Scoping Study CONSULTATION DRAFT
Old City: Medieval Core Public Realm
City Design October 2012 Group DRAFT City Design Group Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 2 Consultation Draft City Design Group Old City: Medieval Core Public Realm Scoping Study
Contents
Executive Summary 1. Introduction and background 2. History and development of the area 3. Environment and economy 4. Historic environment regeneration 5. Community engagement 6. Framework for improvements 7. Recommendations and next steps
Appendices 1. Summary of survey information June 2012 2. Parking restrictions Autumn 2012
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 3 Executive summary Improvements framework Priority areas of improvements
Focussed improvements at nodes
Corridor improvements
Entrance improvements
Improved pedestrian and cycle links
Local improvements to spaces
Area improved in BRT works
The medieval core of the Old City is a unique and Framework for improvements much loved area and provides a key pedestrian This report identifies the problems across the Old City and cycling route across the city. The generally and proposes a framework for improving the public poor quality of the public realm does not, however, realm. The framework will be guided by the following reflect the high quality of its historic buildings. The principles: environment is dominated by parked cars and clutter, Reduce street clutter with little space to dwell and enjoy the ambience. Reduce the impact of traffic and parking Improve the quality of the public realm Historic townscape improvement projects across Develop a palette of materials to reinforce the the country have clearly demonstrated how this identity of this distinct area can be changed by investing in the public realm, Improve pedestrian and cycle linkages into and increasing local pride, the vitality and economy of around Old City these areas and raising the profile of the wider city. Reduce the impact of waste and improve cleansing There is overwhelming support from the public, local operations businesses and amenity groups and the council’s Raise the profile of the medieval core policy documents for a similar regeneration of Old Promote markets and events City. Encourage a diversity of uses and restore historic links as buildings are redeveloped
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 4 Consultation Draft City Design Group Executive summary
Recommendations Next steps It is essential to be pragmatic in recommending priorities in this difficult economic climate and to The next steps in taking forward this framework for accept that it will not be possible at this stage to improvements will be to : undertake the major regeneration works to the agree the principle of this framework with internal highest quality that the area deserves. Works will and external stakeholders inevitably need to be undertaken in phases and agree priorities, funding and staff resources have been prioritised in relation to costs, the level of available for the project impact and to respond to community concerns and commission initial work packages: aspirations. topographical survey archeaological survey Works and timescales will clearly be dependent on the develop concept designs for priority areas levels of funding and staff resources across different start process of decluttering departments that are made available to the project. develop materials palette It is recommended that the priorities should be: Timescales
� Start a decluttering programme, especially Subject to funding and staff resources reducing the impact of trade and domestic decluttering works could be started immediately and waste, traffic and highways signage and regular Saturday road closures will start spring 2013. A-boards � Build on the success of St Nicholas market Other works, including changes to roads, parking and reinforce the primary pedestrian route and access arrangements will require a much more by redesigning the space at the Broad Street/ extensive period of stakeholder engagement and Corn Street junction formal processes such as Traffic Regulation Orders. � Use road closures to develop a regular These works would take a minimum of 6-12 months. monthly programme of markets/events to animate the Old City and raise the profile of the area � Review options to remove parking from Corn Street and Clare Street to enable outdoor uses for frontage businesses
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 5 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 6 Consultation Draft City Design Group Introduction and background 1 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 8 Consultation Draft City Design Group 1 1 Old City medieval core and public realm 1. Introduction and background project area
2 Old City Neighbourhood showing project area
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The Medieval core of the Old City is the historic heart This report : of Bristol (see fig 1). It lies at the northern end of the Old City Neighbourhood and between the retail brings together the existing information about the core of Broadmead/ Cabot Circus and the leisure and area, identifying where further work is needed shopping areas of Harbourside and Bristol’s West End. explores best practice from recent successful (see fig 2) It is a truly mixed-use area retaining the historic core regeneration projects historic functions of markets, courts, churches, banks, outlines community perceptions and aspirations restaurants, shops, cafes and bars and contains some for the Old City of the city’s finest buildings. promotes a strategy for improving the public The poor quality of the public realm is in stark realm of the Old City contrast to the high quality of the many historic suggests a framework for consultation on the building frontages however. The footways are narrow strategy and detailed design and patched, and parked cars limit the ability of the identifies priorities and outline costs for packages many restaurants and bars to extend seating onto the of work pavements. This restricts the potential for the area to suggests a timescale and phasing for the works capitalise on the quality of the historic buildings and the ambience they create. Corn Street and Clare Street form the spine of the medieval core and are a very important pedestrian and cycle route across the city. It has long been the aspiration of the City Council to improve pedestrian and cycling connections between Broadmead/ Cabot Circus, the Centre, West End and Harbourside. The Draft Public Realm and Movement Framework Old City core public realm highlights the potential for public realm improvements study area across the Old City, in particular on the strategic links provided by Corn Street and Nelson Street. There is now a consensus among key stakeholders that the quality of the public realm in the medieval Old City Neighbourhood core of the Old City is in need of significant improvement.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 9 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 10 Consultation Draft City Design Group History and development of the area 2 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 12 Consultation Draft City Design Group 2. History and development of the area 1 2 1 Extract from Hofnagle’s map 1581 showing medieval core 2 St. John’s Gate, the remaining mediaeval entrance to city
3 The Corn Exchange, now St Nicholas Market
3 4 5 4 Bank of England building with St Mary-le-Port behind
5 See No Evil 2011 Nelson Street
The medieval city of Bristol was focussed on the High There has also been significant modern Cross at the crossroads of Corn Street and High Street redevelopment on the perimeter of the area along ( see 1). Its medieval roots are still visible in the street Colston Avenue and Baldwin Street, now wide and pattern and hidden lanes, which reflect the lines of the heavily trafficked streets, and on Nelson Street, an old city walls and indeed the earlier Saxon fortified underused canyon of mainly 1960’s architecture that settlement bounded by St Nicholas Street, Leonard recently hosted the popular See No Evil street art Lane, Bell Lane and Tower Lane. This is most obvious event (see 5). at the remaining historic entrance of St John’s Gate (see 2). As the city expanded the city walls were demolished and new buildings replaced old. With the notable exception of the churches, most of the older buildings in the Old City are Georgian or Victorian and the area around the spine of Clare Street and Corn Street retains its cohesion and historic character. Many of these were banks and grand civic buildings such as the Guildhall and the former Corn Exchange, now St Nicholas Market (see 3). The medieval heart of the city was irrevocably damaged by bombing during the Second World War, which destroyed much of the area that is now Castle Park. The historic character of the north eastern part of the study area, including the historic crossroads, has been lost in the post war reconstruction around the Pithay and across to the brutalist Bank of England complex that hides ruined church of St Mary le Port (see 4).
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 13 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 14 Consultation Draft City Design Group Environment and economy 3 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 16 Consultation Draft City Design Group 3. Environment and Economy 1 2 1 St. Stephens Church, Grade 1 listed 2 Baldwin Street, wide and traffic dominated
3 Loss of traditional street surfaces erodes character
3 4 4 Street clutter related to traffic controls
3.1 Planning policy It notes the heavy traffic in Baldwin Street (6.1.3) but also it’s many high quality buildings, particularly those The medieval core lies within the Old City and on the edge of the medieval core, and its potential for Queen Square conservation area and contains a high improvement into a more pedestrian friendly space. proportion of listed buildings, notably the grade 1 The Draft Bristol Central Area Action Plan listed Exchange buildings (St Nicolas Market) and St (2012) recognises the Old City as a “key point for Stephen’s church (see 1). The medieval core is at the independent and niche retail” and states that “the northern end of the Old City neighbourhood, which is focus will be on strengthening the market offer” bounded to the east and west by the floating harbour and to “better balance the daytime and evening (see 2 p6). economy” (3.38). It highlights the potential for the redevelopment of the St Mary-le-Port site to improve The Old City and Queen Square Conservation Area the link between Broadmead and St Nicholas Market Character Appraisal (2009) recognises the high quality (7.4.11) of the built environmetn but identifies significant problems with the quality of the public realm in the The approach to the Old City will be to: area, notably:
Traffic conflicts with pedestrian movement, “Preserve, and enhance and , where particularly on wide main routes. appropriate, repair Old City’s historic Loss of traditional street surfaces and a mix character, working to reduce the impact of of modern surfaces is gradually eroding the through traffic on the area and supporting the character of the area. growth of independent trade at St Nicholas Poor spaces associated with modern market and St Mary-le Port” (7.4.12) development at and around St Mary le Port Church and poor relationship with the historic High Street and Wine Street. Corn Street is partly pedestrianised, but has poor pedestrian surfaces that lack good character and appearance. In several areas there is an excess of street clutter such as traffic signage that detracts from the character and appearance of the Conservation Area (p4).
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 17 1 1. Draft Public Realm and Movement Framework 3. Environment and economy Primary Pedestrian Route 1 2. Cast iron kerb, stone gutter, sett trim 3. Iconic view up Clare Street to All Saints Church 2 3 4 4. Tailors Court; historic paving
The Draft Public Realm and Movement Framework 3.2 Character and Streetscape 2012 (PRMF) identifies Old City as: - The medieval core is densely developed with generally high quality, three to four storey buildings of various “offering significant potential for public realm eras and diverse architectural styles. Many are richly improvements, through a sustained and decorated with unique detailing. comprehensive design-led initiative”. The medieval street pattern and lanes make it very This will be achieved through: permeable for pedestrians. Glimpsed views to the Lighting many churches and intimate views into narrow lanes Decluttering are a characteristic of the Old City, but there is also Animation the iconic long view up Corn Street to the cupola Wayfinding and Information of All Saints church (see 3). Located on the historic Greening central cross roads, All Saints is also a landmark on Art the approaches from Wine Street and High Street and The PRMF identifies that Primary Pedestrian Route 1 visible from many locations across the city. goes through the Old City (see 1) and promotes: There are pockets of historic paving, generally 1F Corn Street pennant stone, across the Old City, notably in the Further develop vehicle access management semi-private areas of Tailors Court and through Albion measures to enable greater priority for pedestrians Chambers (see 4). and facilitation of street events High quality pennant stone has also been used in the Introduce a shared space approach to public realm pedestrianised areas and remains around St Nicholas design market – although it suffers somewhat from the Create opportunities for businesses to spill out into regular vehicular access of the market. Historic cast the street iron kerbs, stone gutters and sett details also remain 1G High Street/Wine Street intact in many streets (see 2). Take advantage of shared space approach to reinstate historic building lines Introduce a shared space approach to public realm design. It also advocates developing a waste and decluttering strategy and greater interpretation of the hidden lanes and historic buildings.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 18 Consultation Draft City Design Group 3. Environment and economy 1 2 3 1 Corn Street - poor quality footways surfaces 2 Corn Street - multiple road markings
3 Dense shade across Small Street 5 4 Entrance to St Stephens Street showing urban clutter 4 5 St Stephens churchyard, a green oasis in Old City
The overwhelming impression of the public realm is 3.3 Trees and green spaces extremely poor, however, with a medley of narrow, In common with many medieval walled cities the area patched and concrete footways, multiple signs and is densely developed with little public space other roadmarkings, cctv and refuse bins cluttering streets. than roads. There are very few street trees and, with (see 1 & 2). Most road space is given over to parking, the exception of the hanging baskets on St Nicolas allowing little opportunity for businesses to expand Street, there is little of the planting and flowers that outside. Any leftover spaces, such as at both ends of are generally associated with historic cores. St Stephens Street have been filled with motorcycles and clutter rather than contributing positively to the The few street trees have great visual significance vitality of the area (see 4). however, providing focal points and softening the tight urban environment. Raised tree roots are causing The tight street network creates deep contrasts issues for paving in some areas though and require between dense shade and pockets of sunlight. The attention to stop trip hazards. west side in particular of Corn Street gets sunlight during the day, the east towards evening, but some The churchyard of St Stephens is a notable exception, streets remain in shade much of the day (see 3). providing a welcome green oasis in the area (see 4). St John’s churchyard offers borrowed vegetation but There are some pockets that attract graffiti and is not generally open to the public, and the trees tagging - notably Leonard Lane and under St Johns complement the incidental space outside The Bank gate - but the area is relatively free from such visual pub. intrusions. The See No Evil street art project in Nelson Street has clearly had a positive role in encouraging The line of mature plane trees flanking High Street interest and greater use of a fairly hostile 1960’s and Wine Street provide a visual link to Broadmead street, but it is not considered appropriate that this and create some screening to the otherwise approach be adopted inside the historic core where unsympathetic buildings on Castle Park. the high quality historic buildings should dominate. Opportunities should be identified for further street Tagging and graffiti should be removed from this area trees and planting to punctuate and green the area. promptly whenever it occurs. Businesses should also be encouraged to increase planting across the Old City.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 19 3. Environment and economy 1 1 Extract from BRT proposals for City Centre 2 Impression of improvements to the western entrances to Old City with BRT
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3.4 Archaeology Clare Street and St Stephens Avenue. This would increase the number of people filtering up through the Although most of the medieval city has now medieval city to access the city centre. The proposed disappeared there is still much archaeological public realm improvements associated with BRT would evidence, including an extensive network of medieval close the exit from St Stephens Street to general vaults of national significance, that require protection traffic and see improvements to the spaces along the and consideration. Cellars extend out under the roads western edge of the Old City, giving much improved in many places, and the remains of the historic St entrances into the area from the west (see 1 and 2). Leonards gate lie below the junction of St Leonards Lane and Corn Street. 3.6 Walking and Cycling These underground assets could have a significant Corn Street is the main pedestrian route linking impact on both the materials and construction Harbourside and the West End to Broadmead and techniques for any improvement works and will need Cabot Circus. It is a very busy route with over 2000 some investigation prior to engineering works. The people an hour walking through at lunch time on widespread use of concrete across the footways has market days. High Street is also on the principal been the recent response to concerns about heavy walking route from Temple Meads station to the vehicles mounting the fotways, and removing this City Centre, albeit the junction with Baldwin Street is to upgrade the surface treatment without damaging particularly difficult for both pedestrians and cyclists. underground structures will in itself be challenging. It The footways are generally narrow and poor quality is notable that the stone paving used in the previous however, with pedestrians frequently walking in the pedestrianised areas was laid on the original road base road to avoid congested footways. There are few seats to avoid these issues. or opportunities to sit and rest within the area, or to 3.5 Public Transport sit and enjoy food on market days. The medieval core is very well served by public Old City is an important hub for cyclists and there transport, being directly adjacent to the principal bus has been significant recent investment to create a stops on the City Centre promenade where both local valuable network of contraflow cycle lanes across and park and ride visitors to the city alight. Baldwin the area. These have brought with them a raft of Street is also well served by buses, including tourist new signage and road markings however, which buses. should be reviewed as part of a decluttering exercise. Baldwin Street is also an important cycle route, but The development of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), if agreed, has an accident blackspot at its junction with Queen could provide an additional boost to the area as it is Charlotte Street that needs to be addressed. proposed that the stops should be located between
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 20 Consultation Draft City Design Group 3. Environment and economy 1 2 1 Italian Cars Event Corn Street 2011 2 Big Green Market 2012
3 Improvements and decluttering on East Street but road remains dominant 3 4 5 4 Hydraulic bollards bring clutter on St Stephens Street
5 Hydraulic bollards allow events but suffer mechanical defects
3.7 Traffic There have been many calls for the pedestrianisation of Corn Street and Clare Street. Given the low vehicle Traffic levels and speeds across the area are low, with numbers and speeds, and the necessity for access only 137 vehicles per hour on Corn Street at peak and loading to businesses and the market, it is not times on market day, but generally considerably lower. considered essential to remove through traffic The roads are mainly used for local access, servicing completely from the area at all times however. Low and private parking, with a small amount of rat levels of trafic can indeed create some activity. The running through St Nicholas St and St Stephens Street removal of the on-street parking to allow businesses to Colston Avenue. This problem would be reduced if to expand out onto the street and more frequent BRT proceeds, however, as there would be service and road closures to encourage a regular programme of emergency access only onto Colston Avenue. events would, however, be promoted. In addition, Priority access is required to the Crown Court on Small the introduction of a 20mph zone would enable the Street, but vehicle numbers are again low and this is removal of a significant number of lines and signs limited to week days. across the area. Dynamic traffic management measures were Retaining vehicles in the area, creating shared introduced in 2007. These are managed by the police surfaces and encouraging greater use of the road and enable St Stephens Street and St Nicholas Street space by pedestrians and cyclists does, however, to be closed to vehicular traffic during weekend bring certain pre-requisites. The road occupies much evenings to support the vibrant night time economy. of the external space and the road surface material They have also enabled a very popular and growing therefore inevitably dominates. Tarmac is interpreted programme of events based around Corn Street by both pedestrians and vehicles as giving priority to that benefit from the unique qualities of the historic vehicles, as demonstrated by the recent decluttering environment and raise its profile within the city (see 1 and environmental improvements in East Street, & 2). Bedminster (see 3). There are problems with the reliability of the hydraulic A change to the road surface on the key routes is bollard system, however, and they are costly to therefore considered essential to transform the maintain. They also bring considerable signage and perception of vehicle and pedestrian priorities in the clutter at key entrance points to the area (see 4 & area. 5). Consideration should be given to replacing these with a more attractive entrance feature, contributing to the identity of the area whilst still performing the essential function of restricting traffic.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 21 3. Environment and economy 1 1. Old City pedestrian and public transport links 2. View of St. Stephens churchyard h i d d e n b y p a r k e d v e h i c l e s 2 3 4 3. Clare Street prior to pedestrianisation 1976 4. Clare Street pedestrianisation
3.7 Loading and refuse vehicles It is recognised that as recommended in the Portas
Review, the availability of some local parking is Old City medieval core project boundary P Large delivery vehicles and refuse vehicles are too essential to support business in the area, albeit our Primary pedestrian/cycle route big to be comfortably accommodated in the narrow survey suggests very few people actually do park in Pedestrian entrance point streets of the Old City. The Council intends to create the Old City, indeed many park some distance away Bus Stop some new loading bays on Baldwin Street which Future BRT stop and walk in. Some disabled parking is also necessary. should help to reduce this problem. P Multi storey car park P P Parking has to be balanced against the value to the 3.8 Parking area of using that space in other ways however, in particular in providing visible, more commercially The area is very well located for multi-storey car attractive frontages and potential outdoor space to parks, the closest being on Queen Charlotte Street, encourage the regeneration of vacant units. Outdoor the Pithay and at the Galleries (see 1). A number of P seating is regarded by many as essential to the success businesses also have private parking and therefore of cafe and restaurant uses. require access . There is a clear precedent for the economic impact of There is on-street pay and display parking on all of removing parking and traffic in the area. In the mid- the roads across the study area. Whilst this provides 1970’s the top of Corn Street and bottom of Clare a service to a few drivers, it actually restricts views Street were closed to through traffic. These areas to business frontages and reduces the visibility of were pedestrianised and are now used by the popular P important amenities, such St Stephens churchyard, markets, cafes and bars that bring life and trade to the which is almost hidden from Corn Street by parked area. (see 3 & 4) cars (see 2). There are however, areas where some new parking On street parking is due to be increased in the next can be accommodated, notably on Baldwin Street. It is few months, as the Council seeks new revenue therefore proposed to balance reducing parking within possibilities. This will reduce opportunities for the Old City area, particularly outside properties with businesses to expand into the street to assist the traditional shop windows, with creating some new regeneration of the area and enable a café culture to parking and loading on peripheral streets. develop. It may also encourage additional vehicles into the area, which could work against developing a more pedestrian oriented environment.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 22 Consultation Draft City Design Group 3. Environment and economy 1 3 1 Legible City signage 2 Heritage Trail spoilt by bins, Market Steps
3 A-boards create a physical and visual barrier, Market Steps 2 4 5 4 Corn Street contra-flow cycle scheme with illuminated signage
5 Agents ‘to let’ signs signal decline, Corn Street
3.9 Road and information signage 3.11 Clutter Old City is not shown on any traffic information The tight streets and footways of the Old City suffer signage, giving passing drivers, particularly tourists, from a multiplicity of clutter. Traffic signs and control no indication they are near the historic core. Only St boxes, cctv, waste bins, A-boards, roadmarkings, Nicholas Market is marked with brown tourist signs. cumulatively reduce the quality of the environment. Consideration should be given to how road signage Ten years ago the Council undertook a decluttering across the city could promote the profile of the area. exercise in the area and successfully removed over 200 signs, either completely or through relocating 3.10 Wayfinding them onto buildings. The area is waymarked for pedestrians and cyclists Transport for London have shown that reducing street through the Legible City system (see 1). There are clutter is the single most cost effective way fo improve fingerposts signing St Nicholas Markets and the the urban environment. There is a need to revisit Register Office across the area and map panels at decluttering the area, building on the work of amenity four points around the area on Small Street, High St, groups such as Bristol Civic Society, who have made a Baldwin Street and the City Centre promenade. start on this project, as many new signs and lines have There are no panels providing directions or appeared with new initiatives (see 4). information within the medieval core however, and BCC have developed a highways protocol for works in the business community are keen to promote the conservation areas which should ensure that future diversity of businesses in the Old City. Consideration works seek to reduce rather than add to this problem. should be given to how this can be incorporated into the area. 3.12 Advertising and telephone boxes A number of walking and audio trails pass through Agent’s signage advertising space to let frequently Old City, notably the Heritage Trail (see 2), but there clutter the historic building facades and can reinforce is no trail dedicated to the medieval core and it’s a sense of decline (see 5). There are numerous ‘A rich history. There is a desire to have more historic boards’ advertising shops and food outlets on the interpretation of the area, and consideration should footways. These spoil the character of interesting be given to how this can be best achieved through historic features and make navigating the area more new media, i-phones etc as well as conventional paper difficult, particularly for less agile or partially sighted formats. users (see 3). There are many telephone boxes across the area. Although well used, many of these attract stickers, graffiti and dirt, creating a poor impression.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 23 1 2 1 Market Steps. An historic asset degraded by the 3. Environment and economy location of waste bins
2 Intrusive CCTV camera pole in Corn St
3 3 Trade waste bins stored on Marsh Lane, 4 dominating the public realm
4 Discreet camera on lamp column
3.13 Bins and cleansing 3.14 Crime, lighting and cctv Accommodating new uses within old and often There are low levels of reported crime across the Old listed buildings in this dense urban area brings City. Most concern antisocial behaviour associated particular challenges in relation to refuse collection. with the night-time economy. Street lighting levels The increasing number of food and drink outlets, in can be variable in the tight streets leaving dark particular, create significant additional refuse. corners that are particularly vulnerable. Localised improvements to lighting should be made to reduce Older premises have generally been allowed to these issues. store rubbish in bins on the street, but new planning applications require off street bin storage. This is Lighting throughout the area is the higher quality difficult to achieve in practice , however, with new teardrop design, often mounted on buildings which residential properties frequently being on upper floors is both attractive and helps to reduce clutter. There without any external space, presenting a constant is little creative lighting to exploit the high quality tension for occupiers and enforcement. architecture and lanes, however, or to highlight focal points. Consideration should be given to increasing The situation is exacerbated by the numerous trade feature ligting in key locations. waste contractors, all of whom require separate bins. The result is numerous large coloured bins in The medieval core has been covered by cctv for some prominent locations across the area. These completely years, but the system has not been upgraded to dominate some streets and entrances to the area, current, less intrusive design standards. This means such as Marsh Street (see 3) and St Stephens Street, that bulky cctv columns occupy prominent locations, and destroy the character of some of the most having a significant impact on key views and reducing attractive historic features, such as the Market Steps the quality of the local environment (see 3). These (see 1). should be upgraded to reduce their visual impact (see 4). There is a clear need to reduce the impact of both domestic and trade waste bins on the Old City to reduce visual clutter and promote more dynamic on- street uses. Options to rationalise waste collections and reduce on-street bins should be explored.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 24 Consultation Draft City Design Group 3. Environment and economy 1 2 1 Empty properties central Corn Street 2 Farmers market
3 Specialist retail
3 4 4 Glass arcade
3.15 Economy means that during the day time there is little activity in some streets. The area contains an eclectic mix of uses. The banks and financial institutions, the Crown Court and The experience of Brighton, faced with the same associated solicitors and barristers chambers are key issues, suggests that a move to a more European economic drivers for the area, creating footfall and style café culture could help to create a more mature providing high quality jobs that help to support the environment, attractive throughout the day and to a local ecomony. The Register Office too, is a significant wider constituency.. Central Corn Street in particular visitor attractor providing an important civic function. would greatly benefit from more retail, day time leisure uses and cultural activities. There is a focus of specialist retail activity around St Nicholas market, but retail activity is otherwise Despite the wide range of activities, considerable dotted sporadically around the area and the numbers of ground floors are currently vacant, peripheral roads, providing limited interest for leaving noticeable gaps in activity in some key areas, visitors. eg Corn Street (see 1). There is also a large amount of underused floorspace at upper levels across There is a small residential population in the area, but the area. Evidence from both The Design Council/ a variety of visitor accommodation from backpackers CABE and English Heritage has shown that public to the Grand Hotel. An increase in residential and realm investment can increase the value of frontage visitor accommodation, particularly in the quieter properties, making buildings easier to let and side streets, could help to increase the vitality of the stimulate inward investment. area. The Portas review looked at high streets and town It is the leisure uses that dominate however. Cafes are centres, but her words are equally applicable to the concentrated in the pedestrianised areas, however, historic core of the Old City: with few in the central core. Old City is a popular clubbing destination and the night time economy of “the future of high streets is of multifunctional and the area is generally successful. social places which offer a clear and compelling Many historic buildings, such as the Commercial purpose and experience that’s not available Rooms, have been redeveloped as bars and clubs. elsewhere, and which meets the interests and They tend to be dominated by younger drinkers, needs of the local people” stag and hen parties, however, and this discourages other users who often positively avoid the area in the evening. It also brings problems of antisocial behaviour, which make it unpleasant to clean up, and
Victoria Park Baptist Church DecemberOld 2010 City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Site assessment City DesignConsultation Group Draft 25 City Design Group 25 1 2 1 Big Green market, 2012, bringing activity right through the Environment and economy area
2 St Nicholas Street, Lack of footfal contruibutes to vacancies
3 4 3 Activity concentrated at top and bottom of Corn Street in pedestrianised areas
4 Active ground floor uses will increase dwell time in Old City
3.16 Markets and events 3.17 Footfall Research by Space Syntax shows that an average of St Nicholas Market and the weekly farmers market 400 people/hour is required for small independent are the single biggest attractor to the Old City area shops, while 200 people/hour are sufficient to support (see 2). They are regarded as the best thing about a café. Current footfall levels on Corn Street are the area, bringing life, activity and many diverse and generally much higher than this, with over 2000/hour independent traders. In recent years weekend road at peak times on market days and the area clearly has closures have enabled a programme of very popular the potential to support retail and leisure uses. events, e.g. Italian Cars and the Big Green market. These have brought large crowds to the area, bringing Whilst there is therefore high footfall up and down benefits to the permanent traders too (see 1). Corn Street, however, activity is concentrated in the pedestrianised areas at the top and bottom St Nicholas Market is currently open from Monday to (see 3). People tend to pass through central zone Saturday. It offers a diverse mix of primarily non-food without stopping and some properties here turn stalls, but also has a thriving food area around the over frequently. This situation is exacerbated by the glass arcade that is very popular at lunchtimes. Access character of some of the listed buildings, both on Corn to the market is mainly from Corn St, so footfall across Street and across the area, many of which have high the market can be variable, particularly towards St windows and fairly closed frontages that do not easily Nicholas St. The grade 1 listed building itself needs lend themselves to the active ground floor uses that some repair work and the upper floors are under can contribute to enlivening the local environment. used. The side streets too, are much quieter, (see 2) and consideration should be given to spreading attractors The Wednesday Farmers market provides the only and footfall to increase trade across the area. fresh produce opportunity, and is now complemented Promoting the cycle routes in these streets could also by a smaller Friday food market running along Wine assist with his process. Street. The monthly Slow Food Sunday market is to be relaunched after declining popularity. Public realm improvements should therefore be designed to maximise the potential of those areas The consultation showed huge support for the where shop and building frontages lend themselves to markets and a desire for an expansion of their active ground floor uses and increase the dwell time remit, with more fresh produce, weekend and and trade in these areas (see 4). evening markets and more events in Old City. The development of a regular programme of markets/ events should be explored.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 26 Consultation Draft City Design Group Historic environment regeneration 4 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 28 Consultation Draft City Design Group 1 2 1 Lane in Gloucester - historic environments provide an 4. Historic environment regeneration optimal environment for activities with a leisure dimension
2 La Rochelle - high quality materials unify the historic core
3 Bristol exhibits good quality historic public realm but is not 3 4 widely perceived as an historic city
4 B a r c e l o n a - p e d e s t r i a n o r i e n t e d s p a c e s w i t h h i g h q u a l i t y paving create relief amongst the dense urban street pattern
4.1 The value of historic environment regeneration 4.2 Examples of historic environment regeneration
Research by English Heritage (Impact of Historic There are many examples of high quality, pedestrian Environment Regeneration, 2010) clearly oriented, historic cores in continental cities such as demonstrates the value of historic environment La Rochelle (see 2), Dusseldorf or Barcelona (see 4). regeneration. It can be shown to: These rely on the understanding that cars will either create jobs and underpin the local economy not be allowed at all or that access and parking will draw in external investment be very limited, indeed that is generally the visitor contribute to quality of life expectation from tourist signs saying ‘Altstadt’ or be a focus for community action ‘Centre Ville’. Pedestrians, cyclists and cars mix freely be an important place in local cultural activities at low speeds with little advisory signage and life spills out onto the street, making them very attractive It demonstrates that historic environments provide an tourist destinations. optimal setting for activities with a leisure dimension because people instinctively like the older buildings Such cities provide inspiration about how reducing and ambience they create. As typified by Bristol’s parking and traffic can contribute to a vibrant, medieval core, historic environments tend to be decluttered and pedestrian oriented environment, and occupied by specialist and independent traders, and in perhaps a vision for what ‘Old City’ should mean for an increasingly corporate world it is the historic areas Bristol. They also reflect in their detailing and lack of of cities that differentiate them from each other. signs a different legal framework and attitude towards risk, however. In addition, those cities most associated with their historic environment, such as York, are the most We have therefore considered four recent English popular tourist destinations. Bristol competes well examples where historic core improvements for visitors against other larger cities, but is not have increased business confidence and changed currently widely perceived as a historic city, probably perceptions of areas, and also to recent work in due to the post war redevelopment of the retail core. Bristol, to see what lessons can be learned. Improving the quality of the environment in the Old City and thus raising the profile of the medieval core would therefore not only benefit the local business community but also the wider tourist offer of the city.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 29 4. Historic environment regeneration 1 3 1 College Square, Bristol city centre 2 Champion Square, St Judes
3 East Street, Bedminster 4 4 New Road, Brighton 2
College Square, Bristol city centre : New Road, Brighton Completed in 2009 a rejuvenated street layout Very low traffic flows, removing some parking and provides access to a range of shops and restaurants, decluttering has created a much better setting for businesses and residences, and several world famous the surrounding listed buildings. Although there are destinations. still footways, the change of road surface encourages most people to walk on the road (see 1). By adopting the concept of a shared space the scheme has transformed a traditional, motorist dominated Champion Square, St Judes : street scene into one where pedestrians are able to move freely over the whole area and feel they have Very low traffic flows on this cul-de-sac have allowed priority over other users. a shared surface to operate safely. Block paving on the The inclusion within the design of attractive features road surface contributes to the free use of the road by such as bespoke seating and lighting has improved pedestrians (see 2). the experience of the many people who now use the area. Encouraging outside seating for restaurants East Street, Bedminster: and bars has made the area much more attractive for visitors and rebalanced the clientele away from the Recent improvements reduced signage and clutter by domination by stag and hen parties. The new café about 40%, A number of new trees were introduced culture has a lively and welcoming atmosphere that is and the road was resurfaced. The budget did not allow visitor friendly both during the day and in the evening. for a move away from tarmac, however, and the road (see 4) therefore still dominates the streetscape and creates the impression that pedestrians should stay behind the bollards (see 3.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 30 Consultation Draft City Design Group 4. Historic environment regeneration 1 3 1 Lincoln 2 Gloucester
3 Dean Street, Graingertown, Newcastle
2
Lincoln City The regeneration resulted in the creation of in excess 2000 new jobs and over 200 new businesses. Grey Driven by changes to its local economy that Street has since been acknowledged in a BBC Radio threatened the historic character of the town 4 survey as ‘among the greatest streets in England, if centre Lincoln devised its City Centre Masterplan not Europe’ (2007). in 2006. This has been used to provide public realm improvements in its Cultural, Cathedral, High Street Gloucester Docks and Waterfront Quarters. The South West Regional Development Agency and Pedestrian links around the area have been improved Gloucester Heritage Urban Regeneration Company and a vibrant feel generated by improving the streets commissioned works to the principal pedestrian route using high quality materials that complement the and associated spaces from the new Outlet Centre in historic setting. The scheme links together parts the regenerated docks into the city centre. of the city that had become fragmented and has increased pedestrian flow, improving both cultural Completed in 2010 the scheme comprises a mixture and commercial connectivity. The newly improved of shared surfaces and shared space treatments quarters have now become places to socialise and in high quality natural materials. Parking has been have engendered a new sense of civic pride. (see 1) removed and clear, legible, pedestrian priority streets and spaces now define the route (see 2). New street Graingertown, Newcastle – on – Tyne furniture, trees, stone steps, feature lighting and Grey Street and Dean Street (see 3) provide an public art commissions inspired by local stories add important pedestrian between Newcastle city centre character to complement the historic environment. and the Quayside. This major regeneration project Summary sought to address the economic and material decline of the area, noted for its high quality ‘Tyneside The common threads running through these projects classical’ Georgian architecture. are: removing parking and reallocating space to Between 1997 and 2007 major improvements were pedestrians ie a shared space approach carried out to the public realm. Some shopping areas a change in road surface away from tarmac to alter were pedestrianised with high quality stone paving the perception of priorities in the space and new bespoke street furniture. Footways were variety of design approaches, using both shared widened to allow buses through a shared space surface and kerbs where appropriate around the core at Eldon Square with minimal road high quality materials markings and signs. Parallel works were undertaken to decluttering listed buildings, which further instilled confidence.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 31 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 32 Consultation Draft City Design Group Community engagement 5 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 34 Consultation Draft City Design Group 1 5. Community engagement 1 Consultation outside St Nicholas Market 2 Public realm workshop
2
The medieval core is highly valued by many people 5.2 See no Evil August 2011 across the city, indeed many see it as a hidden gem. Perceptions of Corn Street were also sought as part of The community have expressed their views about the the See No Evil street art project in 2011 . The most area on a number of occasions, consistently praising popular descriptions were “Interesting, busy, historic, the historic character and markets, and consistently market and lively”. calling for the impact of traffic to be reduced in the area. These include: 5.4 Draft Public Realm and Movement Framework 2012 5.1 Draft Bristol Central Area Action Plan (BCAAP) Stakeholders were very supportive of the focus on 2012 the Old City, of the pedestrian route network and the The BCAAP was developed through a process aspiration for a less car-dependent city. of community involvement starting in 2010 and 5.5 Public consultation Wednesday 20 June 2012 comprising both online activity and focussed stakeholder workshops. Initial consultations took place outside St Nicholas Market on market day, Wednesday 20 June. This Stakeholders valued the vitality, vibrancy and gathered current perceptions of the area and ideas for recreational value of the neighourhood. The historic improving it (see also Appendix 1). buildings, markets and street pattern are all highly regarded and many consider that traffic should be People are very positive about the area and return reduced to promote tourism and markets. regularly. They generally come for more than one activity, reflecting the mixed use character of the It was felt that Corn Street needs “to be closed to area. The markets and the architecture are seen as the vehicle traffic and the farmers market and similar best things, along with the variety of independent/ facilities should be allowed to spread further local shops, the character, history and streetlife. The across the area” and “the paraphernalia of traffic pedestrianised areas are very popular and a majority management.... strikes and especially jarring note in support removing parking from Corn Street. the historic surroundings of the Old City.” (BCAAP p105) There was support for more residential The 1960’s architecture on the corner of Castle Park development and flexibility in Class A uses. The and Pithay/Nelson Street is unpopular and seen as a pedestrianisation of Corn Street was amongst the blight on the area. Too many ‘downmarket’ bars, poor most popular ideas. quality, dirty footways and bins were also seen as a problem. These comments were reiterated in the responses to the BCAAP consultation draft 2012. Most people walk to the area. Although 27% come to Bristol by car, most park well away and walk in.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 35 1 1 Favourite places in Old City were shown with 5. Community engagement red dots, least favourite with blue dots
5.6 Favourite places survey 20 June 5.8 Old City Business Group Action Plan People were also asked to identify their favourite Destination Bristol has been commissioned by BCC and least favourite places by placing dots on an aerial Economic Regeneration team to support the Old City photograph (see 1). business community and promote trade and tourism in the city. Destination Bristol is facilitating regular St Nicholas market, especially the covered food area meetings and the group have developed an Old City and the pedestrianised farmers market, was by far Action Plan that includes many issues which overlap the favourite location. The St Mary-le-Port site was with the scope of this report, notably: - overwhelmingly the least favourite place, attracting I d e n ti t y many negative comments about the architecture, it Entrances cutting pedestrian routes and blocking out views and Traffic and Parking access to the church. Cleanliness and waste storage 5.7 Public realm workshop 20 June These are issues being pursued separately by the group, but it is anticipated that some may be A workshop with a small number of city amenity addressed through collaboration on the outcomes of groups, eg Civic Society and local business this report and cooperation in bidding for funding. representatives, was held at St Stephens church. The workshop focussed primarily on the detail of the The Old City Business Group have submitted a bid historic streetscape. It demonstrated that despite for £100k Local Sustainable Transport Grant funding the overwhelming poor impression of concrete and (part of the Invest in Bristol Fund) to work with BCC to patched footways there is still a considerable amount enhance the entrances to the area, including resolving of old stone and cast iron remaining in the area. the issues of the hydraulic bollards. The outcome of this bid will be known in October. The workshop included a wider discussion about aspirations for the public realm in the area. This gave unanimous support to reducing traffic and parking through the area at all times, in particular to more regular road closures at weekends to facilitate events/ more markets/animation etc. There was also support for decluttering – signs, road markings and bins etc but also for more cycle racks and hanging baskets.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 36 Consultation Draft City Design Group Framework for improvements 6 6. Framework for improvements
6.1 Introduction This report proposes a framework to bring about a transformation in the quality of the public realm in the The medieval core of the Old City is a unique and medieval core. (see fig opposite) This would : much loved area and a key pedestrian route across the city. The generally poor quality of the public realm does not, however, reflect the high quality of raise the profile of the medieval core as a its historic buildings. The environment is dominated unique destination by parked cars and clutter, with little space to dwell raise the image of Bristol as a historic city and enjoy the ambience. promote a distinct identity for the public realm in Old City to reinforce its unique qualities Historic townscape improvement projects across the provide the opportunity for a greater diversity of country have clearly demonstrated how this can be uses and events changed by investing in the public realm, increasing build on the success of St Nicholas markets and local pride, the vitality and economy of these areas. promote further opportunities for events There is overwhelming support from the public, local improve the pedestian and cycling experience businesses and amenity groups and the council’s increase visitor activity and dwell time policy documents for a similar regeneration of Old boost business confidence City. High quality public realm improvements are very expensive however and there is little funding to implement them in the current economic climate. It will therefore be necessary to be pragmatic and accept that works will only be achieved incrementally. This framework will, however, provide a strategy to guide future changes and form the basis for funding bids and s106 negotiations.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 38 Consultation Draft City Design Group Improvements framework
Priority areas of improvements
Focussed improvements at nodes
Corridor improvements
Entrance improvements
Improved pedestrian and cycle links
Local improvements to spaces
Area improved in BRT works
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 39 1 2 1 Road space can move between shared surface and with 6. Framework for improvements traditional kerbs to highlight nodes
2 Works should enhance the setting and views to focal buildings
3 Entrances should signal the start of a distinctive area 3 4 4 Road crossings should prioritise pedestrian movements
6.2 Principles Principle 2: Improve the quality of the public realm across Old City The framework will be guided by the following principles : Improving the quality of the public realm is central to a revitalised historic core and to changing the Principle 1: Reduce the impact of traffic and parking perception and economy of the area. throughout Old City This will include: Vehicular access into the area will be maintained Developing concept designs for entrances, key at most times, but shared space principles will nodes, corridor improvements and individual be adopted, with more priority being given to spaces pedestrians and cyclists and road space being Designing and detailing the public realm reallocated for other uses. to reinforce a sense of place, reflect local distinctiveness, protect key views etc This will include: Using high quality materials to reflect the Reducing road widths architecture and historic character of the area Removing on-street parking on key pedestrian Reducing roadspace to encourage pedestrians, routes, especially on Corn Street and Clare Street cycling, on-street activity and a café culture Removing on-street parking where building Creating more opportunities to linger and enjoy frontages support active uses, eg Marsh Street the ambience Relocating some motorcycle and cycle parking into Creating uncluttered streetscapes parking bays Identifying locations for new street trees Creating new loading bays on Baldwin Street to Using lighting more creatively to highlight buildings reduce the need for vehicular access etc More road closures to facilitate events Creating a shared surface in some key locations to reinforce pedestrian priority and facilitate pedestrian and cycle movement Changing the materials and character of the road surfaces to reinforce pedestrian priority Introducing 20mph zone to reduce clutter Replacing the hydraulic bollards with a more reliable traffic management system that will also create an attractive gateway into the area
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 40 Consultation Draft City Design Group 1 2 6. Framework for improvements 1 Queen Square - high quality materials unify the streetscene 2 High quality pennant slabs in Albion Chambers
3 Existing high quality materials should be preserved 3 4 4 Redundant signage should be removed
Principle 3 : Reduce street clutter across Old City Principle 4 : Develop a palette of materials to reinforce the identity of this distinct area
Excessive signage and clutter is detracting from The character of the public realm, its design, paving the high quality of the built environment. Much is materials and street furniture, can contribute redundant, unnecessary, or badly located and there greatly to the identity of an area, bringing disparate is a need to rationalise it to essential material only. elements together and unifying them. It is essential to identify a range of materials and detailing to be This will include: used to create an identity across the area. Evaluating all road and pedestrian signs, road markings, street furniture, CCTV cameras etc High quality materials are extremely expensive Removing, reducing or relocating traffic both to buy and to maintain however, and it seems management and information signs where possible unlikely that there will be sufficient funding to to minimise posts etc use them throughout the whole area. A range of Enforcing against unauthorised advertising approaches may therefore be appropriate. A-boards, signage etc Introducing 20mph zone to reduce clutter from This will include : lines and signs Working with historic paving materials such as Ensuring that the protocol for highway works cast iron kerbs and stone gutters to reinforce local in conservation areas is adopted for all future distinctiveness highway and maintenance projects Retaining and reusing historic assets Understanding the technical constraints created by the underground cellars on materials and construction techniques Understanding the capital cost and maintenance implications of different materials Using the highest quality materials in the most prominent locations - nodes and entrances - to maximise the impact of the works Using materials to reinforce pedestrian priority across the area
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 41 Framework for improvements 1 1 Informative bike parking - Bath 2 Marsh Street; Trade bins and inadequate bike parking facilities
2
Principle 5: Improve pedestrian and cycle linkages Principle 6: Reduce the impact of waste and improve into and around Old City cleansing operations
Old City is primarily an environment that is reached The narrow streets of Old City are currently blighted and appreciated on foot or by bike. It is therefore by large numbers of coloured bins. These are essential that pedestrian and cycle links into the area visually intrusive and unpleasant to be near, are good and that the public realm provides a high reducing the potential for more dynamic on-street quality experience and encourages people to move activity. Weekend night-life brings antisocial off Corn Street to explore. behaviour, leaving streets dirty and smelling. The impact of waste and antisocial behaviour must be This will include: addressed. Reducing road widths and widening footways Ensuring footway widths are adequate for disabled This will include : use, with drop kerbs where necessary and suitable Working with local businesses and contractors to smooth surfaces reduce the quantity of on-street waste bins Reinforcing pedestrian priority through speed Enforcing the internal storage of waste where tables, creating shared surfaces at key entrances, possible eg Broad Street Exploring options for rationalising trade and Reinforcing the important cycle links into and domestic waste collections through the area on St Nicholas Street, Corn Street, Encouraging businesses to keep frontage St Stephens Street and Small Street pavements clean and tidy Improving the pedestrian and cycling environment Reviewing cleansing schedules to reflect weekend on the busy peripheral roads, eg Baldwin Street/ culture High Street junction Removing all graffiti and tagging Minimising the visual impact of cycle lanes Ensuring BT etc keep telephone boxes clean and Changing surface treatments at entrances to the free of tagging etc area to reinforce pedestrian/cycle movement Relocating pedestrian crossings to reflect pedestrian desire lines into the area eg Market Steps Providing more bike parking and seating
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 42 Consultation Draft City Design Group 6. Framework for improvements 1 3 1&2 Create shared surface from Market Steps and behind St Nicholas market to allow greater use of street 3 Explore the expansion of markets and on street activity on St. Nicholas Street 4 Develop cafe culture once parking is removed (image from 2 4 Bath)
Principle 7: Raise the profile of the medieval core Principle 8: Promote Markets and events
The Old City has no through traffic and is not St Nicholas market and the weekly food markets identified on traffic signage. It therefore has limited are the biggest and most popular attractor to the visibility for road users and visitors in particular, area. The Exchange building itself is underused and potentially reducing trade for the area and their in need of repair and footfall reduces significantly experience of Bristol as a historic city. towards St Nicholas Street and the empty St Nicholas church. This will include: Improving signage to Old City on key pedestrian It will include: and vehicular routes, at entrances and bus stops Exploring possibilities for expanding the market Improving the entrances into Old City to reinforce and related activities into adjacent empty them as gateways into a distinctive area properties Developing a new interpretation and history trail Exploring possibilities for night markets etc for the area Increasing pedestrian and on-street activity on St Developing local information and wayfinding for Nicholas Street the area Exploring options for the reuse of upper floors of Using St Nicholas market foyer as a hub for local The Exchange information Developing a regular programme of events and Introducing maps/information on Old City into markets to complement proposed road closures local multi-storey car parks Encouraging NCP to rename Queen Charlotte Principle 9: Encourage diversity of uses and restore Street car park the Old City car park historic links as buildings are redeveloped Developing a regular programme of events and markets to complement proposed road closures Development Management is outside the scope of this project but clearly impacts on the potential of Old City. Encouraging an eclectic mixture of uses, and in particular more residential uses, will reinforce its dis- tinct qualities and provide greater activity throughout the day and footfall across the area. Future redevelopment along Wine Street, St-Mary-le- Port and around The Pithay should also be mixed use and designed to reconnect historic routes.
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 43 6. Framework for improvements
6.3 Work packages Decluttering and area wide improvements: Priority Cost Time Frame The principles set out in 6.2 provide the basis of prioritised work packages. These have been divided into decluttering and area wide improvements and Reduce impact of trade and domestic bins H £ S street specific proposals in the following tables. Replace / relocate outdated CCTV cameras H ££ S A level of priority, relative cost and time frame has been assigned to the tasks reflecting the need for Evaluate all road and pedestrian signs, road markings, street H £ S detailed investigative and design work, legal processes furniture such as Traffic Regulation Orders and the resources (both financial and staff) required to achieve their Enforce against excessive advertising and A boards H £ S implementation. Decluttering operations are clearly relatively less Install signage for Old City at entrance points and tourist bus H £ S resource demanding and are therefore more easily stops implemented. Major improvement works will take Identify locations for new street trees L £ S considerably more time to design, consult upon and implement. Ensure the protocol for highway works in conservation areas is H £ S adopted
Key
Priority: H - High; M - Medium; L - Low
Cost: £££ - High; ££ - Medium; £ - Low
Time Frame: L - Long; M - Medium; S - Short
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 44 Consultation Draft City Design Group Street Specific Proposals: Priority Cost Time Frame
Corn Street/Clare Street Remove parking to encourage active on street uses H £ S Extend impact of pedestrianised areas, extending shared surfaces across junctions H £££ L Continue improvements on Corn Steet/ Clare Street corridor L £££ L Marsh Street Remove parking and reduce bins H £ S Construct shared space to encourage active uses M £££ M St. Stephens Street Redesign entrance, building out footways to encourage active uses H £££ M St. Stephens Avenue Create new urban square to west of St. Stephens churchyard L £££ L Broad Street Create new urban square with speed table to promote pedestrian route H £££ M Improve entrance at St. John’s Gate L ££ L Increase width of paving in front of shops to facilitate on street activity L ££ M Baldwin Street Relocate pedestrian crossing to align with Market Steps H ££ M Upgrade cycling provision, particularly at Queen Charlotte Street junction H ££ M Rationalise bus stops to create new loading bays and parking H £ S Reduce road widths with build outs and boulevard treatment M £££ L St Nicholas Street Create entrance feature including replacing hydraulic bollards H ££ S Construct shared space from High St to Market Steps M £££ M Small Street Create new square in front of the Guildhall L £££ M High Street Improve pedestrian and cycle crossings to St Mary-le-Port and Bridge Street H ££ M
North east quadrant : Wine Street, Fairfax Street, The Pithay and All Saints Street Improve the main pedestrian corridor on Wine Street L £££ L Provide gateway improvements at entrances to area L ££ L
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 45 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 46 Consultation Draft City Design Group Recommendations and next steps 7 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 48 Consultation Draft City Design Group Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study
7. Recommendations and next steps
Recommendations Next steps It is essential to be pragmatic in recommending priorities in this difficult economic climate and to The next steps in taking forward this framework for accept that it will not be possible at this stage to improvements will be to : undertake the major regeneration works to the agree the principle of this framework with internal highest quality that area deserves. Works will and external stakeholders inevitably need to be undertaken in phases and agree priorities, funding and staff resources have been prioritised in relation to costs, the level of available for the project impact and to respond to community concerns and commission initial work packages: aspirations. topographical survey archeaological survey Works and timescales will clearly be dependent on the develop concept designs for priority areas levels of funding and staff resources across different start process of decluttering departments that are made available to the project. develop materials palette It is recommended that the priorities should be: Timescales
� Start a decluttering programme, especially Subject to funding and staff resources declutter- reducing the impact of trade and domestic ing works will be started immediately and regular waste, traffic and highways signage and Saturday road closures will start spring 2013. A-boards � Build on the success of St Nicholas market Other works, including changes to roads, parking and reinforce the primary pedestrian route and access arrangements will require a much more by redesigning the space at the Broad extensive period of stakeholder engagement and Street/Corn Street junction formal processes such as Traffic Regulation Orders. � Use road closures to develop a regular These works would take a minimum of 6-12 months. monthly programme of markets/events to animate the Old City and raise the profile of the area � Review options to remove parking from Corn Street and Clare Street to enable outdoor uses for frontage businesses
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 49 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 50 Consultation Draft City Design Group Appendices 8 Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 52 Consultation Draft City Design Group Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study
Appendices
Appendix 1: Summary of survey June 2012 If by car, where did you park? Three bad things about the streets and spaces of Where are you from? this area? Summary of 71 no questionnaires completed Bristol 63% Wednesday 20.06.12 (market day) outside the Car parks 13% 23% didn’t specify anything bad about the area South west 14% entrance to St Nicholas market 4 in local multistoreys, 2 in local private parking, 1960s buildings Quay St/Nelson St/ If you are not from Bristol, how did you hear about others had walked some distance from car parks Pithay/Tower Lane/DoE 21% this area? What do you usually call this area? Downmarket nightime bars and effects of 18% On street 13% Word of mouth 4 people St Nicks 29% Dirty/litter/bins 17% 1 motorbike on St Stephens St Corn St 29% 1 on Clare St, 1 on High St Poor quality pavements/chewing gum 15% The other 6 parked on streets well away and walked in Why did you usually come here? Too much traffic 11%
Market 63% Do you think it would be a good idea to remove Three good things about the streets and spaces of parking from Corn Street? Shop 44% this area? Yes 46% Work 41% (Farmers ) Market/good food stalls 55% No 22% Just walking/cycling through 35% Architecture 38% What are your ideas for making the streets and Café/Bar 32% spaces of the Old City area even better? St Nicholas/Food market (covered) 25% Bank 27% 20% didn’t specify anything they wanted to change Atmosphere/Character/streetlife 25% about the area How often do you come here? Shopping - variety, independent and Less traffic/parking + complete/more Weekly 49% local traders 25% pedestrianistation 31% Daily 38% History/historic environment 18% More frequent markets and events 28% How did you get here? Pedestrianised areas of Corn St/Clare St 17% More interpretation/restoration of Walk 55% architecture and history 14% Old Buildings 13% Cycle 25% Improving linkages for pedestrians/cyclists 13% Bus 20% There were lots of individual comments about places, Car 27% smells of good food, character etc Better cleansing/maintenance of footways etc 11%
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 53 Appendix 2: Parking restrictions from Autumn 2012 Core area
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 54 Consultation Draft City Design Group Appendix 2: Parking restrictions from Autumn 2012 North-east quadrant
Old City Core Public Realm Scoping Study October 2012 Consultation Draft City Design Group 55 City Design October 2012 Group City Design Group