardens along the boundaries. Commemorative trees were planted to mark the unity of Rotterdam and Kingston upon Hull Civic Parties in 1950. 22

A Floral Clock was proposed as a feature to celebrate the Coronation Celebrations in 1953. 23

2.4 The Inception of the Second Design Phase for Queens Gardens

Although the council was unable to implement Abercrombie and Lutyens proposals of 1946 an ambition to improve the civic area remained. A decade later plans to build a number of new buildings including Hull College of Technology, a new Police Headquarters, the Custom House, Colleges of art and commerce and extensions to the Guildhall highlighted the requirement for an overview of the area to ensure that the overall appearance of the development was not discordant. 23 This was the impetus for the council to consult Frederick Gibberd, ‘an architect and town planner of national eminence’, as consultant to advise on the matter. 25

2.4.1 Sir Frederick Gibberd

Sir Frederick Gibberd (1908-1984) was an architect and town planner. He studied at Birmingham School of Architecture and moved to London in 1930, starting his own practice in 1932. He was very engaged with the British membership of the Modern Architectural Research (MARS) Group which formed in 1933 and met Alvar Aalto and László Moholy-Nagy. Gibberd was unfit for military service and between 1942 and 1944 he held the position of principal of the Architectural Association School of Architecture. 22 Parks & Burial Committee 12/07/1950 p. 18 23 Parks & Burial Committee 11/03/1953 p. He was renowned as an architect planner and made significant 102 contributions to reconstruction schemes in England after World War II. 24 Alston (1959) p. 94 25 Smith, J (n.d) A Pictorial Diary of Life in From 1946 he was responsible for the development of Harlow New town Kingston upon Hull p. 4 and continued as Planner and Chief Architect until 1980. He was also

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 27 involved with the 1951 Festival of Britain ‘Live Architecture’ where he made the pedestrian market square a popular feature which unified surrounding buildings, an approach to urban design which continues to be employed up to the present day. 26 Between the 1950s and 1970s Gibberd & Partners were responsible for many urban design projects in Doncaster, St. Albans, Hull, Leamington Spa, Bedford, Stratford upon Avon, Redcar and Swindon. 27

Gibberd had a particular interest in the role of landscape in planning and played a important role in integrating green spaces within areas of development. Among many designers Gibberd studied the work of Edwin Lutyens. This is shown by a sketch in his 1943 diary of Hampstead Garden Suburb. 28 Alexander (2009) noted ‘Gibberd, like Abercrombie, sought to combine Modernism with the objectives of the Garden City Movement’. 29 When talking to the Institute of Water Engineers he was asked ‘how much extra his landscape would cost over and above the engineering works; and his reply was that he would not accept the definition of landscape as an ‘extra’. 30

The distinguished landscape architect Sylvia Crowe (1901-1997) worked with Gibberd from 1948. Although she was heavily involved with Harlow New Town, Queens Gardens is not included as one of her commissions. 31

Another contemporary and close friend of Gibberd was Geoffrey Jellicoe (1900-1996), a landscape architect, town planner and architect.

In 1948 Frederick Gibberd published his first plan for Harlow New Town, Essex. The form grew from the complex agricultural field patterns, 26 Hui Lan Manley p.44 but had been rationalised into an art form that might be a landscape 27 See also his work at Heathrow Airport 32 (1950-1969), Hinckley Point Power Station designer’s interpretation of Mousehole. (1957-65), Roman Catholic Cathedral, Liverpool (1960-1967), the London Mosque, Jellicoe’s tribute to Gibberd following his death in 1984 reads; Regent’s Park (1969-1977) 28 Hui Lan Manley p.26 29 Alexander, A (2009) Britains New Towns, ‘Underneath a remarkable expertise, Gibberd was a humanist ... Could Garden Cities to Sustainable Communities architecture be humanised and remain contemporary in inspiration? Could p.31 landscape help to bridge the apparently impassable gap between the 30 Lay, Hubbard & Wheelwright (1962) mechanical and the biological worlds? There could not have been a better Landscape Architecture Magazine Volume 52. p. 90 equipped explorer into these puzzling and as yet unresolved matters than 31 Landscape Institute biography notes one whose expertise, versatility and inventiveness in his own field were, I 32 Jellicoe G & S (rev. 1987) The Landscape think, without equal.’ 33 of Man pp. 346,347 33 Secondary reference from Hui Lan Manley p. 111 Jellicoe. G (1984) ‘Obituary: Sir Frederick Gibberd, CBE, R.A.’ Landscape Design 148.Ap 1984 76-7

28 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 2.4.2 Sir Frederick Gibberd’s commission

In 1953 Hull Corporation’s Parks and Burial Committee were consulted by the Town Planning Committee regarding the commission of Mr Frederick Gibberd. He was requested to produce an ‘outline design and report with regard to details concerning the elevations of the whole of the buildings to be erected surrounding Queens Gardens and recommending

Fig. 20 Model of Sir Frederick Gibberd’s proposal for Queens Gardens from The Builder 1959

to the Council that Mr Gibberd be requested to submit to the Town Planning Committee an estimate of his fees in respect of the preparation of a comprehensive report with regard to the elevational treatment of buildings, landscape treatment, street furniture and the design of the Queens Gardens; and also authorising its Chairman and Deputy Chairman to consult with the Chairman and Deputy Chairman of this committee therewith’.

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 29 However, it appears that the subject of Gibberd’s design for the gardens was not reviewed again until 1957 when it was reported that members of the committee had given further consideration to his proposals. These were approved and arrangements were made to obtain costs for the scheme. 34 In 1959 Gibberd was asked to prepare drawings for Stage 1 and 2 with an estimated cost of £107,000 (c. £2.4m today) and planting plans for horticultural works to the value of £12,000. 35 Stages 1 and 2 of the Queens Gardens were officially opened by the Lord Mayor on 16th May 1961. 36

Fig. 21 Seating in Queens Gardens adjacent to wall murals

Gibberd also designed the College of Technology which opened in 1962, an extension to the College of Commerce which opened in 1968 and the Art and Design College which opened in 1974, showing the commitment 34 Parks & Burial Committee 20/02/1957 of Gibberd & Partners to the city over a long period of time, some 21 p.69 years. Other features of the plan, including a winter garden, were not 35 Parks & Burial Committee 21/01/1959 p. 58 36 Parks & Burial Committee 17/05/1961 p. implemented. 37 The location of the new buildings in a previously 120 neglected, inhospitable, open space transformed the eastward vista which 37 Hull City Council Economic Development was closed by the nine story college building. and Regeneration Department. Masterplan Guidance, Queens Gardens Hull 2013. 38 Historic England Register of Historic An important aspect of Gibberd’s design philosophy was integrating Parks and Gardens in England Harlow Water public works of art in the public realm (figs.19, 21). He was a founder Gardens, Civic Square. member of Harlow Arts Trust in 1953 and encouraged the setting of fine Department. Masterplan Guidance, Queens works of art in public places. 38 In 2006 Glancy noted that Harlow was Gardens Hull 2013. 39 Glancy, J (2006) Brave New World a remarkable open air gallery with a large number of 1950s sculptures Guardian November 6th. by artists such as Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, Elizabeth Frink, Lynn

30 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape Fig. 22 Sir Frederick Gibberd’s proposal Chadwick. 39 from Hull City Archives 2.4.3 Frederick Gibberd’s design for Queens Gardens

Gibberd’s redesign of the Queens Gardens involved the excavation of the ground in order to reflect the central section of the old dock and the alignment of the mediaeval town walls along the south side of the site. 40 The contrast of sunken and elevated areas added strong visual interest to the layout of the gardens. Gibberd used similar changes in levels at Harlow New Town Civic Square. He accommodated a change in level with three stepped terraces and included raised planters and sunken ponds (fig. 21). 41

Gibberd’s plans (figs. 22 and 24) shows that his design respected the existing central axis of the gardens. The central lawn, dual paths and the arrangement of the avenue of trees were reinstated in the same arrangement as before but at a lower level than the 1930s design, as a tribute to the former dock. He united the four original sections of garden by removing Grimston Drive and gave the gardens a broader appearance.

Fig. 22a Harlow Water Garden section. Frederick Gibberd n.d. © Gibberd Garden Trust

40 Not referenced. Hull City Council Economic Development and Regeneration 41 Historic England Register of Parks and Gardens Grade II List Entry Number 1389446

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 31 Fig. 23 East end frieze ‘Gateway to Hull’ The gardens were divided into an abstraction of geometric shapes and Wilberforce Monument within a symmetrical layout. Gibberd’s composition included trapezoidal shapes on either side of the axis with a pair of ponds at the west end. The remainder of the gardens were lawned and divided by radial paths. A pond at the east end of the gardens included a sculptured panel which emitted two jets of water while a third jet sprang from the pool itself. This formed an interface with the Wilberforce Monument which was located across Wilberforce Drive in a forecourt and framed by a series of small rectangular hedges. 42

Fig. 24 Sir Frederick Gibberd’s plan for Queens Gardens

32 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape Fig. 25 One of the ponds in Queens Gardens

The avenue of trees was reduced in number to form three lower level paved areas containing hedged enclosures with flower beds, seats and small ponds. Lawns on the south west part of the gardens ran up to the front of the buildings. H. Roscoe the General Superintendent was responsible for overseeing the layout of the gardens. 43

In common with Harlow New Town, a significant feature of Gibberd’s design for the gardens was the addition of art works. A large concrete relief panel by Robert Adams, entitled ‘Gateway to Hull’

Fig. 26 Drinking fountain

42 Alston (1959) p. 95

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 33 was constructed at the east end. This is one of few examples of the artist’s work in Britain. A series of six carved Portland stone abstract panels, called ‘Sea Shapes’ was installed along the north wall of the gardens. These were produced by Kenneth Carter, then a lecturer at Hull College of Art. Of the six panels, only five now remain. This theme linked to other artworks including a synthetic resin mural by William Mitchell (b.1925) on the facade of the College of Technology, also designed by Gibberd. 44 Mitchell also collaborated with Gibberd, creating wall reliefs for Harlow New Town Water Gardens. 45

The Journal of the Town Planning Institute commented ‘This redevelopment is an adventure in planning and design on a scale and in such detail as is very rarely attempted in this country. It will be interesting to see how the Council’s unreserved faith in planning in this precinct is rewarded’. 46

2.4.4 Tree and Shrub Planting

Fig. 27 Phase II trees from Building 1970

Gibberd was well thought of as a gardener and his 7 acre garden at Marsh Lane, Harlow is depicted in a plan (undated) with deciduous 43 College in a City Garden Architectural Review Vol 132 1962 p. 14 trees, conifers, hedges and sculpture (fig.27). The garden was laid out 44 This replaced six carved Portland stone in parts as a series of interconnected ‘rooms’, divided by planting. abstract panels, called ‘Sea Shapes’ (five of House and Garden commented in 1963 that he ‘transformed a nettled which survive; the whereabouts of the sixth is wilderness into a beautiful garden’. 47 not known), by Kenneth Carter, then a lecturer at Hull College of Art. 45 Hull City Council Economic Development Hull Corporation invited tenders for plants, shrubs etc. - for Queens and Regeneration Department. Masterplan Gardens in May 1960. The Committee approved the recommendation Guidance, Queens Gardens Hull 2013. of the General Superintendent to accept the tender from Messrs. Otto 46 Alston (1959) p. 95 47 secondary reference from Manley (2017) & Sons of Boksop, Holland as it was the most advantageous tender p. 74 received. 48,49

34 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 2.4.5 Extension to Queens Gardens

A meeting of the Planning Sub-Committee 15/07/65 approved the incorporation into Queens Gardens of that part of Queens Dock Avenue between Grimston Street and the Customs House which had been closed. Mr Gibberd was appointed to prepare a scheme to incorporate the closed highway in Queens Gardens as a pedestrian way. 50

2.5 Later Developments during the 20th-and 21th Centuries

In 1984 the condition of Queens Gardens was assessed with a view to carrying out improvement works in preparation for pedestrian use of Queens Dock Avenue, which formed the northern boundary of the gardens. Please see Appendices for detailed Civic Design Proposals.

A further review of the condition of the gardens occurred in 1996 when the Director of Planning and Design ‘submitted a report on Queen’s Gardens in terms of history, physical condition, public perception and relation to relevant council policies and its role in the City Centre and future development. He set out the main aims of proposals set out in the report that included halting the decline, a strategy for long term management, increase users, improve access for disabled people, reduce maintenance costs. It was recommended that the strategic masterplan design be agreed in principle and that an application for Arts Lottery fund be prepared for the Mick Ronson Memorial (2017) and that the formulation of a management plan be considered to control future management issues in a structured way’. 51, 52

48 Parks & Burial Committee 18/05/1960 p. 109 2.5.1 Peace Garden, Queens Gardens 49 Parks & Burial Committee 28/09/1960 p. 17 50 Parks Committee 29/09/1965 p. 21 A Peace Garden was established by Hull City Council for the United 51 Mick Ronson was a distinguished guitarist Nations International Year of Peace in 1986. The garden is located at from Hull who worked with David Bowie, Lou Reed and others. the east end of Queens Gardens and includes a sculpture by Jimmy 52 Leisure Services Committee 12/02/1996 Boyle ‘Mankind under Threat’ (1986). 53 This was relocated to p. 72 Hanover Square in 2016. 54 52 Leisure Services Committee 12/02/1996 p. 72 53 (2013) Queens Gardens Masterplan Guidance 2.5.2 Robinson Crusoe Plaque 54 16/00563/FULL | Relocation of bronze sculpture (Jimmy Boyle Sculpture) from In 1973 a plaque was installed in Queens Gardens commemorating a Queens Gardens to Hanover Square | Site To South Of City Treasurer Building Hanover link between the fictional tale of Robinson Crusoe and Hull. Daniel Square Kingston Upon Hull HU1 1EN Defoe published Robinson Crusoe in 1719. The plaque reads, ‘Robinson

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 35 36 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 55 www Geograph

Crusoe. Most famous character in fiction. Sailed from June 22nd, 11.50am – Galileo Galilei 1633 – imprisoned here September 1st 1651. Sole survivor from shipwreck. for defending heliocentrism He was cast upon a desert island where he spent 28 years, 2 months and 19 days. An example of resolution, July 15th, 2.15pm – VrihatSamratYantra – 1734 – giant fortitude, and self-reliance. “Had I the sense to return sundial measures time to two second precision to Hull, I had been happy.” This panel was paid for by public subscription and was unveiled May 21st 1973 by August 14th, 2pm – Robinson Crusoe 1651 – seeks The Lord Mayor Alderman Lionel Rosen OBE, ILM, PFD.’ passage from the docks of Hull 55 September 22nd, 2.15pm – The Old Dock 1778 – the largest dock in the UK is completed in Hull 2.5.3 Hull Solar Gate October 1st, 11.30am – John Venn 1866 – pens ground- Hull Solar Gate was constructed in 2017. The apertures breaking precursor to Venn Diagrams align with the sun at a specific time and date to illuminate commemorative discs; November 9th, 12.30pm – Fall of the Berlin Wall 1989 – reunification of East and West Germany February 28th, 12.15pm – Philip Larkin 1964 – “what will survive of us is love” November 11th, 11am – Armistice Day 1918 – declaration of peace marks end of World War I March 5th, 1pm – Mesopotamian Astronomers 1223 BC – record the earliest known solar eclipse

March 12th, 10.30am – Mahatma Gandhi 1930 – leads the Salt March, a peaceful protest against British rule

March 15th, 1.20pm – Ibn Al-Haytham 1021 – ‘father of optics’ proves light travels in a straight line

April 2nd, 3.30pm – William Wilberforce 1792 – leads the vote for abolition of slavery

April 23rd, 12.15pm – Sir John Hotham 1642 – denies King Charles I entry into Hull, leading to civil war

May 2nd, 1.45pm – Mick Ronson 1994 – posthumous release of final solo album ‘Heaven and Hull’

May 24th, 12 noon – Nicolaus Copernicus 1543 – proclaims all planets orbit the sun not the earth

June 21st, 2.30pm – Hull Solar Gate 2018 – marks the summer solstice

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 37 2.6 Context

Gibberd’s novel approach to the integration of landscape in the masterplan for Harlow New Town is celebrated. He used existing landform as guidance for the layout rather than imposing a structure upon it. Harlow Water Gardens at the Civic Square was designed by him and is included on Historic England’s Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest. 56 (figs. 21, 27, and 28) The gardens, since relocated, included terraces and canals with walls fountains, geometric shaped beds, yew hedges and square pools with lawns at the lowest level. Sculptures by Elizabeth Frink added another dimension to the gardens. The water gardens were designed in 1952 as part of Gibberd’s plan for the town centre but were built as the town hall complex neared completion in 1960. This is a similar pattern to the design and implementation of Queens Gardens, Hull. Harlow Water Gardens preceded Hull in design although they were not completed until 1960 whilst Queens Gardens opened in 1961.

Gibberd designed a number of reservoirs; Kielder Water, Northumberland, Tryweryn Reservoir, Liverpool, Derwent Reservoir, County Durham, Cow Green Reservoir, County Durham, and Harrow Reservoir. 57 These projects also illustrate his interest in integrating new features in a landscape. At Kielder Water Gibberd showed great sensitivity in accommodating the visual effect of 2,700 acres of water which flooded the North Tyne valley. In preference to using concrete, he formed an earth dam which was more compatible as a barrier in a setting defined by the natural contours of the valley. 58 Gibberd also argued during the development of Didcot Power Station that the number of buildings should be reduced in number, and he suggested using grey, warm cream and biscuit for colour, tone and contrast. 59

London Airport was designed by Gibberd in 1950. A matter of increasing concern to architects and planners during the 1950s was the challenge of taking into consideration the relationship between large scale functional buildings and human scale. Gibberd saw the flat roofs of the airport buildings as an opportunity to provide recreational space for airport visitors. His practice designed a series of gardens and terraces at different levels, a variety of grass lawns with containers of plants, shrubs and trees. An area which was allocated to for aircraft 56 Water Gardens, Civic Square, Harlow. spectators was provided with a floorscape of bricks, tiles and panels as Grade II. List Entry Number 1389446 well as planters, shelters and seats. The gardens were also seen by 57 Hui Lan Manley, C (2017) Twentieth Gibberd as a way of unifying the airport complex. 60 Century Architects: Frederick Gibberd. p. 68 58 Hui Lan Manley p. 67 59 Hui Lan Manley p. 65 60 Hui Lan Manley p.70

38 Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape Fig. 28 Harlow Civic Centre – the Water Gardens are located in centre of plan © Gibberd Garden Trust

Fig. 29 Harlow Water Gardens plan. Frederick Gibberd n.d. © Gibberd Garden Trust

Section 2 - Appraisal of Historic Designed Landscape 39 Section 3 Landscape Analysis

3.1 Map Regression Analysis

3.1.2 1893 1st Edition Ordnance Survey Map shows the former layout of the dock and how it connected to River Hull and Princes Quay.

The building that is now occupied by Hull Maritime Museum can be seen to the south western corner overlooking the vast expanse. The southern side of the dock (now Guildhall Road) lined with railway sidings and dock like sheds and was referred to as South Side Queens Dock.

North Side Queens Dock were lined with timber yards, extensive open space in which to store goods.

3.1.3 1928 Ordnance Survey Map

Showing development of civic buildings in the area the Guildhall, to the south east, City Hall, to the south west and Ferens Art Gallery, to the south. By this time the dock was no longer in use.

40 Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 3.1.4 1945 Aerial View

The original garden was divided by a central axis, Wilberforce Avenue, which was aligned on circular features, supporting at the east end a newly relocated monument to William Wilberforce (1759-1833). Whilst on the west side was a fountain pond and rosary. The gardens were divided in the centre by a road, Grimston Drive, and the layout on either side differed. The west quadrants were laid out with circular rockeries on either side. The East quadrants were each divided by arch shaped paths with linear display beds alongside the central walks side.

3.1.5 1959 Ordnance Survey Map

The 1959 ordnance survey is the first available mapping of the site after the gardens were completed in 1935. The survey shows the fountain and circular rose garden encircled by Queens Dock Avenue at the west end. Trees are also shown along the north boundary of the gardens. A plantation of trees and shrubs screen the rose garden and fountain from the rest of Queens Gardens. Small buildings are shown on the south side of the gardens abutting Guildhall Road. Wilberforce Avenue along the centre of the gardens is separated from lawns by an avenue with footpaths on either side. The circular rockeries shown on post 1935 aerial images of the gardens are not depicted.

Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 41 3.1.6 1976 Ordnance Survey Map

Shows that Gibberd’s design respected the existing central axis of the gardens. The central lawn, dual paths and the arrangement of the avenue of trees were reinstated in the same arrangement as before but at a lower level than the 1930s design, as a tribute to the former dock. He united the four original sections of garden by removing Grimston Drive and gave the gardens a broader appearance.

The gardens were divided into an abstraction of geometric shapes within a symmetrical layout. Gibberd’s composition included trapezoidal shapes on either side of the axis with a pair of ponds at the west end.

3.1.7 Current Day Ordnance Survey Map

Much of Gibberd’s layout is intact today, except for 2 of 3 sunken garden areas now raised and levelled. New access from Rose Bowl to Queens Gardens along the central spine.

Additions to Gibberd’s design include the café, the Mick Ronson stage area, a Solar Gate and improved surface treatment.

42 Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 3.2 Hard Landscape Analysis

3.2.1 1893 1st Edition Ordnance Survey Map

Showing the hard surface area to the north and south of the dock, aligned with warehouses and rail tracks.

Dock Edge

3.2.2 1928 Ordnance Survey Map

Showing no significant changes.

Dock Edge

Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 43 3.2.3 1945 Aerial View

This plan shows the pre-existing alignment of hard surfacing either side of the former dock. The original garden was divided by a central axis, Wilberforce Avenue, which was aligned on circular features, supporting at the east end a newly relocated monument to William Wilberforce (1759-1833), and, on the west side, a fountain pond and rosery. The gardens were divided in the centre by a road, Grimston Drive, and the layout on either side differed.

Former Dock Edge 1935

3.2.4 1959 Ordnance Survey Map

This plan shows that the path network either side of the central axis was lost to create a less intricate layout.

Former Dock Edge 1935 intact 1935 removed 1935-1959 additions

44 Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 3.2.5 1976 Ordnance Survey Map

Former Dock Edge 1935 intact 1935 removed 1935-1959 1935-1959 removed Gibberd additions 3.2.6 Current Day Ordnance Survey Map

This plan shows that the central spine was reinstated to link the Rose Bowl with Queens Gardens. Other changes include the removal of the sunken garden areas.

1935 removed Former Dock Edge 1935 intact 1935 removed 1935-1959 1935-1959 removed Gibberd additions Gibberd removals 1976-2019 additions

Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 45 3.3 Existing Hard Landscape

3.3.1 Existing Surface Treatments

Much of Frederick Gibberd’s original trapezoidal layout remains intact. The paving is distinctive to its time and is in a pattern of different sized units of natural York stone laid in an irregular pattern within narrow strips of darker material possibly slate or granite. The condition of some of the pavers is poor and some inappropriate patching with tarmac is evident.

The significant change has been the removal of two sunken gardens situated along the central spine of the Gardens.

The central square area of Queens Gardens has been replaced with concrete flags, which contrast with the stone in terms of quality and character.

Recent surface enhancements have been made to the square area between the two ornamental ponds where Solar Gate is located. The condition of this area is considered high quality and should set the precedent for the rest of the surface areas within the garden to provide a cohesive surface treatment palette to the overall character of the gardens.

A ramp along the central access linking the Rose Bowl and Queens Gardens has helped connect the two spaces physically and is considered a successful addition.

Generally the paving has suffered from the combined effects of weathering and maintenance vehicular traffic. Many of the York stone pavers are cracked and uneven due to traffic loading, which the pedestrian footpaths were not designed to take. This has resulted in trip hazards to pedestrians due to damaged pavement flags, which is problematic in terms of the use of the space for events.

46 Section 3 - Landscape Analysis Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 47 48 Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 3.3.2 Existing Wall and Step Treatments

The alignment of the walls particularly the southern walls are historically significant as they indicate the approximate line of the original dock walls.

A full structural inspection of Queens Gardens was produced by Mason Clark Associates. This report identifies defects in significant lengths of the north and south retaining walls, caused by the large trees growing behind the walls.

Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 49 3.3.3 Existing Water Feature / Pond Areas

The edging stones around the ornamental ponds have deteriorated and some are missing, A method should be proposed to determine an appropriate fixing method as extensive repair and replacement to the pond edges is required.

The water features are of their time; however they do represent an opportunity to preserve a significant element of the Gibberd scheme. They are in a reasonable state of repair; however work is needed for the fountains to fully function.

50 Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 3.3.4 Existing Street Furniture

Generally there is an assortment of street furniture across Queens Gardens, much of it in a poor state of repair. There are different styles and materials.

Recent introductions extend the Hull City Centre Public Realm Strategy into the Gardens to the enhanced hard surfaced area around Solar Gate and should be considered through out to provide a cohesive character.

There are different types of lighting columns throughout Queens Gardens.

Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 51 3.4 Soft Landscaping Analysis

3.4.1 1893 1st Edition Ordnance Survey Map

3.4.2 1928 Ordnance Survey Map

52 Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 3.4.3 1945 Aerial View

The original garden was divided into four quadrants. The two west quadrants were each divided by arch shaped paths with by a central axis, the rosery. The gardens were divided in the centre by a road, Grimston Drive, and the layout on either side differed. The west quadrants were laid out with circular rockeries on either side. The East quadrants were each divided by arch shaped paths with linear display beds alongside the central walks side.

1935

3.4.4 1959 Ordnance Survey Map

The 1959 ordnance survey is the first available mapping of the site after the gardens were completed in 1935. The survey shows the fountain and circular rose garden encircled by Queens Dock Avenue at the west end. Trees are also shown along the north boundary of the gardens. A plantation of trees and shrubs screen the rose garden and fountain from the rest of Queens Gardens. Wilberforce Avenue along the centre of the gardens is separated from lawns by an avenue with footpaths on either side. The circular rockeries shown on post 1935 aerial images of the gardens are not depicted. 1935 intact 1935 removed 1935-1959 additions

Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 53 3.4.5 1976 Ordnance Survey Map

Much of the Gibberd masterplan included extensive lawn areas. A new tree lined avenue was planted along the central spine. Ornamental sunken gardens were created. Much of the ornamental planting was located to the north, west and southern boundary.

1935 intact 1935 removed 1935-1959 removed Gibberd additions 3.4.6 Current Day Aerial

Much of the original planting was replaced during the changes made by Gibberd. The segments around the Rose Bowl representthe only surviving feature from the original planting.

Other areas of existing planting beds date back to Gibberd’s masterplan and more recently.

54 Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 3.5 Soft Landscaping Analysis

The gardens are generally well maintained except for the areas along the northern and southern boundaries. In these areas there are several issues identified (see below) related to trees having been allowed to grow too close to existing wall structures.

3.5.1 Shrubs

The Rose Bowl itself is a definitive landmark in Hull, with a pan of the feature forming part of the opening credits to the BBC Look North local news.

The planting within the Rose Bowl gardens provides a high quality landscape area, but requires intensive maintenance. Its combination of structure shrubs, herbaceous planting and seasonal bedding provides an ever-changing display of colour.

The area of planting between the Rose Bowl and Queens Gardens was 1935-1959 removed likely introduced to screen the traffic that used to run around the Rose Bowl when it previously functioned as a roundabout. Planting that perhaps once thrived is currently heavily shaded by tree canopy cover.

The Peace Garden appears to be neglected. There are currently a large number of shrubs within the park of limited quality. The shrub beds are often located beneath existing trees and as such they receive little light and therefore have uneven growth and little vigour. The beds are also difficult to maintain and provide minimal amenity value to the site itself.

3.5.2 Marginal Planting

The ornamental ponds provide areas of marginal planting. although reeds are beginning to dominate the two water bodies either side of Solar Gate.

Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 55 3.5.3 Trees

A tree survey was undertaken across the site in January 2019. This was completed by the Hull City Council arboricultural team who measured and graded the trees in accordance with BS5837 criteria.

There are 200 trees within Queens Gardens. 143 individual trees and 5 groups (consisting of 57 trees) have been surveyed.

Just over half of the total number of trees within Queens Gardens is made up of 11 species: apple, beech, birch, cherry, hornbeam, common lime, locust, oak, poplar, rowan and sycamore. However, in total there are 28 different species.

• 9% are trees of high quality with an estimated remaining life expectancy of at least 40 years. • 56% are trees of moderate quality with an estimated remaining life expectancy of at least 20 years. • 34% are trees of low quality with an estimated remaining life expectancy of at least 10 years, or young trees with a stem diameter below 150mm. • 1% are classified in such a condition that they cannot realistically be retained as living trees in the context of the current land used for longer than 10 years.

The avenue of poplar trees which lines the central axis of the Gardens has a life expectancy of around 20 years. A number of specimens have already been lost through deterioration. The surface roots are undermining the footpaths and stand 100mm proud of the lawned areas making maintenance challenging.

Most of the trees along the northern and southern boundaries have been planted too close to the edge of wall structures and are undermining the structural integrity of the walls.

56 Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 1

2

3

7

4 6

5

3.6 Views

Boundary tree planting (dashed green line) particularly along the northern, southern and western boundary creates a barrier and restricts views in and out of the park towards important landmarks.

The original garden layout had significantly fewer trees which were generally structured in alinear fashion along the central avenue. Evidence within Figures 20 and 22 suggests that Gibberd had intended not to plant trees along the southern edge, ensuring that key views to the Guildhall were maintained.

KEY 1. Wilberforce Monument 2. Example of poorly located trees adversely affecting the original vista between the Rose Bowl and Wilberforce Monument 3. The converging tree canopy of the avenue of Poplars is negatively impacting sight lines across the site 4. Rose Bowl 5. Hull Maritime Museum 6. Maritime Prowess statue, Guildhall 7. Guildhall Time Ball

Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 57 KEY FEATURES 1. Rose Bowl 11. Peace Garden 2. Solar Gate 12. 1950s Drinking Fountain 3. Ornamental Ponds (West) 13. Ornamental Pond (East) 4. Modern Drinking Fountain 14. Frieze 5. Bandstand 15. Wilberforce Monument 6. Kenneth Carter Panels 16. Bonding Warehouse 7. Robinson Crusoe Plaque 17. Guildhall 8. Mooring Bollards 18. Guildhall Time Ball 9. Mick Ronson Stage 19. Maritime Prowess statue 10. Kenneth Carter Panels 20. Maritime Museum

6

6

3 4

5 2

3

1

20

58 Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 12 15

14 10 13 10 10 11

8 7 9

16

5

18

17

19

Section 3 - Landscape Analysis 59 Section 4 Statement of Significance

4.0 Significance

This section assesses the importance of Queens Gardens on a scale of local, regional and national significance The analysis also considers the evidential, historical, aesthetic and communal value.

4.1 Introduction

Significance is a specific heritage term defined in the National Planning Policy Framework as follows:

‘The value of a heritage asset to this and future generations because of its heritage interest. That interest maybe archaeological, architectural, artistic or historic. Significance derives not only from a heritage asset’s physical presence, but also from its setting.’

Historic England defines significance as:

‘The sum of the cultural and natural heritage values of a place.’

Historic England’s ‘Conservation Principles’ guidance has been used to assess the site by taking into consideration the value of different aspects of cultural heritage in order to reach as objective a conclusion of significance as possible.

4.2 Evidential Value

In accordance with Historic England conservation principles:

‘Evidential value derives from the potential of the site to yield evidence about past human activity. Physical remains of past human activity are the primary source of evidence about the substance and evolution of places, and of the people and cultures that made them… Their evidential value is proportionate to their potential to contribute to people’s understanding of the past… The ability to understand and interpret the evidence tends to be diminished in proportion to the extent of its removal or replacement.’

Queens Gardens has considerable evidential value demonstrated by the following:

• A large archive of photographs and plans showing the area prior to the 1930s design of the gardens, the 1930s layout, WWII bomb damage, Frederick Gibberd’s design and implementation

60 Section 4 - Statement of Significance • Documentary archives of the site, in particular published critiques in architectural and building journals • The ability to read Gibberd’s design within the current site layout

4.3 Historical Value

In accordance with Historic England conservation principles:

‘Historical value derives from the ways in which past people, events and aspects of life can be connected through a place to the present. It tends to be illustrative or associative… Illustration depends on visibility in a way that evidential value (for example, of buried remains) does not… The illustrative value of places tends to be greater if they incorporate the first, or only surviving, example of an innovation of consequence, whether related to design, technology or social organisation…’

Queens Gardens has considerable historical value demonstrated by the following:

• The naming of the site as Queens Dock, which commemorated a visit to Hull by Queen Victoria in 1854. Following the closure of the Dock, the reference to Queen Victoria was carried over to the new public gardens. • The former function of the site as an 18th century dock which played a significant role in the development of Hull as a port city. The presence of a touchstone to the 18th century dock in the form of surviving segments of the dock wall and the retention of mooring bollards which were discovered during the construction of the Gibberd improvements. • The continuity of key design features first established from the 1930s design that influenced the layout of Gibberd’s remodeling in the 1950s (eg. the Rose Bowl).

Section 4 - Statement of Significance 61 4.4 Aesthetic Value

In accordance with Historic England conservation principles:

‘Aesthetic value derives from the ways in which people draw sensory and intellectual stimulation from a place. Aesthetic values can be the result of the conscious design of a place, including artistic endeavour. Equally, they can be the seemingly fortuitous outcome of the way in which a place has evolved and been used over time. Many places combine these two aspects.’

‘Design value relates primarily to the aesthetic qualities generated by the conscious design of a building, structure or landscape as a whole. It embraces composition (form, proportions, massing, silhouette, views and vistas, circulation and usually materials or planting, decoration or detailing, and craftsmanship)… Strong indicators of importance are quality of design and execution, and innovation, particularly if influential...Some aesthetic values are not substantially the product of formal design, but develop more or less fortuitously over time, as the result of a succession of responses within a particular cultural framework...Aesthetic value resulting from the action of nature on human works, particularly the enhancement of the appearance of a place by the passage of time (“the patina of age”), may overlie the values of a conscious design.’

Queens Gardens has considerable aesthetic and design value demonstrated by the following:

• The gardens are among the first designs in England for post-war public gardens. • Queens Garden is an example of Gibberd’s innovative approach to designing civic areas and integrating sculpture and formal landsacpe in a modern public garden. His designs for Harlow Water Gardens, completed a year before the second phase of Queens Gardens, strongly influenced the layout and incorporation of sculpture. • Gibberd’s landscapes are said by Alexander (2009) to combine Modernism with the objectives of the Garden City Movement. • The gardens provide a vista to frame the view of the Grade II listed William Wilberforce monument which was relocated to its present site in 1935. • The fountain provided a focal point due to its technologically 61 Alexander, A (2009) Britain’s New Towns, Garden Cities to Sustainable Communities advanced sprays and lightings and its accolade of reputedly being p.31 the largest fountain in the country at the time of its construction.

62 Section 4 - Statement of Significance landscape designer Sir Frederick Gibberd (1908-1984). • The layout of the long narrow gardens impacted on the design of Phases I and II of the surrounding buildings, in particular, latterly, the positioning of the Technical College as a tall central block as an end stop to the axis. • Today Queens Gardens is a designed landscape which illustrates the development of post war civic landscapes with surviving path layouts, geometric shaped lawns, ponds, wall friezes and avenue.

4.5 Communal Value

In accordance with Historic England conservation principles:

‘Communal value derives from the meanings of a place for the people who relate to it, or for whom it figures in their collective experience or memory…Commemorative and symbolic values reflect the meanings of a place for those who draw part of their identity from it, or have emotional links to it. …Such values tend to change over time, and are not always affirmative… Social value is associated with places that people perceive as a source of identity, distinctiveness, social interaction and coherence... They may relate to an activity that is associated with the place, rather than with its physical fabric... Compared with other heritage values, social values tend to be less dependent on the survival of historic fabric. Spiritual value [sic. emphasis] … includes the sense of inspiration and wonder that can arise from personal contact with places long revered, or newly revealed. Spiritual value is often associated with places sanctified by longstanding veneration or worship, or wild places with few obvious signs of modern life.’

Queens Gardens is of considerable value to the community demonstrated by the following:

• The site’s role during World War II which included accommodating air raid shelters and the ability to host meetings and activities related to free speech. • Social value derived from the public interest generated from the efforts to sustain the gardens. • Through various design iterations, the site has been in continual use as a public garden for over 80 years. • There are memorial benches across the site which demonstrate the poignancy of memories associated with the gardens.

Section 4 - Statement of Significance 63 4.6 Summary of Statement of Significance

• Queens Gardens is of considerable interest having been re- designed to its present form by Sir Frederick Gibberd, one of England’s most distinguished 20th-century architects and landscape architects. • The gardens are believed to be one of only two surviving examples of Frederick Gibberd’s design for civic gardens. • The gardens are a rare example of a post-war garden designed to include sculpture. • The preceding layout of the gardens was described by The Gardeners’ Chronicle in 1935 and is said to include the largest illuminated fountain in the country (retained by Gibberd). • The gardens have played an enduring role in providing amenity space for the community of Hull since the 1930s. • The site is adjacent to Hull’s Old Town Conservation Area. • The gardens are close to buildings designed by Frederick Gibberd & Partners during a relationship of over 20 years between the practice and the City of Hull. • Since 1935 the gardens have framed the vista to the monument to William Wilberforce (1759 - 1833), Grade II listed.

64 Section 4 - Statement of Significance Section 4 - Statement of Significance 65 Section 5 Chronology

1773 New dock instigated in Hull by the Commissioner of Customs.

1778 Completion of new dock.

1823 ‘Old Dock’ shown by Alfred Smith on plan of Hull.

1854 Queen Victoria and Prince Albert visited Hull and the dock was named Queens Dock.

1930 Queens Dock Committee commenced proceedings to purchase the Queens Dock, basin, buildings and land from the London and North Eastern Railway Company.

1930s Hull Corporation initiated improvements to the public realm in the City of Hull and identified Queens Dock as one of the sites. The dock was filled and laid out as lawns and gardens. Designer unknown. Statue of William Wilberforce relocated to the new ‘Queens Gardens’ 1935.

1942 A total of 86 major air raids caused widespread destruction in the city of Hull.

1946 ‘A Plan for the City and County of Kingston upon Hull’ published by Abercrombie and Lutyens.

1953 Sir Frederick Gibberd was requested to produce an outline design and report with regard to elevational treatment of buildings, landscape treatment, street furniture and the design of the Queens Gardens.

1959 Gibberd asked to prepare drawings for Stages I & II of the scheme.

1961 Stages I & II of Queens Gardens officially opened.

1962 Gibberd also designed Hull College of Technology which was opened that year.

1965 Extension to Queens Gardens incorporating Grimston Street laid out by Gibberd.

1968 Gibberd’s extension to the College of Commerce opened.

1973 Plaque erected to commemorate the fictional tale of Robinson Crusoe sailing from Hull.

66 Section 5 - Chronology 1974 Gibberd’s College of Art & Design opened.

1984 Improvement works to Queens Gardens.

1986 Peace Garden established at east end of Queens Gardens.

1996 Hull City Council Strategy for conservation and management of Queens Gardens.

2017 Mick Ronson Memorial installed in Queens Gardens. Hull Solar Gate by Tonkin Liu erected.

Section 5 - Chronology 67 68 Section 6 - Sources Section 6 Sources

6.1 Printed Sources Notes by Andrew Knight for Hull Public Art Strategy. Hull City Council n.d. Abercrombie, P and Lutyens, E (1946) A Plan for the City Hull City Council Economic Development and and County of Kingston upon Hull Regeneration Department. Masterplan Guidance, Alexander, A (2009) Britain’s New Towns, Garden Cities Queens Gardens Hull 2013. to Sustainable Communities Alston H.F. (1959) Queen’s Gardens Kingston upon Hull Journal of Town Planning Institute March 6.3 Archive Sources Glancy, J (2006) Brave New World Guardian November 6th Hull History Centre. Hui Lan Manley, C (2017) Twentieth Century Architects: Minutes of Queens Dock Committee Frederick Gibberd. Hull Corporation Parks and Burial Committee Minutes Jellicoe G & S (rev. 1987) The Landscape of Man Pictorial Record of Construction of Queens Gardens Hull Oldfield J.R. (2007) Chords of Freedom, History Centre C DMX/39 Commemoration, Ritual & British Transatlantic Slavery Thompson, M. (1990) Hull Docklands - An illustrated History of the Port of Hull. 6.4 Hull History Centre Smith, J (1994) A Pictorial Diary of Life in Kingston upon Hull Minutes of Queens Dock Committee Hull Corporation Parks and Burial Committee Minutes Pictorial Record of Construction of Queens Gardens Hull 6.2 Periodicals History Centre C DMX/39 anon. The Gardeners’ Chronicle September 28 1935 anon. Town Planning Review Vol. 16. No. 4 (Dec. 1935) 6.5 Hull Museum Collections anon. Architectural Design (1952) Vol. 22 anon. The Builder (1955) Vol. 189 Notes on Moving the Wilberforce Monument anon. The Architect and Building News (1955) Vol. 207 anon. The Architect’s Journal (1955) vol. 121 The 1950s re-modelling of Queens Gardens is featured anon. The Builder (1959) Vol.196 in a short film ‘New Heart for a City – A record of anon. Town Planning Institute Journal vol. 45 March rebuilding in the centre of Hull 1950-1963’, edited by 1959 Walter Garton Film Productions. anon. Building. (1976) July 9th Campbell, J (2019) 7 Forgotten plans for Queen’s Gardens that never saw light of day 12.04.2019 Gibberd, F (1962) College in a City Garden Architectural Review Vol 132 Jellicoe. G (1984) ‘Obituary: Sir Frederick Gibberd, CBE, R.A.’ Landscape Design 148.Ap 1984 76-7 Lay, Hubbard & Wheelwright (1962) Landscape Architecture Magazine Volume 52. Robson-Smith N. & Tomlinson A.H (1970) Environmental qualities of urban open space challenged Vol. 219 Unpublished sources

Section 6 - Sources 69 Section 7 Appendices

7.1 Park Committee Minutes relating to use and features of Queens Gardens

7.1.1 Infrastructure

The City Engineer was authorised to carry out works in 1936. As a section of the drainage works had to be deferred, pending settlement of the site, and due to the waterlogged condition of the western portion of the gardens, it was necessary to proceed with drainage works immediately. 62

7.1.2 Administration

By October 1935 the sub-committees responsible for the various parts of the gardens, streets, planting, etc. were changed and it was agreed to disband the Queens Dock Committee giving way to the Parks and Burial Committee. 63

7.1.3 Planting

7.1.3.1 Tree and shrub planting

Historic images of the gardens show that shrubs were not planted as part of the 1935 layout of Queens Gardens. Only a few trees were planted alongside Wilberforce Avenue.

7.1.3.2 Rockery Planting

Historic photographs of the gardens after they were completed in 1935 show a pair of large circular rockeries on lawns at the west end. The park committee minutes do not clarify when they were dismantled. 64

By the beginning of the twentieth century the greatest influence on rock garden design came from Reginald Farrer who took the leading role in the promotion of the ‘alpine garden’. Farrer conveyed the excitement of growing wild alpine plants in English gardens. For him the rockwork was a vehicle for display and he favoured a naturalistic approach.

During the twentieth century rock gardens became popular amongst 62 Parks & Burial Committee 22/01/1936 p.28 people from all walks of life. One of the greatest benefits being a large 63 Parks & Burial Committee 30/10/1935 p.135 64 Hull History Centre Queens Dock number of characteristically small plants could be grown in a restricted Committee Minutes 1934-1935 space. Rockeries were included in public parks during the 1920s, by

70 Section 7 - Appendices designers such as Thomas Mawson at Stanley Park, Blackpool. 65

7.1.4 Music in Queens Gardens

The Committee resolved to make necessary arrangements for band performances at Queens Gardens and arrangements were made for the provision of a band for the formal opening of Queens Gardens. 66 Sunday band concerts were regular events by 1939. 67 Numerous bands played in the gardens including the Regimental Band of the Coldstream Guards, and the Carnie Ladies’ Pipe Band. 68,69

7.1.5 Events

Queens Gardens have been used from the outset for numerous civic activities. Sunday Band concerts were held in Queens Gardens from 1939. 70 Events in Queens Gardens included showing the Victory ‘V’ Calf which was exhibited on Monday 9th August 1943 in aid of the Red Cross Fund. 71 Fundraising activities included the exhibition of a Barracuda Seaplane in 1945 to raise funds for King George’s Fund for Sailors. 72 In 1947 it was agreed that gramophone concerts would be held twice weekly in Queens Gardens. Various church services were held in the gardens including an open air Commemoration for the War Dead of the city. 73 Christmas was also celebrated in the park with a tree and crib. 74 University Rag Week celebrations were held annually in the gardens from 1955.

7.1.6 Public Forum

A site for free public debate was chosen in Queens Gardens in 1946 65 Historic England Register of Park and between Wilberforce Avenue and Grimston Drive. The area was Gardens Grade II* List Entry Number 1000952 allocated with three meeting places 45 yards apart. All meetings were 66 Parks & Burial Committee 24/07/1935 required to have the consent of the committee and were supervised by p.104 67 Parks & Burial Committee 21/03/1939 p.40 an attendant. 75 68 Parks & Burial Committee 16/07/1952 p. 21 69 Parks & Burial Committee 24/10/1956 p. 35 70 Parks & Burial Committee 21/03/1939p.40 7.1.7 Events 71 Parks & Burial Committee 14/07/1943 p.66 72 Parks & Burial Committee 11/04/1945 p. 39 73 Parks & Burial Committee 09/06/1948 p. In 1964 permission was granted for Lambert Street Methodist Youth 70 Club to use the Gardens for the formation of a ‘Mile of Pennies’ and to 74 Parks & Burial Committee 23/09/1953 p. 12 provide music to raise money for the Ivory Coast Hospital Appeal. 76 75 Parks & Burial Committee 08/05/1946 p.44 76 Parks Committee 21/10/1964 p. 31

Section 7 - Appendices 71 7.1.8 Structures in Queens Gardens

7.1.8.1 Dwarf Walls

In 1947 a dwarf wall was erected around the ornamental fountain. £250 was set aside to cover the works. 77 In 1948 the General Superintendent requested that a similar wall should be constructed around the base of the Wilberforce monument. 78

7.1.8.2 Air Raid Shelter / Police Shelter

In 1940 it was decided that Queens Gardens, with two other sites in Hull, would be used to locate an air raid shelter. 79

In 1947 the General Superintendent of Queens Gardens submitted a letter from the Chief Constable requesting permission to retain Air Raid Shelter No. 149A for police use for a period of at least 18 months. The Committee resolved that the request be acceded to subject (a) to the Watch and Licensing Committee being responsible for any costs to be incurred in connection with the demolition and restoration of the site at a future date, and (b) to their also being responsible for the costs of any work deemed necessary for screening the buildings from the Gardens. 80

7.1.8.3 Memorial Plaques

In 1950 a quotation was provided for the supply of a bronze plaque commemorating the planting of cherry trees by the Rotterdam and Kingston upon Hull Civic Parties on the 12th April 1950. 81

In conjunction with arrangements for commemorative plaques on various historic sites across the city, permission was granted to erect a piece of granite 3ft by 2ft wide on the small area of garden between Dock Offices and Alfred Gelder Street, adjacent to the fountain on Queens Gardens to indicate the site of the Port’s first enclosed dock. 82

7.1.8.4 Shelters

Following a proposal to convert some of the air-raid shelters into open- 77 Parks & Burial Committee 08/10/1947 p.89 fronted shelters for visitors to the gardens, it was decided that two 78 Parks & Burial Committee 14/07/1948 p.82 would be converted into arbours. 83 79 Parks & Burial Committee 13/11/1940 p. 28 80 Parks & Burial Committee 08/10/1947 p.89 In 1961 it was agreed that a shelter was required for Queens Gardens 81 Parks & Burial Committee 12/07/1950 p.18 82 Parks & Burial Committee 10/06/1953 p.5 and Frederick Gibberd was commissioned to produce a plan. 84 83 Parks & Burial Committee 04/12/1946 p. 11

72 Section 7 - Appendices A sketch for a shelter in the North East corner of the Queens Gardens adjacent to the drinking fountain was prepared by Mr F Gibberd and the Town Planning Committee resolved that the proposal be approved, that estimate for the work be obtained and that the Recess (Special) Sub-Committee be authorise to take any action necessary without awaiting confirmation. 85

Fig. 30 Old dock capstans unearthed during landscape work were re- erected along a length of original dock wall. From Building 1970

7.1.8.5 Ponds

Inevitably the ponds required a high degree of maintenance and there are examples of expenditure on this in committee minutes. In 1963 The West End Pond needed repairs to the valve body which cracked in the frost. The cost was estimated at £60 for which there was no provision in the estimates - it was requested the work carried out to enable the cleaning of the pool before Easter. The Committee resolved to approve the actions and refer to the Finance Committee as a supplemental estimate. 86

7.1.8.6 18th-century mooring bollards

The 18th-century stone mooring bollards are referred to in a document relating to Queens Gardens by the city council. They are described as original stone bollards from Queens Dock resited on a surviving section of the dock walls in front of the cafe, located on the south side of the 84 Parks & Burial Committee 22/11/1961 p. 63 85 Parks Committee 18/09/1963 p. 27 gardens. 87 86 Parks & Burial Committee 17/04/1963 p. 89

Section 7 - Appendices 73 7.1.9 Proposed Winter Garden

In 1960 members of the Design and Control of Development Committee were instructed to meet with the Planning Sub-Committee of the Town Planning Committee regarding Stage 3 and 4 of the layout of Queens Gardens which included a Winter Garden. 88,89

The Winter Garden was eventually approved in 1965 when it was reported that the design for the Winter Gardens and layout of surrounding ornamental gardens for Stages 3 and 4 at an estimated cost of £150,000 was approved by the Planning Committee. 90 However, despite approval the scheme was not progressed.

7.1.10 Later developments during the 20th-century

In 1984 the condition of Queens Gardens was assessed with a view to carrying out improvement works in preparation for pedestrian use of Queens Dock Avenue, which formed the northern boundary of the gardens. The detailed ‘Civic Design Proposals’ included;

I. the existing fountain be refurbished as part of a separate scheme II. the flower beds surrounding the fountain retained on existing pattern III. a screened car park for 8 cars with access from Guildhall Rd IV. a new pedestrian promenade on the eastern periphery of the flower beds formed by paving over the existing carriageway V. new tree and shrub planting partly in raised brick planting boxes on the north and eastern sides of the space on the line of the existing footway VI. bench seating incorporated into the planting boxes with purpose made built-in litter bins VII. the existing pathways radial to and peripheral to the fountain regraded and resurfaced with new kerb edgings to match the surrounding treatment.

In 1984 the Leisure Services Committee recorded that they would like a vista from Queens Gardens to the fountain, that the York stone on site should be retained and re-used to create paths diverging from the 87 Hull City Council Economic Development fountain, that the paving layout should be simple and not detract from and Regeneration Department. Masterplan Guidance, Queens Gardens Hull 2013 the fountain, lighting columns were to be relocated to the landscaped 88 Parks & Burial Committee 21/12/1960 p. 47 areas and car parking was no longer allowed around the feature. 91 89 Parks & Burial Committee22/11/1961 p. 63 It was noted that the site for the winter garden would not be available until the end of 1963 as it was occupied by police garages. 90 Parks Committee 17/11/1965 p.39

74 Section 7 - Appendices 7.1.11 Events late 20th-century

The policy for use of Queens Gardens was updated and amended in 1986. Applications would only be considered if they were primarily concerned with entertainment and/ or leisure activities and that public meetings and other non-leisure /entertainment related activities were to be directed to other approved areas with the exception of those involving the use of the Peace Garden. 92

7.1.12 Renovation of Fountain

In 1983 the fountain required renovation and the City Engineer was asked to consider options to bring the fountain back into working order. The City Engineer was authorised to; investigate and implement the removal of external fittings of the fountain, to investigate renovation of external fittings, investigate the condition of the existing control room equipment and prepare a scheme for renovation. The estimated cost was £36,000 and the matter was to be referred to the Inner City Programme Special Committee and the Finance Committee. 93 A grant of £3,000 was provided by the Inner City Programme Special Committee 1983-1984 and the work commenced in April 1984. 94,95

91 Leisure Services Committee 16/07/1984 p. 11 92 Leisure Services Committee 17/11/1986 p. 62 93 Leisure Services Committee 18/07/1983 p. 18 94 Leisure Services Committee12/12/1983 p. 55 95 Leisure Services Committee 16/04/1984

Section 7 - Appendices 75 Listing Descriptions

Wilberforce Monument Heritage Category: Listed Building Grade: II List Entry Number: 1283041 Date first listed: 13-Oct-1952 Date of most recent amendment: 21-Jan-1994 Statutory Address: WILBERFORCE MONUMENT, WILBERFORCE DRIVE KINGSTON UPON HULL

680-1/19/402 WILBERFORCE DRIVE 21-DEC-07 (East side) WILBERFORCE MONUMENT (Formerly listed as: WILBERFORCE AVENUE WILBERFORCE MONUMENT)

Grade II Commemorative monument, standing on the east side of Wilberforce Drive. 1834-8, by W. H. Clark of Leeds; the builders were Messrs Myers and Wilson. Moved here in 1935 from Queen Victoria Square. Ashlar. Massive fluted Doric column with square capital, carrying a corniced drum topped by a standing figure. Cubical pedestal with deep moulded plinth and plain cornice carrying on each side a segmental pediment flanked by acroteria with urns at the corners. The monument stands approximately 110 feet high.

On the sides of the pedestal are inscriptions surrounded by wreaths, reading ‘Wilberforce’; ‘Negro Slavery Abolished, 1 Aug. MCCCXXXIV’; ‘First Stone Laid, 1 August 1834’ and ‘Erected by Voluntary Subscription’.

HISTORY: William Wilberforce (1759-1833) was born into a prominent Hull family. Elected MP for Hull in 1780, and for Yorkshire in 1784, his political stance was independent from the first. In 1785 he experienced a conversion to evangelical Christianity, and resolved to devote his life to God. He was counselled by the evangelical minister, John Newton, and by his friend, Prime Minister William Pitt, that he could best serve God by remaining in politics. In 1787 he was persuaded by prominent abolitionists to represent their cause in Parliament. Whilst Thomas Clarkson and others gathered evidence against the slave trade and sought to mobilize public opinion, Wilberforce worked ceaselessly in Parliament, introducing bills calling for an end to the slave trade and speaking in their support; in 1788 he secured a select committee to examine evidence on the slave trade. The campaign met with fierce opposition and frequent set-backs before the abolition bill at last received royal assent on 25 March 1807. Slave ownership continued to exist in Britain’s colonies, and Wilberforce continued to strive for the

76 Section 7 - Appendices abolition of slavery itself, joining with others to form in 1807 the African Institution and in 1823 the Anti-Slavery Society. He remained in the House of Commons until 1825, by which time Thomas Fowell Buxton had taken on the leadership of the parliamentary campaign. On 26 July 1833 Wilberforce heard that the bill for the emancipation of all slaves in British colonies had passed its final reading, and on 29 July he died. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, where a monument by Samuel Joseph was erected in 1840.

The town of Kingston upon Hull was quick to honour Wilberforce. Despite competition from a rival county scheme to commemorate the abolitionist with a school for the blind, voluntary subscriptions provided the funds for the spectacular monument. The foundation stone was laid on 1 August 1834, the day the Abolition Act came into force, and the statue was fixed in place on 12 November 1835.

SOURCES: N. Pevsner, The Buildings of England: Yorkshire, York, and the East Riding (1972); Dictionary of National Biography; L. Deverell and G. Watkins, Wilberforce and Hull (2000) J. Oldfield, ‘Chords of Freedom’ (2007)

REASONS FOR DESIGNATION The Wilberforce Monument is designated at Grade II for the following principal reasons: * A handsome and unusual monument, being an early use of the commemorative column in England * The monument is of particular historical interest, having been erected to commemorate William Wilberforce, England’s most celebrated abolitionist, in the town of his birth. This amendment is written in 2007, the bicentenary year of the 1807 Abolition Act.

Legacy The contents of this record have been generated from a legacy data system. Legacy System number: 387853 Legacy System: LBS

Sources Books and journals Deverell, L, Watkins, G, Wilberforce and Hull, (2000) Oldfield, J, Chords of Freedom, (2007) Pevsner, N, The Buildings of England: Yorkshire - York and the East Riding, (1972)

Section 7 - Appendices 77 Southern Green Ltd. T: 0191 440 0034 221 Durham Road E: [email protected] Low Fell www.southerngreen.co.uk Gateshead NE9 5AB