Graduating Planning Studio Portfolio 2016 by Jacob Westerman

Integrated Practice Studio Jacob Westerman 12010966

Analysis Newport Development Plan Design & Access Statement Planning policy Statement

Analysis

"Sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present

the ability of

without compromising

future generations

â&#x20AC;?

to meet their own needs [Brundtland Report 1987]

Welsh index of Multiple Deprivation 1 to 190 191 to 380 381 to 570 571 to 950 951 to 1,896

The Index of Multiple Deprivation is a UK government qualitative study of deprived areas The areas that are studied are as follows; • Income • Employment • Health deprivation and Disability • Education Skills and Training • Barriers to Housing and Services • Crime • Living Environment. The majority of the Newport urban area, falls with the bracket of 1-190 of the most deprived urban areas within wales.

The aim of the next pages of this document shall attempt to breakdown the causes of deprivation within Newport, suggest the impact of observations made, and offer potential actions of remediation. This will be attempted with the use of a SWOT analysis. What is a SWOT Analysis? This is a study undertaken by an organisation to identify its internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as its external opportunities and threats. This is a method that was first devised for the business world however when applied to strategic urban planning the tool can provided a useful general understanding of the given environments.

2012 estimate of Population 10,00 8,000 7,000 2,000

The population map divides Newport and the surrounding areas into grouping based on the local wards and their respective populations, in the quantifiable number ranges of 10,000> 8,000> 7,000> and 2,000>. By observing the population statistics one can ascertain that Newport has an estimated city population of 145,700, and an overall urban population of 306,844. While this information in isolation is relatively anecdotal when used in conjunction with the other additional statistics one can begin to understand the current conditions which the populous of Newport reside within and later develop an approach to dealing said conditions. The ethnicity of Newport is currently; • 89.9% White • 5.4% Asian • 1.7% Black • 1.1% Mixed White/Black • 0.5% Mixed White/Asian • 1.4% Other According to the population statistics of the 2011 Census. This information can be used to access social interaction and harmonisation when contrasted with other statistics.

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

The predominating ethnicity of Newport has been largely unaffected by immigration, which although this can be seen as both a negative and a positive, it does give the impression to the original inhabitants of Newport that their cultural heritage remains largely intact and un influenced by global pressure, which can be used as a method of generating and increased sense of community.

With a distinct lack of ethnic diversity within the established neighbourhood of Newport, there could be challenges felt by any ethnic minorities within Newport, e.g. social isolation, racial prejudices, etc. these feeling could be heightened because of the rarity of ethnic diversion within Newport the residents of Newport could be more inclined observe the ethnic populous disproportionally more than an otherwise typical resident.

The lack of ethnic diversity within the city population, indicates that Newport, has not been overwhelm by immigration, which indicates that Newport could look into expanded the local economy by sourcing new residents to the city.

A lack of ethnic diversity can lend itself to attracting extreme prejudices against any newcomers and a sense of fear towards ethnic diversity. Which can cause an increase in future developments within the community if Newport is to succeed in a global market economy.

Census 2011 % of Home Ownership 75+% 67% 60% 50% 35%

Home Ownership

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

If one were to observe the map on the far left in isolation one could be forgiven for interpreting the information provided as ‘there are more people owning homes in the surrounding countryside of Newport than within the urban metropolitan area, however such an observation would be in error.

A low level of Homeownership in the central urban areas, this is a strength as it indicates that the centre of Newport has not been gentrified by an influx of wealthy homeowners, which would force the economically disadvantaged out into the peripheries, and intern limiting their economic opportunities and access to centrally located amenities. In order to retain this strength every strategic planning decision should be driven towards bringing the economically challenged to the centre through a focus on densification of the central areas.

There’s a risk to the development of urban sprawl, due to a market led demand for home ownership in the outer rural areas by a wealthy section of the population, this must be confined, by a greenbelt, to ensure the urban area can remain compact with most facilities and amenities, within walking distance.

The low levels of home ownership in the centre and low levels of rental tenants in the suburbs creates the opportunity to increase the diversity of residential tenures with the respective areas of Newport which could intern encourage a more equal and sustainable distribution of wealth and employment throughout the city, however great care should and must be taken to ensure the areas don’t become gentrified, or deprived.

Gentrification, is a risk towards Newport should the levels of homeownership in the central areas is increased, although the act of gentrification contains some benefits to city as a place, the action of gentrification increases levels of social isolation, and can have an overall negative impact on the residents of Newport.

The population of the area which has the lowest home ownership rate of 35% also has an estimated population of 7,000, thus the number of people actually owning a home is 2,450. This is in contrast with the rural area with a 75% rate of home ownership with an estimated population of 2,000 this means the overall number of home ownership is 1,500.

With a majority affluent population located in the borderland areas, that by definition need to commute, there’s the chance that they could drive further afield to achieve their social, retail employment needs this needs to be counterbalanced by a strong busy attractive centre.

Deprivation of the city centre, on average renters tend to have a lower rate of disposable income than home owners, due to considerable fraction of their monthly income is immediately spent on their rent, this means that the local economy of the city centre can be reduced, by a lack of available customers/patrons for the local shops bars and cafés, due to high levels of renting occurring in the city centre.

% of Employment 66% 63% 62% 58% 48%

Employment

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

The diagram on the far left indicates a level of employment ranging from 48% to 63% this is in contrast with the national average according to the office of national statistic the current unemployment rate is 5.1% as of December 2015. This figure highlights a substantial issue within the Newport local economy.

A large number of the unemployed are skilled workers, who have gained unemployment due to the closure of factories. On the face of it that seems like a weakness, however, there is currently a skills shortage within the UK, with a market demand for a skilled labour force Newport can advertise themselves to a large scale employer, to relocate Newport.

There is an over reliance within Newport on a single employment sector, Newport needs to diversify its economy to ensure economic sustainability and vitality, if the city remains reliant on a single key employment sector otherwise the next time there is another financial crisis Newport will suffer the most.

The current economic situation within Newport lends itself perfectly towards economic diversification there are gaps within the employment sector which can be filled by new employers, but before that can happen there needs to be an anchor development, a substantial local development which fundamental refocuses the local economy, shifting away from a monocentric economy shifting towards polycentrism.

The statistic level of employment within Newport derives more question than answers, why? How? What? Why is the level so high? How has this anomaly occurred? What can be done to reverse this trend?

Large scale unemployment, also equals a large scale of unemployed individuals who are seeking work or an income, from this period of despair, there is the ability innovation and reinvention to occur.

A high level of unemployment can dilapidate the local moral of neighbourhoods and communities, overtime this can lead to tensions, e.g. crime & anti-social behaviour, and resentment towards those of whom who are employed. High levels of unemployment are often associated with high levels of poverty and deprivation, with higher levels of unemployment there is an equally higher level of people requiring benefits and social housing, which overtime can continue to rise incrementally without an external intervention.

Threats ` Because Newportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy is primarily monocentric there is an existential threat to the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economy in the sense that there are currently no substantive economic alternatives that will enable the economy to support itself from another economic crisis. This is a threat that should be resolved imperatively.

Census 2011 % of no Qualifications 40% 30% 25% 20% 10%

Qualifications

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

According to the UK census of 2011 the area of Newport with the highest population and unemployment currently houses a populous of 40% with no qualifications, which is for example 40% of an estimated 7,000 people or 2800 in one of the poorest performing areas of Newport.

Underqualified individuals are by default more likely to work within an unskilled sector, ranging from factory based manufacturing and distribution, café waiting to street cleaning and anything else that falls within the remits of unskilled labour, therefore Newport has the ability to accommodate a major development that focuses on the service sectors predominately. This is due to Newport’s labour resource rich environment.

The low qualification rates within the urban environment of Newport does restrict the current types of employers that would choose to locate within Newport and offer the potential for mass employment, e.g. factories, which can lead towards an over reliance on a single employment sector, which consequentially leads to a local economy that is exposed to the risks of market forces.

With high level of unemployed unqualified individuals in Newport there is the perfect opportunity for a mass employer to move into the local economy, especially if said mass employer could help to diversify the local economy’s employment sector.

Under qualified populations generally earn lower annual wages than those of a similar age group whom are qualified, thus a population with high demographic of under qualified individuals within it workforce often retain less disposable income than other demographics, this creates an overall threat to the elements of an economy which realises upon peoples disposable incomes, e.g. bars, café restaurants, general leisure facilitators.

Census 2011 % unemployed with children 10% 7% 5% 3% 1%

Unemployed with Children

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

According to the national office for statistics the UK national average for unemployed households with children is 15.9% of all households. Compared with Newport this is a relatively high figure. Because Newport has within its suburban quarters a rate of approximately 10% and within its more central areas a rate 0f roughly 3% of the overall total of households.

Newport is currently below the UK average for unemployed families, which means that there are going to be statistically more positive opportunities for the average child born in Newport.

Just because unemployed families in Newport doesn’t mean that every child in Newport will be better off, there is a lack of access to facilities for children growing up in Newport, the early years of a child’s growth are critical to develop according to the World Health Organization, poverty experienced at a young age can affect a child for their whole life. Impoverished children can lead to disruptive adults. “Children should all be able to achieve their optimal physical growth and psycho-emotional development” Web link: http://www.who.int/ maternal_child_adolescent/topics/child/ development/en/ [accessed 20-02-2016]

Newport can capitalise on this key element of success and advertise itself as a family friendly place to live, with a series of family orientated initiatives and schemes which could further decrease said statistic down further.

Currently Newport is out performing a national average for unemployed families, this may just be a statistical anomaly which could be reverted back to the national mean, especially when one takes into account the current rate of unemployment within Newport generally.

Census 2011 Newport General Health % of Bad Health 10% 8% 7% 5% 4%

General Health

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

The Health Deprivation measures the risk of premature death and the impairment of quality of life through poor physical or mental health. Health Deprivation of England equates to 13.5% which ca be compared to the Welsh figure of 5.8% according to the Office of National Statistics.

Despite the average health deprivation being higher within Newport, than the rest of Wales the average for health deprivation within England is considerably greater. Because the areas of health deprivation, is predominantly located in the same areas as the areas of low employment and low qualified adults, the problems associated with poor general health makes it possible to be treated with a single intervention.

The area where the majority of health deprivation is situated is within the vicinity of high unemployment, and low academic retention, it is a difficult subject area to identify which happened first health deprivation, unemployment and low skill levels, however it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t necessary which came first but if a suitable, practicable intervention is not made, the situation will only be perpetuated by its current state.

Poor general is by no means a positive however, it does allow for an increase in local health services, which can act as a mass employer, either for current local population directly, or in directly, if for example a new health centre was developed within Newport, this increases the local populationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s level of high income earners, with greater expendable income to be spent within the community, however this can only have limited levels of success, it is more important that a direct access to employment can be produced for Newport.

The current conditions related to general health in Newport appear to be linked with the current economic circumstances within Newport, which indicates, that should the current economic environment of Newport deteriorate further than there is a risk that the conditions of general health within Newport become worse than they currently are.

According to the welsh index of multiple deprivation, carried out by the welsh government, most of the pockets of welsh deprivation is located in the cities of south wales which includes Newport. This means that despite Wales having a lower average of health deprivation contrasted with England deprivation is more concentrated, thus creating a greater sense of health deprivation awareness within Wales than England.

Census 2011 Newport General Health % of Bad Health 10% 8% 7% 5% 4%

Census 2011 % of no Qualifications 40% 30% 25% 20% 10%

2012 estimate of Population 10,00 8,000 7,000 2,000

% of Employment 66% 63% 62% 58% 48%

Census 2011 % of Home Ownership 75+% 67% 60% 50% 35%

Census 2011 % unemployed with children 10% 7% 5% 3% 1%

Welsh index of Multiple Deprivation 1 to 190 191 to 380 381 to 570 571 to 950 951 to 1,896

Newport IMD SWOT Analysis Overview

Strengths

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

Newport is a city located in the south of Wales an area that is recognised as being the most deprived region in wales, said region being the south of wales, it is also the most urban region of Wales. Newport’s deprivation can be broken down to key aspects that fall under the index of multiple deprivation, Income, Employment, Health deprivation and Disability, Education Skills and Training, Barriers to Housing and Services, Crime, Living Environment, when each element is viewed in isolation they give a broad awareness of social issues however when they are look at in conjunction with one another, an awareness of the overall picture can be formed.

Low percentage of home ownership in the centre; this indicates that the residents of the centre are primarily renters, whom would generally have lower levels of disposable income, this is a strength as it ensure that they would be able to access all the benefits of centrally located amenities without being required to undertake a lengthy or relatively un affordable commute, it also concentrates their lower income brackets, which multiplies there relatively small expendable income in to a greater some total therefore making it more economically viable for a small shop to open.

High unemployment is an evident attribute within the metropolitan area of Newport, high unemployment can often be linked with other social issues, such as crime, drug & alcohol abuse, low levels of employment within a city indicates a city is going through a period of decline that will often shape the lives of future generations growing up in an environment of high unemployment.

Space for a major employer; with high levels of unemployment there is space for a major employer to enter Newport and inject a beneficial source of employment within Newport, said employer should be situated centrally within Newport in order to encourage the development of surrounding service incomes to Newport, for example, cafés for lunchbreaks, and end of work recreation, which would also provide an additional source of employment to the city.

A lack of skills within a workforce that is already suffering from high unemployment could result in the slow death of the Newport, with no main focus as to what the principle function of the city’s existence, no suitable candidates to encourage an employer to locate themselves within the city those who are capable would choose to move elsewhere to find work and the only people who would be willing to move into Newport would be potential home owner who are unable to afford a place of their own outside of Newport. The city would cease to function as city and begin to slowly start to become a suburb of other larger cities nearby. Newport currently sits in a state of purgatory where either in can redevelop itself around a key sector, or it’ll become a garden city, inhabited by commuters.

For example, the area closed to commercial road; contains a population of roughly 7,000 people, with 35% home ownership equal to 2450, 2,800 (40%) people without any qualifications, 490 (7%) people whom are unemployed with children, 700 (10%) of the population in bad general health, 3,360 (48%) in employment, when these statistics are observed in unison conclusions can be drawn, 40% of the populous of the ward containing commercial road do not hold a qualification, and 52% of the population of the ward is unemployed which indicates that the large percentage of the ward whom are struggling to find employment do not hold a qualification. A lack of qualification indicates to an employer the individual before them are not suitable candidates.

The majority of the population are in good general health; despite concentrations of poor general health within Newport, over 90% of Newportolians are in good general health despite the south of wales being the most deprived area of the whole of wales.

Lack of qualified people; there is a clear lack of qualified members of the labour force of Newport, whether they are trades people or members of the professional sector, a lack of qualifications can be a real challenge for many to enter employment, because a qualification indicates a basic skill set, this is an area that will need to be tackle in some form of the masterplan, either by increasing the number of job opportunities for low skilled work which does not require academic retention, or by encouraging retraining for entering a profession or trade, however an option that would be most likely to succeed would be one that accommodates both options.

Space for an educator; with a lack of qualified participants to the labour force of Newport, there is a requirement for either an increased awareness of adult education that is currently available within Newport, or an increased availability of trade based and foundation & access courses to be made available to the general public of Newport, this could be achieved through the development of a vocational skills education centre, to be built within the city of Newport.

Green & Blue Space Analysis Through studying the geographical locations of green and water spaces and the access that is available to the spaces, it can be observed that the majority of the green public spaces are located of the peripheries of Newport in the predominantly suburban regions. This is to be expected in an orthodox urban development, due to the greater levels of virgin land on the hinterlands. However with regards to the levels of access to water-spaces something unique to Newport occurs which is, the lack of development along the riverfront, with access to the river front being entirely closed off from public access by the Uskway, this is unique, because the majority of towns and cities that develop organically along a riverfront do so because of the historically advantages transportation values a rive holds, rivers were traditionally the highways of their age, which led to riverfront development, with major public buildings being located in close proximity to the riverfronts.

Green & Blue Space Proposal In order to increase the levels of public access to blue space within the centre of Newport, there should be an increase of development within the city centre, which should designed in a way to increase public perception of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s connection to the river Usk. This could be eventually create a similar connection to the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s water spaces which is currently experienced in the nearby cities of, Bristol & Cardiff. The main obstacle to riverfront development, is the Uskway, which currently prevents pedestrian links to the riverfront by presenting itself as a motor-centric space, as oppose to an anthropocentric development. This kind of situation has previously been visible in the city of Bristol where there was a post-war motorway that cut through the centre of the city, however since its removal, there has been nothing but positive developments.

Terrace Semi-Detached Detached Flats Apartment-Blocks Converted into Flats

Domestic Typology

Victorian Workers Accommodation

Post Ebenezer Howard

Contemporary Massed Produced

Converted into Flats

Newport essentially has three key periods of domestic typologies which are mainly visible (not the only typologies, but the most prevalent). These are late Victorian industrial workers accommodation, Post Ebenezer Howard Garden City suburbia, and late 20th early 21st century mass produced.

The most prevalent within the local vernacular, these houses were built on mass to house industrial workers within the city, they follow a pattern of development which is notably visible throughout the UK, i.e. they follow the design standards that were set out by the by-laws of their era.

These houses of most notably detached and semi-detached properties, which are normally located in isolation of the surrounding services, they are primarily commuter focused dwellings, with an emphasis on green space, they historically developed as a reaction to the urban squalor and pollution of industrialised Victorian England, however this type of low density development does lead to a paucity of community services where it occurs.

These types of developments typically follow one of two British vernacular styles, e.g. terraced accommodation, or suburbia, however they are normally smaller than their architectural references, and they are often standardised designs which appear without fail throughout the United Kingdom.

Within the central areas of Newport there are properties that have been converted into flats, these are primarily Victorian terraced houses that have been converted, most of these were built with the intention to remain primarily as single family occupancy dwellings and are not always suitable to be converted into flats. The presence of such dwelling indicates that there is a market demand for apartments that are centrally located, it also indicates that there is a lack of housing within Newport.

Other contemporary developments seen within Newport are the apartment blocks, which are seen with regularity and are popular in continental Europe they are currently less popular within the UK. They are often seen as being more sustainable city typologies than other accommodation types, provided they are located in close proximity of local services.

Rural Residents Cosmopolitians Ethnicity Central Multicurltural Metropolitans Urbanites Suburbanites Contrained City Dwellers Hard-Pressed Living

Types of City Dwellers The centre of Newport is primarily inhabited by a populous demographic which can often be referred to as Multicultural Metropolitans, however there is also a visible lack of cosmopolitans, a metropolitan is a term that is used to refer that a person who lives within an urban area, whereas a cosmopolitan is a person whom dwells within an urban area and is comfortable with multiple cultures, therefore the significance of a population of multicultural metropolitans and lack of cosmopolitans, is the presence of cultural isolation and ethnic tensions centrally within Newport, which needs to be resolved through an increased presence of cosmopolitans to reduce the social tensions which are currently present.

Suburban Services Low Density Retail & Wholesale Large Scale Education Retail Muticultural Urban High streets Metro Suburban Distribution Suburban Metro Infrastructure Public Servant/Hospitals Manufacturing and distrbution Rural with non-local wrokers Rural Traditional Countryside Mining and Quarring Facilities

Types of Services Centrally within Newport there is a clear lack of services which can be seen clearly on the map as two white/black spaces, these areas are, where the Uskway is currently located adjacent to the riverfront, and on the southern half of commercial road. The first blank space, can be clearly attributed to the Uskway, which is occupying an area which may be better suited to the provision of local services due to its central location, an ease of access. The second blank space is not attributed to a physical barrier, but more so to a social economic barrier, the north of commercial has many draws that pull in people, there is the train station, the university building, the hospital, the theatre, at the new shopping centre, whereas the southern side of Newport has the docks, and industrial buildings, which do not attract a lot of secondary economic activities locally. There needs to be an increase in local services adjacent to the riverfront, and there needs to be the development of an economic anchor located at the southern end of commercial road.

Car or Van By Walking

Mode of travel to work Apart from the area located on commercial road, the primary method of commuting to work is by car. This indicates four possibilities. A significant number of the population commutes to work in other cities There is currently poor public transport infrastructure, or a public perception of poor public transport. A lack of adequate Cycle provision There is a public perception/culture of driving being either the norm or superior. This can be tackled with the provision a well-placed visible public transport infrastructure development, which indicates a sense of permanence to the public transport system, with an integrated payment method, similar to either the oyster card in London which offers a contactless payment system as opposed to the purchase of tickets that is useable on all systems of public transport, or similar system that is commonplace in other European cities, such as the ATM Milano card, which requires a single monthly payment that covers the cost of all public transport within the city and surrounding regions.

Train or Metro Bus or Coach Bicycle Walking Taxi Motorbike or Other Work at Home

Primary Mode of Transport Excluding Cars This map will help to indicate the transport needs of those who do not have access to a car, it will also enable the development of an enlightened view as to how to reduce the reliance upon the car which is visible within Newport. Train or Metro This indicates that those who not own or have access to a car, are not likely to be commuting to another city for work. Bus or Coach There is a clear indication of a need for public transport links that connect the suburbs of Newport to the centre. Bicycle Currently there is a lack of individuals choosing to cycle to work, this could be promoted as a form as transport through the introduction a communal cycle share scheme, and an advertising campaign and an increase in public bicycle storage Walking The majority of the people who do not use a car choose to walk this indicates a few possibilities they either work locally, or they cannot afford the cost of commuting with public transport or there is a lack of access, either way the commute of those who do commute by foot could benefit greatly by the provision of an increase in an anthropocentric street system which prioritises pedestrians and cyclists.

Pedshed Analysis from Central Node It takes the average Human 30mins to walk 4km without obstruction, this diagram highlights what that means in practice, anyone arriving from Newport via the train station is within a 30 minute walk from any of the main points of interests, this area should receive active encouragement towards development, to utilise the strength of its geographical location. This diagram also serves to explain why the southern end of commercial road is not as prosperous as the Northern end, the southern end of commercial road is not within a comfortable walking distance, and would benefit greatly from a new transport link that could encourage greater economic movement in the area.

Analysis of Anthropocentrics This is a diagrammatic study into the effect of major roads on to the pedestrian spaces, developed areas that are not obstructed by major roads are highlighted in pink, once a anthropocentric space is divided by a frequently used road the space is partitioned, similar to the physical barrier experienced a the street level. This diagram helps to highlight the physical barrier which the Uskway creates between the river front and the city, of Newport.

Actual walking distances According to Barton.H, et al. Shaping Neighbourhoods, the average person is only willing to walk a distance of 800 metres to a light rail stop for their commute, and 8000 metres to a museum, these diagram demonstrate what this would mean in practice for the residents of Newport.

Economic & Social Activities The area of the map that is highlighted in red is the part of Newport where the most economic and social activity occurs, this therefore indicates that the area of Newport city which can be best identified as the ‘Centre’ or ‘Heart’ of Newport is the area along commercial road.

Genius Loci Commercial Road is the area of Newport which contains the heart of the city, understanding the socio & economic experience of commercial road, enables a clear understanding of the social and economic experience of Newport city. For the purposes of the study the following will be described as an experiential saunter starting from the train station southwards towards the end of commercial road. Arriving at Newport through the gates of the bespoke station, the city is presented as an open pedestrian expanse that guides a newcomer to road crossing that leads directly towards commercial road.

The traffic flow along the road continues to increase, the street slowly starts to become empty of people. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s now a break in the road, a piazza, that is void of people, instead fully occupied by road traffic, a cross roads of traffic and congestion cutting off the southern end of commercial road. Now the road has become entirely motor-centric, with only a small presence of paving for walkability, the shop frontage has now started to loose almost all activity.

Commercial road is experienced as an open welcoming anthropocentric centre of social activity that guides newcomers down a linear route to the rest of the city.

As you continue down the road you are greeted by the occasional regeneration project, which presents itself as a multi-coloured beacon to the world, telling all whom dwell in the vicinity and all whom visit this area is suffering deprivation.

Walking further down commercial road the street is still pedestrian focused with elements of foliage and places to sit and watch the road pass by.

Finally as one begins to reach the end of commercial road, the shop frontage begins to disappear entirely, only to be replaced with housing.

Further down commercial road, the pedestrianisation falls away and becomes motor-centric space, but still busy with social and economic activity.

At the end of commercial road youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re greeted with the entrance of an industrial estate.

Newport Development Plan

The Dynamics of Urban Renewal

The object of Policy should be to support ongoing gradual regeneration processes, spotting problems and taking action before the promblems become severe.

Intervention to Reduce Social Exclusion

Progressive Tranformation

(invasion and Succession)

Gradual Renewal

Dynamic Equilbrium

Loss of Dynamism

Dynamic Equilbrium

Modest Intervention Massive Physical Intervention

Critical Decline

Vacancy Repeated Cycle of Decline

[Shaping Neighbourhoods, 2nd Edition, H.Barton, et al.]

Change & Renewal

Causations of Urban Malaise

Change can be locally interpreted as a threat however neighbourhood evolution is inevitable, as local families and grow/ decline, migration as in the movement of people locally, alters the local balance, and as the physical fabric ages general maintenance is require, and often changes of use. There is a healthy process of physical renewal.

Social and economic pressures can slowly alter neighbourhoods in a physical manner that compromises a neighbourhood’s character.

Typical types of renewal includes; • Ongoing maintenance • Minor extensions/modifications • Modest use changes • Rehabilitation of dilapidated/redundant buildings • Redevelopment of individual or clusters of buildings • Infill Subject to safeguards (e.g. design standards, impact assessments) these types of gradual renewal should be welcomed and encouraged, a lack of such investments, would indicate and exacerbation of social exclusion and/or threaten aesthetic quality, likewise an excessive amount of urban renewal can have counterproductive impact on social exclusion.

•

• • •

• •

The pattern of buildings on their plots; can be compromised with in fill affecting the feel and character of the original streetscape. Loss of trees, green verges, allotments; by private or public owners in an attempt to reduce maintenance costs. Environmental erosion through the prevalence of through traffic and excessive car parking. Excessive alterations, replacement of cladding, or changes to a frontal elevation of properties, can be seen as either street vitality or a threat to the original quality of the streetscape. Decline or loss of local facilities. Declining level of maintenance to the streetscape.

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Severn Economic Region Average income: £17-£25K Total Pop: 1.2 Million 5 Universities Student Pop: 119,082

Newport Pop: 145,700 University city Student Pop: 24,000

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B A irm Po vera ing U p: g ha St niv 1 M e in m ud er il co en sity lio m t P c i n e: £ op ty 17 -£ :2 25 8, 66 K 4

Severn Estuary Economic Region This diagram explains how if the urban areas surrounding the Severn Estuary were to combine as a regional economic powerhouse, the area can excel as a national knowledge based economic behemoth with a student population equal to 10% of the populous contrasted with London at 3.5% and Birmingham 3%. Transport links within the region should be strengthened to enable a greater level of freedom of movement to encourage more collaboration between institutions. The expansion of academic institutions should be actively encouraged and supported provided they are centrally located to ensure the greatest amounts of economic gains within Newport.

££ £

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£ Suburban Sprawl

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£ Green Belt Cobined with Market led development (the London model)

£ £

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£ £ £ Green Belt & Building Height Restrictions Mixed-Use, Planned Development

Future Development Objectives Prevent Urban Sprawl and the further loss of social & economic equality within the city of Newport. Encourage overall densification of the city; that will be Socially Environmentally and Economically Sustainable. Establish a maximum building height of 5 floors, with a ground level dedicated to public usage (A1. A2. A3. A4. A5.). This can only be non-applicable if such a development is unsuitable to the function, e.g. cultural, religious, academic, and some industrial uses subject to S.106 agreement (D1. D2. Sui Generis, and in some exceptional cases other development classes subject to S.106 agreement). Clearly define a greenbelt that functions to focus future economic development within the existing anthroposphere of Newport. Developing a permanent public transport infrastructure which should reduce long term running cost, this could be in the form a tram network.

Future Streetscape Objectives Discouragement of car use through gentle persuasion techniques, e.g. one way systems, peripherally located parking infrastructure, etc. Shared space; when possible the street scape should be predominantly shared space, this would change the hierarchy of the street away from cars. Pedestrianisation, this is already present in some central areas, the aim is to although this pedestrianisatian to continue to a greater area around the centre. Public Transport should take dominance over private cars, the current infrastructure needs to be expanded to make travel without a car a viable alternative. Reduced speed limits, to an average speed of 20 miles an hour or less, in all built up areas. Improved cycle network currently the majority of Newportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s residents donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see cycling as a viable alternative to driving, this must be made apparent to the local population that cycling is an economical alternative. This can be achieved through increased cycle storage, and Dutch style protected cycle lanes and junctions. Bicycle share, is an international success storey of public infrastructure and can be seen in almost every major city around the world, anywhere ranging from, Izmit in Turkey, to London in the UK, and in almost all anthropospheres that bicycle share has occurred it has been a universal success, and thus it can and should be applied to Newport, Wales.

M4 A Roads B Roads Main Distributer Roads Rail Exhisting Train Station

Potential Site for New Train Station Proposed M4 Relief Road

Main Established Routes

M4 A Roads B Roads Main Distributer Roads Rail Exhisting Train Station

New Train Station Proposed M4 Relief Road New Public Transport System

Proposed Improved Routes

The River Usk Public access and use of the river should be supported, with the creation of public access stairs the river, to accommodate water based activities such as kayaking rowing canoeing. Riverfront contemplation spaces should be created to allow leisure uses adjacent to the riverfront, like walking, running, painting, and eating.

The Green Belt The green belt will be used to prevent any future outward development, any land that falls outside of the perimeter that is defined either by the M4 and the new M4 relief road, will be denied planning permission, when that boundary is not applicable, the decision will be based on whether the development falls outside of the existing urban boundary, if the site is located within an area that has not been previously been developed and is located on the suburbs then permission will be denied. The purpose of this tight restriction on outward development, is to increase densification and secure economic activity within Newport, this restriction will be reduced once there is a gross density of at least 50dph and an average net density of 60 or 70, throughout Newport.

Urban strategic development Running in conjunction with the green belt scheme to intensify the urban densification of Newport there will be an urban development strategy to link the East of the river Usk with the West bank, of the river, this will be achieved through the implementation of a new railway station, to serve as a light rail link to the centre and a commercial node, which can be used to establish a new secondary centre for the local residents. The Usk way should be replaced with a lesser graded road, consisting of two separate roads operating a one way system, the land that this free up should be allocated as a series of various tenures which will serve the greater needs of the local residents.

Inner-city Strategy; Reinforcement of Historic Patterns Newport Developed into a city primarily during the Victorian era, the city developed around a historic tram route which now functions as a main distributor road, and a linear shopping centre, housing densities range from approximately 50dph to 70dph near commercial road. The population is relatively stable but there is significant levels of deprivation towards the end of commercial road, however there is gradual progressive development towards the southern end of commercial road and along the river Usk signifying confidence in the economic future of the area. The quality of the built environment is unexciting but familiar, access to local facilities and city wide facilities is generally good. The current architectural urban tectonics still reflects the historic pattern of development and is the majority of which predates cars, thus it is well suited for pedestrian mobility, however the car now dominates the city. Commercial road acts as the main pedestrian/cycling/car route, it is unsurprisingly congested and polluted towards the southern end but not as bad as where the Uskway is located.

The Plan Reinforce the established pattern of development, concentrating higher intensity activities along the main spline aka Commercial Road, whilst working towards a reduction in car reliance, and greater continuity of greenspace. The numbered paragraphs relate to the map: 1. Township Centre • Reinforce the main public node (e.g. space surrounding the train station and castle) • Build on the success of the existing retail hotspot • Encourage/allow further intensification of centre activities • Achieve an improved pedestrian environment 2. Commercial Road • Extend pedestrian, bike and public transport priority measures. • Support innovation and diversity of shops and local facilities with a flexible approach to the balance of retail and housing use along the frontage responding to changes in demand • Allow redevelopment of all frontages where this increases plot ratios, encouraging a gradual change of character from two to three story or four storeys, with adaptable building types.

3. Inner accessibility zones • Defined as areas within 200m actual walking distance of the Commercial Road or 400m of the ‘centre’ (train station/castle) • Encourage the gradual intensification of the area, requiring three storeys minimum for any new development, and modest public space provision. • Flats and terraces predominating; aiming for a gross density of at least 50dph preferring an average density closer to 70dph • Vary uses (e.g. shops, bars, cafés, workshops, pocket parks and squares.) • Aim to extend the zone by removing barriers to pedestrian access. 4. Outer Accessible zone • Defined as the built up area between 200m-400m actual distance of a good bus route or 800m of the train station/castle • Varied housing types, but aiming for at least 30dph gross density and at least 40dph net density average, in some areas this implies gradual intensification. • High density housing not permitted. • Industrial estates (but not office/ business use) ideally form part of this zone.

5. Poor Accessibility Zone • Defined as built up areas more than 400m actual distance from a good bus route and over 800m form the train station. • No intensification should be permitted, unless and until a strategy for improved access is in place. • Backland and ‘infill’ plots should be managed as allotments, woodland or biodiversity areas. Any development which is allowed should be at low density. • Temporary low-intensity uses may be promoted pending public transport investment. 6. Green Space System • Includes all greenspaces including any ‘waste’ and linear zones of biodiversity/shelterbelt value. • Work to increase public access open space, where needed. In the outer accessible and poor access zones. • Increase the connectivity between greenspaces with wildlife/recreational corridors, linking though inner zones as well as the outer.

Expected outcomes Post 25 years if plan were to be adopted Newport will have experienced significant levels of regeneration centrally along the riverfront, and increase in local economic activity. The population is relatively stable the levels of deprivation towards the end of commercial road have fallen and there is an increase of the local employment levels, there is gradual progressive development towards the southern end of commercial road and along the river Usk signifying confidence in the economic future of the area. The quality of the built environment is unexciting but familiar, access to local facilities and city wide facilities is generally good. The current architectural urban tectonics still reflects the historic pattern of development and is the majority of which predates cars, thus it is well suited for pedestrian mobility, car us has fallen. There is now a new secondary centre located on the eastside of the riverbank.

Post 25 years if plan were to be adopted Reinforcement of the established pattern of development, has concentrated higher intensity activities along the main nodal points, no there is greater amount of work towards suburban integration and development, and public transport links have improved. The numbered paragraphs relate to the map: 1. Township Centre • Reinforce the main public node (e.g. space surrounding the train station and castle) • Build on the success of the existing retail hotspot • Encourage/allow further intensification of centre activities • Achieve an improved pedestrian environment 2. Commercial Road • Extend pedestrian, bike and public transport priority measures. • Support innovation and diversity of shops and local facilities with a flexible approach to the balance of retail and housing use along the frontage responding to changes in demand • Allow redevelopment of all frontages where this increases plot ratios, encouraging a gradual change of character from two to three story or four storeys, with adaptable building types.

3. Inner accessibility zones • Defined as areas within 200m actual walking distance of the Commercial Road or 400m of the ‘centre’ (train station/castle) and the ‘new station’ • Encourage the gradual intensification of the area, requiring three storeys minimum for any new development, and modest public space provision. • Flats and terraces predominating; aiming for a gross density of at least 50dph preferring an average density closer to 70dph • Vary uses (e.g. shops, bars, cafés, workshops, pocket parks and squares.) • Aim to extend the zone by removing barriers to pedestrian access. 4. Outer Accessible zone • Defined as the built up area between 200m-400m actual distance of a good bus route or 800m of the train station/castle • Varied housing types, but aiming for at least 30dph gross density and at least 40dph net density average, in some areas this implies gradual intensification. • High density housing not permitted. • Industrial estates (but not office/ business use) ideally form part of this zone.

Green Open Public Space.

Yellow Street level; A1. A2. A3. A4. A5. Upper levels: C1. C2. C3.

Blue A1. A2. A3. B1. B2. C1

Red A1. A2. A3. A4. A5. B1. B2. D1. D2

Preferred development types by classification along the river Usk.

Design & Access Statement

1: Building Use

Hydrotherapy centre Red Unit Green Unit Deck Circulation Vertical Circulation Waste Disposal Public Activity

The Development is a program of horizontal layers, the starting from ground level heading upwards, the ground floor, (minus the corner adjacent to what is colloquially known as the town bridge, which is reserved for the purpose of acting under the function of being a plant room for service for both a hydrotherapy centre and the accommodation units.) is the preserve of public amenities i.e. building use classifications of A1, A2, A3, A4.

The upper levels of the development (first floor, to fifth floor) are reserved as socially integrated student accommodation and elderly assisted living accommodation units. i.e. building use classifications C2, C3.

Located on the first floor which is at an equal height to the Newport Town Bridge, is a hydrotherapy centre, primarily aimed towards the treatment of the elderly residents, and the wider community, the centre focuses on the treatment of physical and age related conditions, through a holistic approach which aims to improve mental and physical wellbeing, building use classification D2.

Accommodation unit green

Student Accommodation Assisted Living

Upper Floor Plan

Lower floor Plan

Scale 1:100 Accommodation unit green

Accommodation unit red

Student Accommodation Assisted Living

Upper Floor Plan

Lower floor Plan

Accommodation unit red

Scale 1:100

2: Scale, Amount, Layout

Population at maximum capacity: 58 people in assisted care units, and 135 students. The accommodation element of the project is based on a modular system of construction where the student and assisted living units are considered as single blocks, under this system there are two types of ‘blocks’ the green units totalling of 15 of which contain 30 assisted living units and 15 student units, however the student units contains accommodation space for 3 students, in a maisonette layout, therefore in this ‘block type’ known as the ‘green units’ there will be a total space for 45 students, and 30 people in assisted accommodation. The second ‘block type’ the red units consisting of 14, of which contain 28 assisted living units and 28 student units, however the student units contains accommodation space for 3 students, in an apartment layout, therefore in this ‘block type’ known as the ‘green units’ there will be a total space for 90 students, and 28 people in assisted accommodation.

3: Access

Pedestrian Prioritised space Southbound Traffic Northbound Traffic

With the Uskwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s downgraded classification and its subsequent downsizing, in accordance with the Newport masterplan, which has freed this site to be allocated for development, it is proposed in this development to create a one-way system of traffic that complements the strategic development of the riverfront area. This new motor access & egress system will be accompanied by the creation of a shared space network, that will encourage the decelerating of speed of the motor vehicles and the increased present of pedestrian activity generally.

The accommodation units are divided into two unit types each with a distintive loayout; the green unit layout comprises of two single occupancy assisted living dwellings, and a three bed student masonete, the red unit type comprises of two single occupancy assisted living dwellings, and two, three bed student flats.

Each unit consits of a central communal entraceway, with a communal staircase, which serves both as a social node, and equally as a method of reducing the required deck access-ways

Once all the units have been stacked, they are equal in length to East West, rows of accomadation, and once the units are stacked North South, they can be made an equal length throught the addition of two more green units.

There are four routes of vertical circulation which lead towards the deck access of the accomodation units. the vertical access routes each consist of a lift and a stairway.

There are two levels of deck access, however the the lowerlevel is equal in height the to the Newport Town Bridge, which when access said from said bride gives the impression of ground level, the lower deck is not and addertive structure, but rather a 5m wide terrace, which fucntions equally as a segment of roofing to the public units beneath.

The upper of the layers of deck access, is effeciverly a continuos â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Julietâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; balcony that runs a ribbon around the upper levels, untill it reaches the roofscape of the health centre, where the deck access becomes a an open roof terrace overlooking the the river usk.

The waste disposal points are located next to the vertical circualtion points, these can be access on both levels of deck access and contain multiple shutes that lead to waste collection points on the ground level.

4: Landscaping

Silver birch is a striking, medium-sized deciduous tree native throughout the UK and Europe.

Bird cherry is a deciduous tree native to the UK and Europe.

Grass which contains native deciduous flowers

Scots pine is an evergreen conifer native to northern Europe, and is one of just three conifers native to the UK.

5: Apearance & Materials

The development will be cladded in the same local grey limestone as newport castle, in a structured rythmic pattern, this is to both reflect and contrast the historical context of the site.

Scale 1:150 30m

1:20

1:20 1:20

1:20

6: Sustainability, Structure & Services

FLOOR

WALL Walls

9.6m 9.6m 9.6m

234.5m2

28.8m

87m

2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m

CROSS LAMINATED TIMBER

500 KG / M3

351750 KG

INSULATION

100 KG / M3

32830 KG

SOUTH WALES GREY LIMESTONE CLADDING

2611 KG / M3

183683.85 KG

GLASS

9.97 KG / M3

867.39 KG

45m

Carbon Co2 kg per kg of Material

93.8m

x 2.5m

Cross Laminated Timber 0.46Co2 kg per kg Insulation 2.55Co2 kg per kg South Wales Grey Limestone 0.116Co2 kg per kg Glass 0.85Co2 kg per kg 234.5m2 Cost of Material in £ per KG Cross Laminated Timber Insulation South Wales Grey Limestone Glass

Windows 5m 5m 5m 5m

2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m

20m

1.8m 1m 1m 1m 1m

FLOOR AREA 9.6m x 17.8m =

170.88m2

53400 KG

2 = 341.76m2

30m +

34.8m + +

1.8m

x 2.5m

87m2

x x x x

405150kg 32830kg 183683.85kg 867.39kg

Totals

= 292125.01Co2 kg 1245.74Co2 kg per m2

x £240/m2 £13/m2 x £40/ton x x £350/m2 Totals

=186369Co2 kg =83716.5Co2 kg =21307.33Co2 kg =732.18Co2 kg

234.5m2 -= £56280 234.5m2 = £3048.5 202.48ton = £8099.2 87m2 = £30450 = £97877.2 £417.39 per m2

FLOOR

WALL

Walls

9.6m 9.6m 9.6m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 5m 5m 5m 5m

278.55m2

28.8m

135m

CROSS LAMINATED TIMBER

500 KG / M3

417825 KG

INSULATION

100 KG / M3

38997 KG

72864 KG

SOUTH WALES GREY LIMESTONE CLADDING

2611 KG / M3

218188.215 KG

GLASS

9.97 KG / M3

1345.95 KG

Carbon Co2 kg per kg of Material

Cross Laminated Timber 0.46Co2 kg per kg Insulation 2.55Co2 kg per kg South Wales Grey Limestone 0.116Co2 kg per kg Glass 0.85Co2 kg per kg

x x x x

490689kg 38997kg 218188.21kg 1345.95kg

Totals

= 328774.9975Co2 kg 1180.31Co2 kg per m2

Cost of Material in £ per KG

x £240/m2 £13/m2 x £40/ton x x £350/m2 Totals

Cross Laminated Timber Insulation South Wales Grey Limestone Glass +

75m

x 2.5m

123.8m

278.55m2

=225716.94Co2 kg =99442.35Co2 kg =2471.65Co2 kg =1144.0575Co2 kg

278.55m2 -= £66852 2 278.55m = £3621.15 240.51ton = £9620.4 135m2 = £47250 = £127343.55 £457.17per m2

66852

Windows

20m

2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 2.5m 1m 1m 1m 1m

50m +

54m

+ +

x 2.5m

135m2

CONCRETE FLOOR AREA 9.6m x 25.3m =

242.88m2

1969m

0.5m =894500m2

0.3m

=29535000m3

Concrete walls

180m

=900m2

0.3m

=270000m3

Columns

0.9m2

=1.8m

=6.8m3

270006.8m3

Core10 steel walls

196m

4.5m =882m2

0.05m

= 4410mm3

39.9m

0.05m

=5985m3

=119.7

10395m3 ELAVATED FLOOR 1400096.479m2 x

2370

=996108512685 KG

2 = 485.76m2 CORE10 STEEL

Beams

420298950.5m3

0.3m =

420028943.70m3

CONCRETE

0.159 kgCO2/kg

996108512685 kg

=158381253516915 kgCO2

CORE10 STEEL

1.77kgCO2/kg

81600750kg =144433327.5kgCO2

CONCRETE

£80/m3

420298950.5m3

CORE10 STEEL

£283.28 per ton

89949.43 ton = £25480874.53

= £5,253,736.88

10395m3

7850

=81600750 KG

180 Columns

0.03m

=0.09m2

=0.45m3

180

=81m3

54 Columns

0.05m

=0.25m2

=0.125m3

180

=67.5m3 135m

1981320000000m3 Concrete

0.159 kgCO2/kg

Concrete

836000m2 836000m2

x x

500m2 500m2

£80/m3

2370

=4695728400000000 KG

4695728400000000 kg

=746620815600000kgCO2

1981320000000m3

= £158505600000000

=418000000m3 =418000000m3 836000000m3 +

8360000135m3

2370

=1981320000000m3

Base Concrete 4695728400000000 KG 746620815600000 CO2 KG £158505600

Health Centre Concrete 996108512685 KG 158381253516915 CO2 KG £5,253,736.88

Totals 996190113435 KG 158381397950242.5 CO2 KG £30734611.41

Core 10 81600750 KG 144433327.50 CO2 KG £25480874.53

Totals 749220.16 KG 328775.0375 CO2 KG £127343.55

Totals 569131.24 KG 292125.01 CO2 KG £97877.7

South Wales Grey Limestone 218188.21 KG 2471.69 CO2KG £9620.40 Glass 1345.95 KG 1144.0575 CO2KG £47250

8536968.6 KG 4381875.15 CO2 KG £1468165.50

Insulation 38997 KG 99442.35 CO2 KG £3621.15

Glass 867.39 KG 732.18 CO2KG £30450

South Wales Grey Limestone 183683.85 KG 21307.33 CO2KG £8099.20

Insulation 32830 KG 83716.5 CO2 KG £3048.50

Cross Laminated Timber 490689 KG 225716.94 CO2 KG £66852

Cross Laminated Timber 351750 KG 186369 CO2 KG £56280 15 Units Equates to 45 dwellings 15 x single bed assisted living 30 x tripple bed student living

Large Accomodation Unit Equates to 4 dwellings 2x single bed assisted living 2x tripple bed student living

Small Accomodation Unit Equates to 3 dwellings 2x single bed assisted living 1x tripple bed student living

996,209,139,585.84 KG 905,002,222,534,968.2 CO2 KG £192,491,186.61

Collective Totals

10489082.24 KG 4602850.525 CO2 KG £1782809.70

14 Units Equates to 45 dwellings 28 x single bed assisted living 42 x tripple bed student living

Service Cavity Plant Room

The health centre, sits upon a floor dedicated to the function of bing a plant room, this enable the centre above the freedom to locate spaces by best location for use as oppose to an over emthasis on the location of services.

The main floor level is elevated by a metre, this is to ensure that there is an ability to rise and lower the floor heights of the health centre to allow for the poll requirements, this extra metere of also opperates as a service cavity for the healthcentre.

Planning policy Statement

Policy

Interpretation

Response

Tan12

2.1 The design of our villages, towns, cities and the urban and rural landscape is important in articulating our nation and our culture. Design is important to our quality of life, and the quality of Wales’ varied landscape and townscapes – helping to sustain a positive image for Wales.

This implies the Welsh authorities have a strong commitment and overall desire to ensure that each development that occurs within wales, has a strong cultural connection to wales, for the welsh government, architecture defines a place.

This has been responded to in this design project, through a tectonic study which culminated in the definition of the masterplan layout, and building scales. For this project a study was devised to understand the genius loci of Newport, this term being interpreted as a tectonic and materiality issue primarily.

Tan12

2.2 The Welsh Government is strongly committed to achieving the delivery of good design in the built and natural environment which is fit for purpose and delivers environmental sustainability, economic development and social inclusion, at every scale throughout Wales – from householder extensions to new mixed use communities.

This means that the welsh government is committed to developing healthy sustainable communities, which are economically, socially and environmentally sustainable.

This has implemented in this project through an holistic approach which focused on integrating all aspects of sustainability, economic; ground level amenities, shared space layout to encourage foot fall. Social; the integration of students and the elderly, to ensure a stronger more cohesive space, which has access to local amenities on the ground level. Environment, cross laminated timber was utilised in this project to reduced carbon production in the construction, of this development, the hydrotherapy centre has a plant room that shares it access energy production with the rest of the edifice.

Tan12

2.3 To deliver this, all decision makers across Wales need to understand both the importance of good design and the ways in which it can be achieved.

This means that across a broad range of professions there needs to be a common consensus as to what ‘good design’ is in order to ensure that a consistent range of fair decisions & judgments are made for planning applications therefore the welsh government would have to provide clear dogma/definition of what good design is, this can be accessed in the document Planning Policy Wales, subsequently the welsh government has had to produce a diagram for what ‘good design’ is, to insure for a common consensus in designers and decision makers.

In order to ensure that ‘good design’ was met for this project, the design was self-evaluated and peer critiqued, this review questioned and debated the project, in a way that ensured that all aspects of ‘good design’ was met.

The objectives of ‘good design’ according to Tan12

Policy

Interpretation

Response

Wales Spatial Plan

Priorities for the Region • A fully integrated high quality transport system is necessary for this to happen. Over the 20 year horizon of the Wales Spatial Plan, all the Area’s key settlements should be linked to Cardiff or Newport by suitable high capacity public transport

The main purpose of increase the physical connectivity between the two major cities of wales, is to increase economic and social activity, a subsidiary affect would be to reduce the region wide reliance on car use.

The response to this was on two levels the macro and the micro. The macro level is the strategic development plan for Newport which looks at pedestrianising the streetscapes of Newport through the process of gradual renewal limiting development away from areas which are not within walking distance of either a centre or public transport, and the resizing of the uskway. The micro response is the architectural one, where the architecture creates an anthropocentric shared-space streetscape.

Wales Spatial Plan

19.3 The following elements of a sustainable city region will be important measures of success:

The overriding message from this is to develop an urban environment that can inhabit both spatially and in diversity, that will ensure economic plurality/stability. The city should encourage walkability because is a universal mode of transport that is fully accessible to all. This will also aid in generating activity within the city making the city a place to be.

This has been met through the street level design code which requires all future developments (unless building use is not appropriate) centrally located within Newport has to have a ground floor of a use class of A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, and subsequently demonstrated.

• • • •

• •

A working city region that can adapt creatively to economic change and innovate to improve A learning city region that grows talent, provides lifelong opportunities and attracts talent from elsewhere A connected city region that aids accessibility for goods and people and encourages sustainable transport choices A living city region that provides a high quality natural and built environment, complemented by high quality green space, promoting healthy, strong communities and a strong civic culture. Achieving a networked environment region will be a key part of this A lively city region that provides a “buzz” in culture, tourism, shopping and leisure A low-carbon city region that reduces its resource use, energy and travel footprint and greenhouse gas emissions

Wales Spatial Plan

19.11 Newport’s regeneration will strengthen its strategic role as the economic gateway to Wales, and maximise the benefits of its strong connections with the Eastern Valleys. High value developments should be a dominant feature of Cardiff and Newport’s projected employment growth with quality of development befitting a regional capital area.

The overriding message that can be gathered from this is to encourage development within the city of Newport, development must occur within in a way that will widen the scale of Newport’s economy, which intern should be beneficial to the region as a collective.

To insure that all future development will be beneficial to Newport, clear design codes have been developed which make future developments centrally located to have ground level, of A1-A5 class of use, and limiting building height there has been a strict green belt implemented, to encourage urban infill and densification

Wales Spatial Plan

20.25 Measures to alleviate congestion around Newport, and investment to tackle bottlenecks on other parts of the M4 are essential. The priority for rail will be on ensuring that the needs of the region are reflected in the forward investment plans of Network Rail, as agreed with the Department for Transport and Welsh Assembly Government.

This indicates that traffic in and around Newport is having a detrimental effect on the economic activity of wales. It also brings to attention that rail is the preference for the future of servicing Wales’ transportation needs, indicating that highway developments should be reduced.

As a response the Uskway will be reclassified to a B-road and reduced in scale, and the site will be freed for development. There will also be the development of a new train station on east of the river Usk to create a new mode of transport for the resident toward the centre and other major urban areas.

Policy

Interpretation

Response

Planning Policy Wales

the relationship between all elements of the natural and built environment. To create sustainable development, design must go beyond aesthetics and include the social, environmental and economic aspects of the development, including its construction, operation and management, and its relationship to its surroundings.

This is the paragraph that is referenced in the document Technical Advice Notes 12, as the definition of ‘good design’ in accordance with the Welsh planning system. It provides clear advice to architectural designers that design goes beyond visible aesthetics and that street level bureaucrats should assess a building on its merits as a total design.

The response that was taken to this paragraph was to design a building through abstract conceptual thought processes which focused on the development of a building through diagrammatic spatial diagrams principled on concepts other than aesthetics that were later converted into the form of a building, thus insuring a holistically designed building liberated from the restrictive concerns of beauty until the organisation of space was solved.

Planning Policy Wales

Good design is also inclusive design. The principles of inclusive design are that it places people at the heart of the design process, acknowledges diversity and difference, offers choice where a single design solution cannot accommodate all users, provides for flexibility in use, and, provides buildings and environments that are convenient and enjoyable to use for everyone.

Subsequently what can be referred to as ‘good design’ is an example of poly-functional architecture that can demonstrate duality of place space, private and public, accommodating all of the edifice’s needs, whether they are the current functional requirements, or the eternal anthropic interactive needs of the public; convivial spaces, privacy from a panoptic space, an everlasting lust for feeling secure.

This project fits to these strict parameters of ‘good design’ by being a poly-functional structure that works on dualistic platforms of public, private, abode and recreation. The development is an anthrophere, a place where humans take priority of their ecosystem and motorised transport is made into a trespasser.

Policy

Interpretation

Response