Gowkthrapple signage interpretation & arts framework by GCV Green Network Partnership

GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

gowkthrapple

signage, interpretation + arts framework prepared by

Urban Design Futures Urban Design, Planning + Landscape info@urbandesignfutures.co.uk www.urbandesignfutures.co.uk in association with:-

James Carter MSc FAHI Communication, Interpretation and Training +

David Wilson Environmental Artist +

Glidden Design Branded Environments + Corporate Identity Specialists

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

contents

GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

contents Executive Summary ........................................................... 1 1.00

Introduction...........................................................................2 - purpose of study....................................................2 - methodology..........................................................2

2.00

Development Context.......................................................... 3

3.00

Audit .................................................................................... 6 - directional signage................................................ 6 - street and placename signage.............................. 8 - other signage...................................................... 10 - interpretation + artworks.......................................12

4.00

Framework Proposals........................................................ 14 - general approach.................................................14 - main elements.....................................................15 - interpretation.......................................................27

5.00

Cost Estimates...................................................................29 Appendices

1. Consultees............................................31 2. Indicative Total Costs............................32

aerial view circa 2001/5 Urban Design Futures

May 2009

GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

executive summary Purpose of the Framework

Audit of Existing Signage + Artworks

The report presents a framework for the design and installation of signage, interpretation and arts opportunities for the Gowkthrapple area.

The main findings from the audit of existing signage were:-

The framework forms part of a Strategic Masterplan for Gowkthrapple, which is being led by North Lanarkshire Council, and a wider greenspace regeneration initiative that is being led by the Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green Network Partnership as part of its portfolio of ‘stronger community’ projects.

• • • • •

a lack of vehicular directional signage to Gowkthrapple a lack of pedestrian/ cyclist directional signage connecting Gowkthrapple with nearby facilities/ places of interest a lack of streetname signage in all areas except Heathfield a lack of placename signage to denote entry into Gowkthrapple and Garrion Business Park an overprovision of non-statutory information signage

The principal aims of the framework are:• • • •

to aid orientation and improve the legibility of the area. to strengthen the identity of the area. to strengthen linkages with surrounding settlements + places of interest. to assist in making greenspace ‘fit for purpose’.

Further implied aims are the promotion of community engagement and reinforcement of the proposals contained in the Gowkthrapple Strategic Materplan and Greenspace and Green Network Study. It is intended that the framework will guide the development of signage and interpretation as Gowkthrapple evolves over the coming years and that it will establish a quality standard that can be used as a basis for work with developers, planners and the local community.

Framework Proposals The general approach has been to keep the framework as simple and as straightforward as possible and to develop it in a way that will not only be of relevance to the local community but will actively promote and encourage additional community engagement.

The fruit trees are intended to soften the effect of the walling, whilst also referencing the fruit orchards that used to be a common feature in this part of the Clyde Valley.

Methodology The framework has been prepared by a combination of desk top research, site survey and discussion with public agencies and stakeholder groups including Garrion Peoples Housing Cooperative, Castlehill Primary School, Clyde Valley High, the Gowkthrapple Developing Projects Group and NLC officials.

It is intended that the kit of parts will provide a framework to guide the development of signage and interpretation as Gowkthrapple evolves over the coming years and establish a quality standard that can be used as a basis for work with developers, planners and the local community.

It is envisaged that key elements of the framework will be developed through further, more intensive community engagement including schools projects and events as outlined in the main body of the report.

The kit of parts is linked by a common theme which is incorporated as a ‘branding’ feature in all elements to create a stronger sense of place / community identity. The final choice of theme would be made in

May 2009

The core elements of the kit of parts are stone pillars, undulating stone walls, fruit trees and proprietary signage which has been customised to incorporate the chosen ‘branding’ theme. The design of the stone pillars is based on the existing stone pillar sculptures at the entrance to Smith Avenue. It is envisaged that the proposed pillars will be topped with a variety of different sculpted features which will be the subject of managed community involvement - ideally involving local school children - to further add to their relevance and distinctiveness. Wall construction could also form the basis of a skills training programme for local schoolchildren and the unemployed.

There are a range of artworks in the area of variable quality. Most successful were considered to be the pillar sculptures at the entrance to Smith Avenue and the ‘grafitti boards’ in Castlehill Community Park both of which were carried out in close collaboration with the local communuity.

Rather than providing a fixed set of proposals the framework proposes a more flexible kit of parts the components of which can be combined in a variety of different ways, developed to incorporate community produced elements and expanded or contracted in quantity to meet budgetary constraints.

Urban Design Futures

collaboration with the local community. However, the theme of ‘the cuckoo’ has been adopted for the purposes of illustration within the report as it relates to the derivation pf the placename ‘Gowkthrapple ‘ The cuckoo is also regarded as the ‘Envoy of Spring’ - a symbol of regeneration/ new life which echoes the current redevelopment aspirations for the area.

Pedestrian/ cyclist directional signage has been designed to comply with the requirements of the Land Reform ( Scotland) Act 2003 and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Stainless steel signs are proposed for urban locations and timber signs for rural locations. In both cases the proprietary sign systems will incorporate customised elements to continue the ‘branding’ theme. Budget costs have been provided on a unit cost basis in keeping with the ‘kit of parts’ approach for the framework, which would enable the number of elements ultimately selected and their complexity to vary as required.

Page 1

introduction

GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

1.00

Purpose of Study The purpose of this report is to present a framework for the design and installation of signage, interpretation and arts opportunities for the Gowkthrapple area. The framework forms part of a Strategic Masterplan for Gowkthrapple, which is being led by North Lanarkshire Council, and a wider greenspace regeneration initiative that is being led by the Glasgow and Clyde Valley (GCV) Green Network Partnership as part of its portfolio of ‘stronger community’ projects. The principal aims of the framework are:• • • •

Further implied aims which have underpinned all aspects of the framework have been the promotion of community engagement and reinforcement of the proposals contained in the Gowkthrapple Strategic Materplan and Greenspace and Green Network Study. It is intended that the framework will guide the development of signage and interpretation as Gowkthrapple evolves over the coming years and that it will establish a quality standard that can be used as a basis for work with developers, planners and the local community. The framework has been prepared by a multi disciplinary team led by urban design, planning and landscape consultants Urban Design Futures and including interpretation consultant James Carter, environmental artist David Wilson and signage and wayfaring specialists Glidden Design.

Methodology The framework has been prepared by a combination of desk top research, site survey and discussion with public agencies and stakeholder groups.

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

The principal policy documents used to inform the framework have been:• • • • •

Gowkthrapple Strategic Masterplan Gowkthrapple Greenspace and Green Network Study Southern Area Local Plan North Lanarkshire Local Plan (Consultation Draft) North Lanarkshire Council Public Access Strategy

Best practice guidance including the Paths for All Partnership ‘ Advisory Signage for Outdoor Access : Good Practice Principles’ and relevant exemplar projects were referred to throughout the study and are referenced where appropriate in the text. A series of site visits were carried out during January - March 2009 to carry out a full audit of existing signage, interpretation and arts provisions and to identify current problems and opportunities. Information gathering meetings were also held with Ironside Farrar, Garrion Peoples Housing Cooperative, Castlehill Primary School, Clyde Valley High and NLC officials during this same period. Preliminary framework proposals were discussed with Garrion Peoples Housing Cooperative, Castlehill Primary School, Clyde Valley High, the Gowkthrapple Developing Projects Group and NLC officials.

fig. 1 Location Plan

Throughout the project regular meetings were also held with representatives from the client and principal stakeholder bodies:Lyndsay Noble North Lanarkshire Council James Kerr GCV Green Network Partnership Sue Harris Scottish Government Housing Investment Division It is envisaged that key elements of the framework will be developed through further, more intensive community engagement including schools projects and events as outlined in the main body of the report.

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GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

development context

2.00

Gowkthrapple lies approximately 2 miles to the south of Wishaw on the B754. It is one of six defined communities in the area, the others being Waterloo, Overtown, Netherton, Greenhead and Pather. It has a declining population which currently stands at around 800 and is identified in the Index of Multiple Deprivation as one of the most deprived communities in North Lanarkshire. Whilst much of the land to the north, east and west of Gowkthrapple is urbanized, the land to the south, in strong contrast, is almost exclusively rural, sloping down to the River Clyde and containing significant areas of mature woodland, Cambusnethan House and the Clyde Walkway. The area around Gowkthrapple was designated as a Community Growth Area in the 2006 Glasgow and Clyde Valley Structure Plan Alteration and, subsequently, in the 2007 North Lanarkshire Local Plan (Consultative Draft). In November 2006 the GCV Green Network Partnership Board approved support for a Green Network regeneration project at Gowkthrapple as part of its ‘stronger communities’ portfolio. In early 2007 a regeneration Strategic Masterplan for Gowkthrapple was produced in consultation with the local community (Gowkthrapple Regeneration Group) and key public agencies. This was followed by a Greenspace and Green Network Study in 2008. The Masterplan proposes the following vision for Gowkthrapple: ‘‘A vibrant small community that offers a mix of housing types, tenure and neighbourhoods clustered around a core of community services with good local access to services, schools and on-site convenience shops. Housing will offer a wider mix of housing type and styles with significantly greater numbers of private sector owner-occupied housing but including design neutral affordable housing and social rented/ shared equity housing in differing proportions within each of four new neighbourhoods. Community facilities will be retained and enhanced, developed around a new cluster at the main access junction on Castlehill Road with reinvestment in education provision.’’

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

The preferred scenario as currently being developed from the Masterplan to achieve this vision includes :•

an increase in the number of homes from 460 currently to 1,040 by 2014

•

an increase in the number of residents from 800 to 2,080 over the same period;

•

an increase in the school roll from 58-72 to 120-150;

•

the provision of a facilities development ( The Hub ) to include shop(s), offices, community space and transport interchange.

•

the provision of new parkland, greenspace and a recreational sports facility.

The scenario retains and upgrades Garrion Business Park, but introduces the possibility of relocating Castlehill Primary School to the Clyde Valley High School campus, which would be redeveloped to accommodate it as part of a new Community Campus which would also provide a library, pre-school and community facilities.

fig. 2 2007 North Lanarkshire Local Plan.

Vechicular access to the area is from a new loop road network with access points onto Castlehill Road at the existing Allershaw Road and Smith Avenue junctions. The road network incorporates a central ‘street’ / green network route running through the area to connect with key features including the existing Community Park and the proposed Hub development. New housing is located in 4 distinct neighbourhood units: Smiths Park, Woodside Park, Heathfield Park phase 2 and Castlehill Park containing a mixture of social rented, affordable and private sector housing. More specifically public art and signage improvement - linking the opportunities for public art to signage and route furniture and providing interpretive elements to link experience with the Clyde Valley - forms one of the 20 core projects that are proposed in the Gowkthrapple Greenspace and Green Network Study. Planning approval has recently been obtained for the The Hub complex which will form a main focal point within the area.

fig. 3

Strategic Masterplan for Gowkthrapple

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GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

development context

PAINTED PLASTERBOARD INTERNAL WALL COLOURS TO MA BRICKS OUTSIDE ALLOW THREE COLOURS

PAINTED PLASTERBOARD ON INTERNAL WALLS

4 ION AT ELEV

ION 2 ELEVAT

PRECAST PANELS WITH RELIEFED PATTERN TO RECEPTION DESK INTERNAL STREET SLABS

ELEVATION 3

EXTERIOR VIEW FROM SMITH AVENUE TO ENTRANCE

GREEN ROOF

D ROOF LIGHT

SARNAFIL ROOF

ELEVATION 2

INTERIOR VIEW FROM RECEPTION ALONG COVERED STREET

(Refer to Elevation 4 for elevational arrangement for this section) B

ELEVATION 1

SMITH AVENUE

ROOF PLAN DIAGRAM NTS

main entrance

ELEVATION 3

coloured render

ELEVATION 1

local shop

Security gate behind - refer to plans for location/extent

pedestrian gate

ELEVATION 4 10.11.08 AS

Car park fencing detail updated. Roof height reduced. Window positions, numbers updated to suit current plans.

30.09.08 RT

11.08.08 JB

26.08.08 JB

Elevations updated - precast panels reduced in number, Roof plan updated - green roof changed to aluminium standing seam roof. Elevations updated - precast panels reduced in width, windows reduced in width and height and opening sections added. Section/Roof plan updated to indicate simplified roof form over covered street/greenspace block Elevations updated - extent of precast reduced, Trespa replaced with reclaimed brickwork, plasterboard finish to covered street walls

26.06.08 JB

01.06.08 JB

DATE -

CHKD -

REV -

BY -

Materials Key

Green Sedum roof by Bauder or similar

Double glazed timber hard- wood frame, assume 50% openable, tilt and turn

100mm precast panels with reliefed pattern 3 No. colours

NOTES -

CLIENT -

DO NOT SCALE FROM DRAWING ALL DIMENSIONS TO BE CHECKED ON SITE PRIOR TO THE START OF ANY WORK AND ANY DISCREPANCIES NOTIFIED IN WRITING. REFER TO ENGINEERS' DRAWINGS FOR ALL STRUCTURAL, HEATING, LIGHTING, POWER, EXTERNAL AND UNDERGROUND DRAINAGE AND VENTILATION INFORMATION ALL BUILDING WORKS TO COMPLY IN ALL RESPECTS TO CURRENT BUILDING STANDARDS FOR COUNTRY IN WHICH SITE IS LOCATED.

DRAWING -

Reclaimed brick - stackbonded in 3 No. standards colours by Ibstock or equal

Elevations updated with new cladding materials, mezzanine added to section

GARRION PEOPLE'S HOUSING CO-OPERATIVE PROJECT -

NEW COMMUNITY HUB BUILDING SMITH AVENUE, GOWKTHRAPPLE

Dark brick by Ibstock or equal

REVISION NOTE -

PROPOSED ELEVATIONS/ROOF PLAN DATE -

BY -

SCALE -

20.03.08

1-100@ A1

REV -

JOB NO -

CHKD -

DRWG NO -

0801

(EL)01

TOP FLOOR, MERCAT BUILDING, 26 GALLOWGATE, GLASGOW, G1 5AB, U

TELEPHONE +44(0)141 552 3001 FAX +44(0)141 552 388 EMAIL INFO@COLLECTIVEARCHITECTURE.CO.U WEB WWW.COLLECTIVEARCHITECTURE.CO.U

Roof plan

a security controlled vehicular access to parking

new layby 4 spaces C shop entrance

pedestrian gate

small upstand to planting A

deliveries

Shop 128sqm

st.

ers print shw

Meeting 1 18sqm f

View from Smith Avenue towards main entrance

Int 2 8sqm

Staff wcs

office store

tea point Flexible workspace 67sqm

Male

st.

store Dis WC + baby change

notice boards/ fixed seating

sloped area

covered 'street' 130 sqm rear service/ entrance from car park

rooflight over

Plant Room 5.5sqm

tea point

Female

Int 1 8sqm

reception

pedestrian entrance

wc. Office 100sqm

admin 20sqm

Multi-purpose 65sqm

Staff WC

Servery 16sqm

existing timber fencing Cafe 55sqm

st. d Meeting 2 40sqm

e low level brick wall

25,000m m clear distance

from cables

View from open greenspace by new road

C turning area

sloped area

a a

low level timber fencing

rear parking area (22)spaces)

Landscaped area as proposed within Greenspace Report

high level timber fencing

hig fe

c line of overhea d cables

View from Smith Avenue to Southerly elevation

View towards external space and 'covered street'

30.09.08 RT

11.08.08 JB

26.07.08 JB

26.06.08 JB

02.06.08 JB

19.05.08 VH

18.04.08 JB -

DATE -

fig. 4 - 6 Greenspace and Green Network Study 2008

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

BY -

CHKD -

A -

REV -

Bondary wall and fence altered. Roof light removed. Street flooring spec. updated. Trees removed from parking area. Timber pergola removed/ Windows and doors updated to reflect elevations, external information added Vehicular security gate and delivery lay-by altered to meet Secured by design requirements doors and windows added and altered generally to match elevations Vehicular entrance altered further to Planning/Roads comments, mezzanine floor level added, Car Parking numbers increased from 10 to 22, bus stop 31.10.08 AS omitted, stairs added to office mezzanine, cafe and multi-purpose area relocated, outdoor landscaping reduced. Floor area reduced generally, car parking and service -entrance added to rear of building, ramp and stepped floor level omitted, storage and tea point added to offices and meeting rooms, flexible workspace added in place of meeting room REVISION NOTE BY DATE -

NOTES -

CLIENT -

DRAWING -

GARRION PEOPLE'S HOUSING CO-OPERATIVE

CHKD -

REV -

Roof light removed from offices. Office windows rationalised to suit office accomodation. Mezzanine level removed for cost saving. Walk in storage added. Shower added as per spec. Public toilets updated. Plant room added. Shop accomodation re-arranged. High level fencing updated at boundary. Shop/ Flexible workspace areas updated. WC added for staff servery. Indicative structural guidelines added. Admin & reception split with glazed screen. Windows reduced to cafe and admin. REVISION NOTE -

EXTERNAL WORKS KEY a. Tarmac b. Block paviours c. Turf d. Planting e. Marshalls Concrete Paving Slabs, Conservation smooth ground f Marshalls Concrete Paving Slabs, Conservation smooth ground Buff

PROJECT -

NEW COMMUNITY HUB BUILDING SMITH AVENUE, GOWKTHRAPPLE

EXISTING SITE PROPOSED SITE PLAN PLAN DATE -

BY -

SCALE -

20.03.08

1-200@ A1

JOB NO -

CHKD -

DRWG NO -

0801

(EX)01 (PL)02

fig. 7 + 8 Hub proposals

Page 4

REV -

H -

TOP FLOOR, MERCAT BUILDING, 26 GALLOWGATE, GLASGOW, G1 5 TELEPHONE +44(0)141 552 3001 FAX +44(0)141 55 EMAIL INFO@COLLECTIVEARCHITECTURE WEB WWW.COLLECTIVEARCHITECTURE

GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

development context

fig.9 abstract from Gowkthrapple Strategic Roads Report . showing proposals as current April 2009 Urban Design Futures

May 2009

Page 5

audit - directional signage

GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

3.00

audit directional signage There is an acute shortage of directional signage relating to Gowkthrapple.

Road Signage The advance local direction signs on the east and west legs of the Main Street / Castlehill Road junction in Wishaw include Gowkthrapple in their list of destinations together with a distance indicator of 1 mile and direction arrows to Castlehill Road. There are no directional signs to Gowkthrapple from either of the eastern approaches through Overtown. There are interpretive signs at each of the four existing cul de sac access points on Castlehill Road that incorporate the name ‘Gowkthrapple’ and include directional guidance to the streets that are accessed from each junction. Whilst the main road names on these signs are sufficiently sized to be visible to passing vehicles the ‘leading to ‘ road names that appear on some of the signs are smaller and difficult to read. There are two standard ‘Allershaw Road’ plate signs with directional arrows on either side of the lamp post on the opposite side of Castelhill Road / Allershaw Road junction and one standard ‘ Garrison Business Park’ directional sign approximately 50m to the west of the Castlehill Road/ Smith Avenue junction. There is no directional signage for Garrison Business Park for eastbound traffic.

Path Signage The only directional signage intended specifically for pedestrians is associated with the Clyde Walkway from where there are three signs to Gowkthrapple via the tracks and paths leading through the Clyde Valley. There are however no reciprocal signs to the Clyde Walkway from the Gowkthrapple area.

Recommendations •

There are no pedestrian directional signs from Gowkthrapple to any other surrounding facilities and/ or settlements and none from the surrounding settlements to Gowkthrapple

• •

additional vehicular directional signs to Gowkthrapple at key junctions on the surrounding road network, particularly from the east. additional vehicular directional signs to Garrison Business Park additional pedestrian and cyclist directional signs to surrounding facilities/ places of interest etc

figs. 10 - 16 Existing directional signage Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

audit - directional signage

fig. 17

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

Page 7

audit - street and placename signage

GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

street and placename signage There is an acute shortage of directional signage relating to Gowkthrapple.

Streetnaming There is a severe shortage of street name signs over much of the area at present, possibly as a result of some of these being either stolen or officially removed as part of the regeneration works. No street name signs whatsoever exist for Allershaw Place, Birkshaw Place and Birkshaw Brae and this in combination with a complex housing layout and a distinct lack of easy to read house/ block numbering must make orientation for those not familiar with the area - visitors and delivery vehicles - extremely difficult. The streetname signs which do exist in this part of Gowkthrapple are in poor condition and often inappropriately located, contributing significantly to the generally run down feel to the area. In stark contrast, there is almost an overprovision of street name signage in the Heathfield area some of which has been attractively integrated within the design of bespoke railings which characterise this neighbourhood. There is however also a proliferation of smaller wall and pole mounted signage providing more detailed information on house numbering which veers towards street clutter.

Placenaming There is no place name signage to indicate entry into Gowkthrapple. As a result it is relatively easy to drive along Castlehill Road without being aware of its existence. The only signs which do contain the Gowkthrapple name are the bespoke ‘cuckoo’ interpretation signs at the entry to each of the existing housing access culs de sac, at least two of which will be surplus to requirements once the new road layout is complete.

Recommendations There is no placename / entry signage for Garrion Business Park.

• •

There is some ad-hoc signage for facilities in the area - namely the snack bar and the Priory Stables to the south of Castlehill Road - some of which is in very poor condition.

• •

additional street name signage in all areas other than Heathfield more legible system of house/ flat numbering in all areas other than Heathfield. entry signage to Gowkthrapple and Garrison Business Park signage should have a unifying theme/ style

figs. 18 - 24 Existing street and place name signage Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

audit - street and placename signage

fig.25

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

Page 9

GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

audit - other signage

other signage There is a significant amount of other signage which results in largely unnecessary street clutter

DOT Highway Safety Much of this is provided in accordance with the statutory rules as defined in The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions Order 2002 ( + 2005 Amendment ) as statutorily required. There is what is considered to be an excessive number of advisory ‘Twenty’s Plenty’ signs which are of questionable benefit without the support of traffic calming design measures.

NLC Information There are what appears to be a large number of CCTV information signs which result in a significant amount of street clutter and arguably could be seen as stigmatising the area. The majority of these signs are lamppost mounted and are in reasonable condition.

Bus Stops All bus stops on the south side of Castlehill Road have standard shelters. The shelters do not contain any advertising or other bespoke features. The majority have been subject of vandalism but they remain in reasonable condition.

Miscellaneous There are a number of ‘No Ball Game’ signs in the Heathfield area. There are two timber waymarker signs with green and yellow markings on the tracks on the south side of Castlehill Road the significance of which have not been established.

Recommendations • •

keep number of non statutory information signs to a minimum develop opportunities for bus stop enhancement ( eg. time tables, seating repairs )

figs. 26 - 32 Existing other signage Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

audit - other signage

fig. 33

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

Page 11

GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

audit - interpretation + artworks

interpretation + artworks There is evidence of a range of art and interpretation projects which vary considerably in quality, relevance and suitability for the area.

Pillar Sculpture - entrance to Smith Avenue The pillars are simply and neatly designed in natural stone and are topped by bridge castings to echo the history of the area, providing a distinctive entrance feature to Smith Avenue. They were designed by environmental artist Jimmy Ritchie and were the product of extensive consultation with local schools and residents groups. The pillars are in good condition and have not been subject to any vandalism

Cuckoo Signage - entrances to Allershaw Road, Caplaw Place, Linghope Place and Smith Avenue Cast signs featuring a cuckoo symbol as part of a suit of interpretive signage that extends to Overton and Pather, providing a repeating theme along Castlehill Road. Whilst the cuckoo is of direct relevance to the Gowkthrapple ( a ‘Gowk’ being Scottish for a cuckoo ) the signs appear somewhat over elaborate in design and contain some directional information that is difficult to read. At least two of the signs will no longer be required once the road network in the area has changed. The signs are in good condition and have not been subject to any vandalism.

World Destination Sculpture - adjacent to Castlehill Community Park The sculpture is located at a key junction in the local path network. It consists of a series of stone balls representing compass points to various global desitnations which are identified by stainless steel arrows. The sculptor is not known. Relevance to the area is considered negligible. The sculpture has been subject to significant vandalism and elements are missing.

‘Grafitti’ Boards - Castlehill Community Garden

Recommendations

The boards are attractive and brightly coloured. They were produced by the pupils of Castlehill Primary School. The boards are in a poor state of repair but have not been subject to any vandalism.

• •

Railings There are a variety of rail designs which characterise different neighbourhoods in the area Urban Design Futures

May 2009

• •

development of pillar sculpture theme. greater emphasis on local relevance/ community engagement ( eg grafitti boards or similar by local schoolchildren ). removal of world destination sculpture. build on existing work + ideas.

figs 34 - 40 Existing artworks

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GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

audit - interpretation + artworks

fig. 41

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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GOWKTHRAPPLE SIGNAGE, INTERPRETATION + ARTS FRAMEWORK

framework proposals - general approach

4.00

framework proposals general approach The main aims of the signage interpretation and arts framework for Gowkthrapple are :• • • •

to aid orientation and improve the legibility of the area to strengthen the identity of the area to strengthen linkages with surrounding settlements + places of interest. to assist in making greenspace ‘fit for purpose’.

The general approach that has been adopted in order to achieve these aims has been underpinned by two key principles: to keep the framework as simple and as straightforward as possible and to develop it in a way that will not only be of relevance to the local community but will actively promote and encourage additional community involvement. With regard to keeping it simple we have aimed to only provide signs for which there is a specific need ( to aid orientation or strengthen connections with adjacent settlements/ facilities/ places of interest etc ) and to avoid the use of signage where it is not required. Signs which do not fulfil an important purpose are a major cause of street clutter and should be avoided. Residents and visitors should not have to rely exclusively on signage to be able to find their way around an area and it is considered that the proposed introduction of a more easily comprehensible street layout will be of considerable benefit in this respect. Keeping it simple also means that we have deliberately avoided the use of bespoke or over elaborate signage regarding the principal purpose of signs as being to discreetly provide information and not to make a strong artistic statement. We are proposing instead the use of customised proprietary singage systems that are economical, robust and easy to replace. As far as artwork is concerned keeping it simple means that that this element of our proposals is generally incorporated in the design of functional items entrance features, seating, walling etc rather than being provided as stand alone ‘works of art’.

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

With regard to community relevance we have, in the first instance, aimed to produce proposals that take account of the physical characteristics of the area - existing and proposed linkages with surrounding settlements, facilities and places of interest and the redevelopment proposals as contained in the Strategic Masterplan and Greenspace and Green Network Study. We are also proposing the development of a relevant ‘theme’ which is incorporated as a ‘branding’ feature in all elements of the framework to create a stronger sense of place / community identity. We would wish for the final choice of theme to be made in collaboration with the local community as outlined below but for the purposes of this report we have illustrated this approach within the framework proposals by use of ‘the cuckoo’ as our theme for the project. This strikes us as being appropriate for a variety of reasons. Although ‘Gowk’ has a number of derivations one of these is ‘cuckoo’ and ‘thrapple’ is throat - which suggests the call song of the cukoo. The cuckoo was regarded as the ‘Envoy of Spring’ which brought with it anticipation of the summer ahead full of warmth, growth and greenery - a symbol of regeneration/ new life which echoes the current redevelopment aspirations for Gowkthrapple. It is also a bird that has the ability to change and adapt to make the most of its situation. The cuckoo is already featured in the bespoke feature signage at the entry to the existing culs de sac entries into Gowkthrapple and, although we are proposing the removal of these signs, its adoption as a theme for the project would enable us to build on this existing idea.

Our approach with regard to community engagement is tied very closely to our views on interpretation. We consider that the role of any interpretation projects as part of regeneration work in Gowkthrapple should be to help strengthen community identity and to encourage community engagement with the place. This is very different from interpretation’s more conventional function as a way of explaining a heritage site to visitors, which is not considered to be of relevance in this context. To this end we are proposing a process driven approach to interpretation which will include managed community involvement in the detailed development and implementation of the signage, interpretation and arts framework. This will manifest itself in a number of ways including schools projects and competitions, community events and, possibly, the direct supervised involvement of schoolchildren, the umemployed and other local residents in construction of some of the framework components. Rather than providing a fixed set of proposals the framework proposes a more flexible kit of parts the components of which can be combined in a variety of different ways, developed to incorporate community produced elements and expanded or contracted in quantity to meet budgetary constraints. It is intended that the kit of parts will guide the development of signage and interpretation as Gowkthrapple evolves over the coming years and establish a quality standard that can be used as a basis for work with developers, planners and the local community.

Finally with regard to community relevance we have taken the view that the identity of Gowkthrapple as a whole should be paramount over the identities of each of the neighbourhoods that are proposed in the Strategic Masterplan. This was done after some consideration as we appreciate that there could be a number of benefits in focusing on the individual neighbourhood identities ( not least for the developers of each of these areas ). However we came to the strong conclusion that these benefits were significantly outweighed by the need to establish a unifying identity for the whole area. A weakening of community identity is already evident in Heathfield where the majority of the residents are said to regard themselves as being part of Overton rather than Gowkthrapple and we did not wish to see this trend extended. Page 14

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framework proposals - main elements

main elements The framework provides a coordinated kit of parts for signage, interpretation and artworks all of which are linked by a common theme, which for the purposes of illustration is ‘the cuckoo’. The main elements of this kit of parts are stone pillars, undulating stone walls, fruit trees and proprietary signage which has been customised to incorporate the chosen ‘branding’ theme. The design of the stone pillars is based on the existing stone pillar sculptures at the entrance to Smith Avenue. Just as with the existing pillars which incorporate a casting of Garrion Bridge, it is envisaged that the proposed pillars will be topped with a variety of different sculpted features. Again as with the existing pillars, it is intended that these features will be the subject of managed community involvement - ideally involving local school children - to further add to their relevance and distinctiveness. These feature elements could be added to the pillars at any time after the pillars had been constructed and could, even, be replaced, at say 5 yearly intervals, by new feature elements that were produced by subsequent intakes of school children. Wall construction could also form the basis of a skills training programme for local schoolchildren and the unemployed.

The design of directional signage for pedestrians and cyclist and horse riders will be governed by the Land Reform ( Scotland) Act 2003 and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code with no stipulation being made on the type of user that they are intended for. The design of these signs will also vary according to their location. In urban locations ( ie within Gowkthrapple ) a proprietary stainless steel signage system such as the Ollerton M3 by Marshalls is proposed, with customised finials, fingers and base surround incorporating the ‘cuckoo’ branding. In rural locations ( ie to the south of Castlehill Road ) proprietary timber signs is proposed, again with customised fingers and incorporating both ‘cuckoo’ branding and the Clyde Walkway logo as appropriate. The use of other non statutory standard information signage including cctv survelliance and Twenty’s Plenty signs should be kept to a minimum. Options and opportunities for use of the above kit of parts elements are shown over the following pages. It should be stressed however that these illustrations are indicative only and that the final combination and content of elements will evolve through an ongoing process of engagement with the local community.

The fruit trees are intended to soften the effect of the walling, whilst also referencing the fruit orchards that used to be a common feature in this part of the Clyde Valley. The pillars, together with their undulating walls and fruit trees will form the basis of entrance and node point features, seating and key connecting walls and provide a series of strong linking elements to brand and characterise throughout the area. The cuckoo motif could, in consultation with local community groups, also be used as the basis for the etched patterning which it is understood may be incorporated in the external wall panels of The Hub development. The design of statutory directional and warning signage for vehicles will be governed by The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions Order 2002 ( and subsequent 2005 Amendment ) Urban Design Futures

May 2009

fig. 42 Main Elements

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framework proposals - main elements

opportunities for community involvement through schools competitions for design of sculptural toppings ( which could be replaced at, say, 5 yearly intervals ) + skills training programme for wall construction.

fig. 43

kit of parts - main elements for possible use at main entry into Gowkthrapple from new roundabout on Castlehill Road. walling + pillars custom made by David Wilson Urban Design Futures

May 2009

main entry point pillars walls + trees indicative proposals Page 16

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framework proposals - main elements

possible incorporation of bespoke place name signage within stone walls and/ or pillars - cast metal or stone carved by David Wilson

fig. 44

kit of parts - main elements

main entry point pillars walls + trees indicative proposals Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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framework proposals - main elements

smaller scale use of core pillar + walling elements to mark entry into housing neighbourhoods. Garrion Business Park etc.

fig. 45

kit of parts - main elements

secondary entry points pillars, walls and trees indicative proposals Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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framework proposals - main elements

for possible use at key focal points such as The Hub or Community Garden. additional opportunities for community involvement in provision of seating text inserts

fig. 46

kit of parts - main elements

node points seating etc indicative proposals Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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framework proposals - main elements

possible use of cast branding logo to customise pedestrian guardrails + other items of street furniture

fig. 47

kit of parts - main elements

street furniture guardrails etc indicative proposals Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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framework proposals - main elements

fig. 48

kit of parts - main elements

signage bespoke elements indicative proposals Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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framework proposals - main elements

urban

Fingers:

Fully stove-enamelled, inc. graphics or powder coated with reflective white vinyl graphics

Size:

Panels - 1000mm x 175mm

Typface:

Trebruchet MS Regular

Colours:

destinations within Gowkthrapple: black / grey on white background destinations outwith Gowkthrapple: white on green background

rural

Structure:

Solid oak post and finger with routed or burnt Gowkthrapple brand.

Info panel:

Inset Burlington slate or similar, with routed or carved text with white painted infill

fig. 49

kit of parts - main elements

signage urban + rural sign types indicative proposals Urban Design Futures

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Column:

Satin stainless steel

Finial:

Stainless steel or cast metal

Fingers:

Fullly stove enamalled inc. graphics or powder coated with reflective white vinyl graphics

Size:

Pole - 2200mm to 1st panel Panels -1000mm x 175mm

framework proposals - main elements

fig. 50

kit of parts - main elements

signage urban directional indicative proposals Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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framework proposals - main elements

option a

option b

Structure:

Tubular brushed stainless steel frame 76mm diameter. 1200mm wide x 750mm high

Top panel:

Option b only - Brushed stainless steel with etched branding

Info panel:

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

Single or double-sided fully stoveenamelled, inc. graphics or powder coated with reflective white vinyl graphics

fig. 51

kit of parts - main elements

signage urban streetname indicative proposals Page 24

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framework proposals - main elements

fig.52

kit of parts - main elements

signage urban sign family indicative proposals Urban Design Futures

May 2009

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framework proposals - main elements

fig. 53

framework proposals plan ( indicative locations )

Urban Design Futures

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framework proposals - interpretation

interpretation Interpretation projects in Gowkthrapple should have the following broad aims: • • • •

to engage local residents in the regeneration programme; to encourage local residents to see the area as a good place to live; to strengthen their sense of belonging to the place; to help develop an identity for Gowkthrapple.

Media such as panels, leaflets and exhibitions will not be relevant here. Instead, interpretation will need to concentrate on events that encourage residents to take an interest in the place, meet each other, and help to shape proposed developments. Examples of projects in which the community might be involved, and that could take the area’s character and history as inspirations, include: •

•

A school-based project looking at the cuckoo as the basis of the village’s name, and as a symbol of spring and re-birth. The project should cross several curriculum areas, and could involve pupils in producing artwork to decorate the school, developing writing and images to be posted on a website, and devising music and performance events. Community-based events that give people an opportunity to meet each other and to explore the local network of paths. Small-scale events might take place at times such as Easter or Hallowe’en; depending on their success an annual event similar to a gala day could be developed. This might take the form of a picnic called ‘The Gowk’s Feast’. Arts projects that would explore the area’s heritage, and use it as an inspiration for decorations in the Hub community centre, or for short texts to be incorporated in plaques or carved lettering on seating and shelters.

Interpretation as process, not product The most important aspects of interpretation work in Gowkthrapple will be the process through which the community is involved, and the intangible benefits of community engagement and identity. Actual physical outputs are less important.

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

It is also vital that community involvement should evolve gradually, so that local residents feel genuinely engaged and empowered. For this to happen, any interpretation work should be linked to a community engagement plan developed in partnership with the Council’s Community Engagement Team. Work with the wider community is likely to be a relatively slow process that will need skilled facilitators, and that should begin without any preconceptions about its outcomes. Starting on wider community engagement by providing a list of things of interest about Gowkthrapple, and expecting people to immediately share an enthusiasm for them, is likely to be counterproductive. Instead, initial meetings might ask for people’s views on what is good about Gowkthrapple, and may well need to cope with negative responses before discussions can be developed into more positive territory. School-based projects should be planned as part of this programme, and should integrate with work in the wider community. There are already positive precedents for projects at Castlehill Primary School, where pupils developed murals inspired by their perspectives on Gowkthrapple. The Head Teacher is enthusiastic about future possibilities.

Potential work stages It is not possible to give definite project proposals or schedules for such a fluid process, but a tentative outline of community engagement work might include: 1. Initial open meeting, with specific invitations to existing community groups. This meeting might include: • Asking for opinions about what people value about Gowkthrapple. • Presenting the existing regeneration proposals, and explaining what will be happening. • Introducing opportunities for community input to aspects of the regeneration work.

fig 54 Kintra signets Arts projects that interpret the area’s heritage and are based on local consultation can provide inspiration for structures and motifs within regeneration works. These ‘signets’ provide badges for individual tenements in Govan. Project by artist Matt Baker.

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2. Community-based events that would: Introduce aspects of the area’s heritage that can contribute to its identity. Invite contributions to regeneration projects. This might include arts work to feed into designs for The Hub, perhaps for decorative panels in the central covered street; or motifs to be used on street furniture and signs. Work towards a shared vision for the area’s future. This should include practical aspects such as its visual identity, and aspirations for its characteristics as a place to live. 3. An annual project based in Castlehill Primary School for the next five years, beginning with a whole-school scheme based on the topic of the cuckoo as ‘The Envoy of Spring’, and continuing in future years with projects for just one or two year groups looking at a particular aspect of the area’s heritage.

framework proposals - interpretation

There are a number of stories through which these themes can be approached, and that might serve as a basis for schools projects and community arts schemes. However, the choice of which to work with will need to be a part of the community engagement process. The stories are: •

•

• 4. A programme of small-scale events, developed with local groups. The events should: • •

Provide activities at key times of year such as Easter, the summer holidays and Hallowe’en. Be themed around aspects of local heritage.

5. Build on smaller events to develop an annual community celebration. The ‘Gowk’s Feast’ picnic might be a basis for this.

Potential themes Interpretation work is normally based around a series of ‘themes’ – ideas with which the audience can engage, and that can be supported or illustrated through various stories or facts. For Gowkthrapple the following themes would be appropriate, but it is important that these are seen as broad ‘ways of thinking’, not as ideas that should be communicated from the outset of any project:

•

The cuckoo as the ‘Envoy of Spring’, bringing with it anticipation of summer, warmth, growth and greenery, and as a symbol of regeneration, renewal, and the ability to change. This is the concept that underpins the artwork proposals in this document. If community-based projects can share at least some of this inspiration, it would help to gain acceptance and understanding of the proposed installations. The history of the Pather Iron and Steel Works, and particularly the story of the local entrepreneurs who established it and who apparently called themselves ‘the twelve apostles’. How the Clyde valley was a desirable place to build large houses in the past, such as Cambusneathan House. The history of the village as the centre of Smiths alarm clock production throughout the 1950s and 60s. This history has some controversial elements, since the factory used radioactive paint that has been implicated in possible contamination issues. However, this should not preclude it as a part of the area’s history that modern residents should know of and think about. Indeed, it can offer powerful message about the effects of past industry on future generations, and about the possibility of renewal. fig. 55 Moonraking Community-based events might evolve into an elaborate annual celebration based on the area’s heritage, like the Moonraking Festival in Slaithwaite, Yorkshire.

1. This is a great place to live, and it’s easy to explore 2. Gowkthrapple and its neighbouring towns were built on vision, ingenuity and skill: the same factors can give it new life.

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cost estimates

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5.00

cost estimates Budget costs have been provided on a unit cost basis in keeping with the ‘kit of parts’ approach for the framework, which would enable the number of elements ultimately selected and their complexity to vary as required. All costs include for production, supply and installation of the units although they are liable to variation according to the number of units involved in any one phase of the works. The costs do not include for professional assistance in the various forms of community engagement that it is hoped will accompany and support the works. This would be charged at £425.00 per person per day.

to be added:cost estimates

Notes 1. 2.

Urban Design Futures

May 2009

All stonework costs are based on bespoke design + construction in locally sourced natural stone by David Wilson Urban signage costs based on the use of a proprietary signage system as per Marshalls Marine Grade 316L Stainless Steel Systems inclusive of stainless steel post, with bespoke finial and engraved surface trim plate, powder coated steel fingers with exterior quality vinyl lettering and graphics. The unit cost includes for manufacture and supply together with a notional installation cost of £200.00 per unit. All bespoke elements are based on designs by Glidden Design. Rural signage costs based on use of proprietary timber signage system as per FitzpatrickWoolmer, naturally finished oak finger pole signage with bespoke routed logo. The unit cost inclides for manufacture and supply together with a notional installation cost of £200.00 per unit. All bespoke elements are based on designs by Glidden Design. Fruit tree costs are based on the use of specimen Malus, Pyrus and Prunus.

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appendicies

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appendicies

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appendicies

Appendix 1

consultees Project Steering Group Lyndsay Noble North Lanarkshire Council James Kerr GCV Green Network Partnership Sue Harris Scottish Government Housing Investment Division

Consultees North Lanarkshire Council Kate Bryson Regeneration Services John Duffy Access Manager Leanne Pollock Community Engagement Officer Garrion Peoples Housing Cooperative John Mullholland Director Cathy Brien Deputy Director Castlehill Primary School Tina Milligan Headteacher Gowkthrapple Developing Projects Group Draft framework proposals were presented to and discussed with this group at a meeting held at Allershaw Tower on 7 April 2009. Other Julian Farrar

Urban Design Futures

Ironside Farrar

May 2009

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appendicies

Appendix 2

indicative total costs The total cost estimate is intended to provide an indication of the order of magnitude costs likely to be incurred in providing the signage, interpretation and arts proposals illustrated in the framework proposals drawing ( fig 53 ). It is based on what is considered to be the minimum level of provision necessary to achieve the framework objectives and, in almost all cases, would benefit from the inclusion of additional elements, should funds be available. Whilst all costs include for production, supply and installation they will be liable to variation according to the number of units involved in any one phase of the works. The costs do not include for professional fees other than the notional allowance that has been made for community engagement ( 8.1.e).

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