Levenshulme Baths Journal [November 2010 - May 2012]
Bachelor of Architecture I Year 6 I msap: Sharing the City I Ian Burnett
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Introduction
It has been over eighteen months since I pinned six boards to a vacant shop along Stockport Road in Levenshulme. Ever since that one community event in 2010, I have been working intensively in the same southern ward of Manchester. In that time have met and worked with many people who, over numerous meetings and events, I have grown to know well. Everyone that I have met up to this point has taught me a little something about the place where they live, every piece of local knowledge and experience shared has had a resultant impact on my project work. I first discovered the baths when wandering around the streets of Levenshulme on my first visit. I unassumingly took a photograph, enlarged it to A1 and decided that I would let people scribble their thoughts across it. Little did I know that almost a year later I would be working with the building in far more detail. In retrospect, the process of designing a new swimming facility for Levenshulme has been a fluid one. My fifth year event introduced me to a local radio station, which introduced me to Lydia Meryll, who in turn introduced me to The Community Association. Special thanks must go to Lydia, who has been fundamental to this entire project as the Community Association meetings have formed the backbone of the 6th year work. These meetings have offered a platform from which I could present and try out my ideas to an engaging and wellinformed audience. In doing so, the experience has connected me to a whole array of people, all of whom possess different skills which have enhanced the project. This book touches on my fifth year work but mainly focussing on the sixth year project, documenting the people I have met and how they have influenced the design process of a new Levenshulme Baths.
NOVEMBER
15
2010
Monday
My work in Levenshulme began on the 18th November 2010, when I organised an event along Stockport Road in an attempt to engage with the local community.
16
Tuesday
2010
NOVEMBER
es)
ntacts n textil rking i o w r e n esig Jones (D
New Co Emily
Made:
Friday
19
Saturday
20
Sunday
21
rker le with Paul Ba ng peop i p l e h y locall (Works ssues) health i l a t n e m ay annaw e Claire G enshulm v e L h t r e no er of th (Memb roup) nity G Commu
Members of the public were asked to express what they would like to change in the ward whilst being triggered by large images of areas of local significance - positive or negative. The images on the boards ranged from Stockport Road itself, to The Arcadia Sports centre and Levenshulme Baths.
17
Wednesday
Levenshulme Baths was represented on one of the boards. It is important to note that this event took place before the proposed closure by the Council.
18
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: • Gained an better understanding of the topical issues in Levenshulme
5TH YEAR ENGAGING LEVENSHULME EVENT ‘LEVENSHULME - WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE?’
• Managed to meet some of the local people and gain some new contacts who are active within the area
- at Stockport Road, Levenshulme - with the people of Levenshulme
5TH YEAR
• Learnt about ALLFM - a local radio station which is located in Levenshulme near the train station
JANUARY 2011
17
2011
Monday
JANUARY Friday
21
JANUARY SALE - SHARING THE CITY EVENT
The responses to the event were largely
‘DISCUSSING COMMUNITY RADIO INSPIRED PROJECTS’
positive, and it really gave an insight
- at the Trafford Centre
into what we should be doing as
- with Manchester School of Architecture Projects
architects. It should be about breaking down barriers between the designer and the user.
18
Tuesday
19
Wednesday
Saturday
22
Sunday
23
The event allowed people to openly express what they
After hearing about the local radio station (ALLFM) at
thought of urban design in the communities in
the event held on Stockport Road, I visited on several
which they lived. People were keen to talk about their
occasions and looked to pursue a project that investigated
personal experiences with architecture and the affect
the power of community radio and how it could integrate
that it had on them and their day to day activities.
different groups of people in Levenshulme. Msap held an event in January where students could discuss their projects with the larger public.
20
Thursday
The event was held in a vacant shop in the Trafford
Key moments that influenced the project: • It really gave an insight into the way you can interact with the public and make architecture accessible
Centre. Once participants were encouraged into the shop by students on the door, this event was really successful. Aided by a wide range of people of different ages and
• Although not many people I spoke to were directly involved in radio, many expressed an interest in getting more
involved in this form of media as well as other community events
ethnic backgrounds it was possible to obtain some personal views on the places in which people lived and the opinions they had on designing their neighbourhoods.
5TH YEAR
• I was able to watch, listen and learn from the 6th years at the time and begin to think about projects that I might want to pursue in my final year
FEBRUARY
7
2 0 11
2011
FEBRUARY
Monday
Friday Following the event at the Trafford
11
Centre, there was a stir in the
PROTEST MARCH
community in Levenshulme whilst I was
- from Stockport Road
working with ALLFM. Manchester City
- to Levenshulme Baths
Council had proposed the closure of the
- by the Local people of Levenshulme
local swimming baths - one of the most used and treasured facilities in the ward.
8
Tuesday
Saturday
12
Sunday
13
On 9th February, following the announcement of the proposed closure, over 150 people gathered outside the baths in a spontaneous protest which received national media coverage.
Friends of Levenshulme Baths Blog Feed
9
Wednesday
Facebook Group
The baths are the only leisure facility of its kind in the area and has a large catchment of users from surrounding wards
PROTEST AGAINST THE CLOSURE OF THE BATHS - at the Levenshulme Baths
The council received 106 comments about the future of the baths. Of these, more than a fifth referred to the
- by the Local people of Levenshulme
health benefits of having the pools and gym facilities in the neighbourhood. Another 7 per cent pointed out that money had been spent only last year on upgrading some of the building, while 5 per cent noted the lack of other nearby facilities and 5 per cent said the baths were a key focus for family and children.
10
Thursday
A community email list, Facebook group and online petition were quickly organised. On the Friday of that
Key moments that influenced the project: • Although I was involved in working with ALLFM at this point it was hard to ignore the impact that this potential closure of a public amenity had in Levenshulme
week, a meeting – attended by over 200 people – was held to plan action to save the baths. A protest the following day took place, where over 500 people marched along the
• It showed what extents the local people of Levenshulme were prepared to go to preserve and maintain their communities and what was important to them
high street to the baths. • Revealed what a wide user group used and appreciated the local swimming baths
5TH YEAR (RESEARCH PRESENTED FROM 6TH YEAR)
2012
M A R C H 2 0 11
28
2011 MARCH
Monday
Friday
4
On 25th June, Levenshulme Swimming Pools will celebrate its 80th birthday Residents also used the party to celebrate the building’s future after a successful campaign to save it when it was threatened by council cuts.
1
Tuesday
1931 Following the public demonstrations, a scrutiny and
SCRUTINY AND GOVERNANCE MEETING
governance meeting took place on the 1st March, resulting in a
- at the Manchester Town Hall
decision made to save Levenshulme Baths by the City Council.
- by the Manchester City Council
This was met with a degree of surprise and a great deal of relief and happiness felt throughout the community. It gave
Newspaper documenting the potential closure and
confidence that community action can work even in the
saving of Levenshulme Baths
seemingly most difficult of economic situations.
2
Wednesday
Saturday 5 “The Baths are really special to us all, I swa m here as a child as did my Dad and my Grandad tau ght himself to swim here at the g rand age of 60!” Co uncillor James Henn
igan of Levenshulm
e Ward - Liberal De
“The party w as great – it g ot people talkin g about their area and how lucky we are to have these services.” Beth
mocrat Party
Sunday
6
Marshall, An ti-cuts camp years in exist aigner on th ance e Baths re
aching 80
3
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: • By succeeding in saving Levenshulme baths it proved how powerful a collective community can be
• Although the baths had been saved it was clear that, if they were to justify their being spared by The Council, they would need some renovation and upgrading
• The saving of the baths got me thinking about potential sixth year projects - The facility is clearly used and treasured by the local community who are willing to engage to ensure its future purpose and use
5TH YEAR (RESEARCH PRESENTED FROM 6TH YEAR)
Twitter mention
MARCH 2011
7
Monday
2011
MARCH Friday
11
Saturday
12
Despite the events involving Levenshulme Baths, I was committed to working with ALLFM. I wanted to feature on an ALL FM radio programme in order to further understand how radio broadcasting work first hand and how it interacts with its audience. I also thought it would be beneficial to promote the work that my peers and I were doing in Levenshulme and help generate some more interest in the projects we are pursuing.
8
Tuesday
cts Made: New Conta FM) ger of ALL a n a (M t Dave Mura l DJ)
asai (Loca
Dionne Gb
yll Lydia Mer munity shulme Com en ev L e th of (Secretary
Facebook mentions
)
Association
9
Wednesday
Sunday
13
Although it was difficult to obtain any direct response from the listening audience, I still feel that I gained some useful feedback. It was fantastic to discuss the work which msap were doing in Levenshulme with people who shared our approach to design such as Dionne and Lydia. It was also really exciting to talk about current issues in Levenshulme with people who clearly felt very strongly about making positive changes to the area.
10
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: • A better understanding of how community radio broadcasting works and the power of social media
ALLFM EVENT ‘DISCUSSING INCLUSIVE DESIGN AND URBAN DESIGN’ - at ALLFM Studios, Levenshulme
• I was able to understand my own project better and reinforce the views that I hold on architectural design with community engagement as a key emphasis
- with Dionne Gbasai and Lydia Meryll • Meeting Lydia Meryll - a useful contact who is very active within the community. Through her I discovered the Levenshulme Community Association and have attended the meetings every 3 months
5TH YEAR
AUGUST / SEPTEMBER
29
2011
Nowember 2010 Event
2011
SEPTEMBER
Monday
Friday
2
I kept in contact with Lydia Meryll ever since we
On the 4th June 2011, I presented to the Community Association
PREPARATION MEETING AT 11AM
appeared on the radio together. Through her, I have
Meeting held at the local library [below], which is located opposite
- at the POD Cafe, Levenshulme
been attending Levenshulme Community Associa-
Levesnhulme Baths. I presented six boards which were written and
- with Lydia Meryll
tion meetings since the spring. The varied group
drawn on by member of the public during an event held back in
includes around twenty five members from differ-
November 2010. I also revealed what participants had expressed
I met Lydia after the summer to prepare a presentation of
ent backgrounds, such as local politicians, plan-
about the area and the links I had found between age, gender,
my 5th year work to the Community Association
ners and local residents. Meetings are organised
ethnicity and social standing in the community.
every three months to discuss issues affecting the
30
ward.
Tuesday
Saturday
My personal position is slightly unique as I do not live
3
in Levenshulme. However, my involvement provides any of Levenshulme’s issues with a platform within
COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MEETING AT 2PM
Manchester city centre. I am also able to look at any
- at the Library, Levenshulme
problems objectively offering possible architectural
- with The Community Association
solutions. In return I have been able to pitch ideas and receive valuable feedback from residents which has
Lydia Meryll
greatly enriched my project work.
31
Wednesday
New
1
Davi
Sunday
Cont
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acts
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Thursday tram ( Malc
John Nick Jonat
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Hors
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Hun
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ocal
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ter (M
Rich
t wor
ards
king
ester
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Key moments that influenced the project:
Party resid
l resi
anch
cand
idate
ent)
)
• It was beneficial to discuss my findings with The Community Association and seek ways to improve the area together
dent
)
City
DP /
• It was a great experience to present to a group of people outside of the school and gave me the confidence to
Coun
Loca
cil)
l resi
dent
conduct similar presentations in the future
)
• It enabled me to express to the Community Association who I, and the studio unit, were and the stand point that we hold on architectural practice. From this I could forge relationships and contacts.
6TH YEAR
4
SEPTEMBER
12
2011
2011
S E P T E M B ER
Monday
Friday VISIT TO LOCAL ART GROUP AT 6PM
Minutes taken from The
- at the Bankley Mill Studios, Levenshulme
Community Association Meeting
- with Lydia Meryll Stacey and Coughlin (Local artist at Bankley Mill Studios)
on 3rd September
16
Whilst visiting Bankley Mill we were given a flyer by Stacey Coughlin. The flyer was for an afternoon tea event where the artists were talking about their work with the public - we thought it would be a good opportunity to talk to and include the artists in out community plans
13
Tuesday
Saturday
17
Sunday
18
ade: tacts M n o C New lin os) Studi Cough l l i y e c M a St ankley st at B i t r a l (Loca The information printed in the minutes had come directly off the boards in which the Levenshulme public had written on.
14
Wednesday
We at Manchester School of Architecture Projects (msap) had produced a book of our collective engagement work and had organised an exhibition to display the contents at the CUBE Gallery. The intention was to advertise the book whilst running a ‘Sharing the City’ workshop where we exchanged knowledge of the city with the public.
15
Some of Stacey’s work
Thursday
EXHIBITION SET-UP
Key moments that influenced the project: •
I was able to gain feedback from my presentation at The Levenshulme Community Association Meeting
•
Managed to discuss potential projects with Lydia Meryll and brainstorm ways of pursuing options
•
I met Stacey who expressed an interest to collaborate with The Community Association
•
Lydia invited me to join her in visiting a community driven scheme on 29th September
- at the Cube Gallery, Portland Street - with Manchester School of Architecture Projects
6TH YEAR
SEPTEMBER
26
2011
Monday
Although the involvement of the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust has enabled the realisation of the project, it was
2011
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER
redirected community emphasis from a scheme ran by local residents to a more corporate administration.
Friday
30
Saturday
1
Sunday
2
SHARING THE CITY WORKSHOP - at The CUBE Gallery, Portland Street - with Manchester School of Architecture Projects
27
28
Tuesday
Wednesday
I was invited to visit Stirley Farm along with her and a couple of
New Conta
cts Made:
New Conta
cts Made:
Roger Bro
adbent (D
le Brian Lavel anager) rammes M g ro P T W Y (West
her friends - all of whom were consciously active within the local communities where they lived. The ‘grow your own’ project, just outside Huddersfield, was the product of two years community
n al Rawlinso
V
nchester (Set up Ma
29
Thursday
yslexia Fou
ndation)
The downstairs exhibition space at the CUBE Gallery, on Manchester’s Portland Street, was reserved to present the content of the book. Thanks to those at the CUBE
cheme)
Compost S
Gallery, the studio unit were granted permission to claim ownership of the same space
engagement and seemed an appropriate place to start thinking about community participation in design once again.
during the weeks of the exhibition. This allowed the unit the opportunity to hold a
a Murphy
ember ent and a m m ot ll a y it mmun (Runs a co scheme) lder People O g n ei lu a ter V of Manches
Den
VISIT TO STIRLEY FARM 'GROW YOUR OWN' JUST OUTSIDE HUDDERSFIELD
‘Sharing the City’ workshop on the 30th September in which we shared and advanced abilities to communicate architectural knowledge with local people.
Key moments that influenced the project: •
- at Stirley Farm, Huddersfield
Gained an insight into existing community schemes, how they were created. For a community scheme to be a success the local people must be involved to the very a end
- with Lydia Meryll, Val Rawlinson and Dena Murphy The Yorkshire Wildlife Trust initially worked with Kirklees Council and local residents (via Newsome Ward
•
A great opportunity to network and develop contacts that could potentially advance design projects
•
It was a successful exercise in consultation and engaging with members of the public which was good practice for the
Community Forum) to develop plans to restore the farm and some of its surrounding land. After consulting the surrounding local communities, the idea was to get it up-and-running as a community farm and open it up to the public, offering a range of community-based, community-run facilities for the benefit of local residents.
6TH YEAR
rest of the year
OCTOBER
2011
2011
OCTOBER
3
Monday
Friday
7
4
Tuesday
Saturday
8
Sunday
9
6TH YEAR ENGAGING LEVENSHULME EVENT ‘FACES OF LEVENSHULME’ - at Stockport Road, Levenshulme - with the people of Levenshulme
After spending several months away during the summer break and Inspired by the msap event
cts Made: New Conta Hennigan t) Lawrence ity activis d commun n a rd lo d (Local lan
at the CUBE Gallery, I thought it
5
Wednesday
was time to get reacquainted with the people of Levenshulme once again. Armed with a pen and an
coming bout the up a e m ld to Laurence d every hich is hel w l, a v ti es eF e Levenshulm some of th at I put up th d te es g ug year. He s cussing et people dis g to s o' ot s to ph nd solution fi d n a es u e iss Levenshulm together. ade better m e b n a c how it
A3 sketchpad I set foot on Stockport Road with one question: If you could describe Levenshulme in one word, what would it be?
6
Thursday
The film aimed to gage people’s opinions on the area in a suc-
Key moments that influenced the project: •
It was a fun way of getting reacquainted with the people of Levenshulme after the summer break
•
After collecting the responses, I combined the opinions to create pairs of positive / negative haiku poems
•
I decided to return to Levenshulme with the poems and an edited version of the photographs to document
cinct way, whilst looking at patterns in cultural diversity and social status. The film was completely created by the thoughts and opinions of the local people; they therefore became the key obstruction that dictated the eventual outcome of the film.
6TH YEAR
their reaction to see if they agreed or disagreed with what people had said about the ward
OCTOBER
2011
2011
OCTOBER
10
Monday
Friday
14
11
Tuesday
Saturday
15
Sunday
16
6TH YEAR ENGAGING LEVENSHULME EVENT
I returned to Levenshulme with a film of the photographs and poems.
‘REACTION OF LEVENSHULME’
The film was made a confidential edit, to protect the privacy of those
- at Stockport Road, Levenshulme
who may wish to remain anonymous. I wanted to see if I could shift
- with the people of Levenshulme
people’s thoughts from concentrating on deep set negative impressions, and begin to encourage them to envisage what Levenshulme could be. I thought a good place to start would be to ask the question:
12
What is Levenshulme good at?
Wednesday
To accompany the film and poems, I took
a board to write on which asked people to express what they thought were ‘Levenshulme’s Assets?’ This generated some really open and positive discussion as participants began to imagine how we could all improve the area. Among the ideas were suggestions to green the A6, as well as reinvigorate already popular local facilities such as the Arcadia Centre and Levenshulme Baths.
13
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: •
New C Monic
ontact
a John
s Mad
son (L
e:
By taking the video back to people who had already
featured in it the weeke before, it was interesting to see
ocal B
how they reacted to people with a differing opinion
utcher
)
•
By returning to people I had already met, such as Monica gave me the chance to build relationships and open a dialogue which could hopefully be continued throughout the year
6TH YEAR
OCTOBER
17
2011
2011
Monday
OCTOBER Friday
LUNCH AT 1PM
21
START OF THE LEVENSHULME FESTIVAL 2011
- at Eighth Day Cafe, Oxford Road - with Lydia Meryll
18
Tuesday
Saturday
22
Sunday
23
I emailed Lydia a copy of the positve and negative poems so that she could take themwith her to a poetry group she was attending.
19
Wednesday I met Lydia at the Eighth Day Cafe on Oxford Road and showed her the findings from my two previous events in the ward. She asked if i might send her a copy of the poems so she could show others.
20
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: The haiku poems were created out of the words that I the public of Levenshulme had written
•
down for me in a previous event. I had
Getting people thinking about what Levenshulme's assets are and excited about what the area could be in
attempt to encourage future consultation
rearranged them into two positive and two negative poems, one of each looking at how
•
Lydia took the poems to the ‘Off the Wall’ poetry group to see their reaction and generate some inclusion
•
There appears to be a clear divide in opinion on the area - A new design must look to integrate these groups and a
‘Levenshulme is’ and the other ‘how Levenshulme has changed.’
programme must be designed that is agreeable with all user groups
6TH YEAR
NOVEMBER
14
2011
2011
Monday
NOVEMBER Friday
AFTERNOON TEA AT 2PM
18
- at Bankley Mills Studios, Levenshulme - with Lydia Meryll and Stacey Coughlin New Contacts Made:
15
16
Tuesday
responding to the flyer that Stacey gave me back in
Marnie Matthews
September, I spent the afternoon at Bankley Mills was a
(Local artist at Bankley Mill Studios)
great opportunity to meet and converse with local artists
James Roper
It was beginning to become more clear that the
in the Levenshulme area. Work was exhibited in the small
(Local artist at Bankley Mill Studios)
situation between the council and Levenshulme
exhibition space, however it soon became apparent that the
Baths was still controversial. Lydia sent an
tight layout means numbers entering the gallery are limited
email inviting me to a baths campaign group
and the access via a staircase denies inclusivity - speaking
who were meeting later in the week at
to some of the artists, they expressed interest in an gallery
The Bluebell Inn
space elsewhere in Levenshulme for larger events.
Wednesday
Saturday
19
Sunday
20
Exhibition Space at Bankley Mills Studios
17
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: • The baths campaign group taught me that Levenshulme Baths was a serious and topical project to pursue.
SWIM AT 12:30PM - at Levenshulme Baths
New Contacts Made: Beth Marshall
BATHS CAMPAIGN GROUP MEETING AT 2PM
(Local resident and
- at The Bluebell Inn
campaign group)
I emailed Jonathan Richards, an architect for BDP and current chair of The Community Association about the baths
head of the baths
•
Meeting local artists such as Stacey, Marnie and James means potential work with artists in the project - Making a link between Bankley Mills and Levenshulme Baths
- with Lydia Meryll, Beth marshall and The Baths Campaign group •
6TH YEAR
At the meeting it became apparent that the baths were not yet exempt from demolition. If they were to remain open then changes would have to be made to the existing building as it was in a state of disrepair.
Establishing a need for gallery / community art spaces in the Levenshulme Baths development could justify its survival
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER
28
2011
2011
Monday
First Floor Layout
TOUR OF LEVENSHULME BATHS AT 10AM
MEETING AT THE ANTIQUES VILLAGE AT 2PM
- at Levenshulme Baths
- at The Antiques Village, Levenshulme
- with Lois Piltz (Manager of Levenshulme Baths)
DECEMBER Friday
2
Saturday
3
Sunday
4
with Lydia Meryll MEETING TO DISCUSS FUTURE PLANS FOR THE BATHS AT 11AM - at the Library, Levenshulme - with Lydia Meryll and Beth Marshall Ground FloorLayout
29
CRITIQUE OF EXISTING BUILDING
Tuesday
I met Lydia at The Antiques Village, a building that formally the old Town Hall of Levenshulme. It has been converted into an antiques workshop and seemed a fitting place to meet to discuss taking on the Levenshulme Baths project.
30
New Conta
New C George
Jonathan Richards sent back a reply to my email
At The George my ‘F
Thursday
regene
Wood
s Mad
e:
(Local
Antiq
George
rating
venshu
aving
encour
lme fo
e durin
’ event
baths)
After having a tour of the building receiving a copy of existing plans from Lois, I set about doing a critique of the building. I discussed this with both Lydia and Beth and between us highlighted which areas of the baths can be saved and which areas need adapting to make a more
g
improved and inclusive facility
been a y
he idea
immin
nto
r man
aged t
the sw
saving the
e ran i
t befor
hulme
year. H
t of Le
nt)
llage w
ad me
Levens
all Beth Marsh involved in and heavily t en d si re l (Loca
Reside
ues Vi
who I h
in the
residen years,
ontact
aces of
earlier
31
cts Made: ths) shulme Ba er of Leven g a n a (M Lois Piltz
Wednesday
g bath
s.
Key moments that influenced the project:
of • Visiting the Antiques Village, yet another destination along Stockport Road, made me appreciate how special the Baths site is due to it’s location within a community which has grown around it over decades
•
Realising the potential of acting on contacts made such as Jonathan Richards in order to enrich the project
•
A critique of the baths highlighted key flaws and positives in the existing building - areas that could be saved and a key area in the washhouse that could potentially be removed to make place for a new build
6TH YEAR
DECEMBER
5
Monday
6
Tuesday
2011
2011
Jonathan and I looked through the existing plans and discussed my design ideas so far . We discussed different options for the baths, whether it be converting the existing or
7
Wednesday
DECEMBER
de: tacts Ma cian) New Con ocal Politi L / t en esid nigan (R ident)Friday James Hen ister / Res in M l a c d (Lo Les Irelan
9
Saturday
10
COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MEETING AT 2PM
The main focus of this Community Association
- at the Library, Levenshulme
Meeting from my personal position was to let
- with The Community Association
everyone know what I had been doing and generate some excitement. I was interested in
constructing a completely new building on
learning what ideas other people had, and what
the same of existing site. Leaving the meeting
site was appropriate. It was an opportunity to meet
I was undecided on what was the best option, so
more local people with the intention of creating a
intended to bring up the matter at the
sub-group that could meet more regularly.
upcoming Community Association meeting.
Sunday
11
DESIGN MEETING AT 5:30M
The minutes taken from the meeting
- at ACaffe Nero, Ducie Street
on the 11th outlining the importance
- with Jonathan Richards (BDP Architect)
of the baths as a cultural centre. Also there was a positive reaction the possibility for future public consultation regarding the future of the baths.
8
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: •
Discussing the design with Jonathan was a huge help as he had personal experience of the baths as well as being a fully qualified architect. We could discuss the project from a professional point of view which was incredibly useful
•
The reaction from the Community Association Meeting was fantastic. There was clear enthusiasm for retaining parts of the baths as well for ideas of more open community consultation with the public in future weeks/months
6TH YEAR
JANUARY
9
CONVERTING THE EXISTING BUILDING
2012
Monday
2012
JANUARY Friday
PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION STUDIO 3
13
After backing from the community association I decided to develop the existing building further. Inspired by the discussions with Jonathan Richards, I looked to develop a link between the existing a potential new-build. This An email from Beth inviting us all to a Manchester City Council
link would form the spine of the building in which all
meeting at the Town Hall later in the week. There has been rumours that The Council had backed ideas of a
the spaces are organised.
new swimming baths being developed in Levenshulme whether it be a new build or conserving the existing.
10
Tuesday
Saturday
14
Existing Ground Floor PLan
MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL MEETING - INDOOR LEISURE REVIEW - at the Manchester Town Hall
The spine is reflected throughout the floor levels creating
- with Manchester City Council, Beth Marshall, Malcalm Cowen, Lydia Meryll, David Motram
access to both pools.
The leisure facilities in south Manchester was the first item on the agenda at The Manchester City Council meeting. The meeting was witnessed by residents, of the wards in question, who had chosen to be there. Levenshulme Baths was pitted
11
Wednesday
against similar amenities in Chorlton and Withington, however only
Sunday
Levenshulme was represented by a member of the public - Malcolm Cowen.
15
The circulation route will begin in the enclosed cafe / atrium space, lead to a semi enclosed
New Con
courtyard within the new build. the route aims to
med
offer views into key spaces, such as the pools,
Aftab Ah
tacts Ma
(Labour
12
Party Co
de:
uncillor
for Leven
shulme)
eventually spilling out into Greenbanks PLaying fields.
Thursday
I met Aftab after the council meeting at the
Key moments that influenced the project: •
The meeting at the Town Hall meant that the Council were seriously considering on keeping a swimming facility in Levenshulme, whether it be a new build or investing in the existing building
town who where he offered his services as the councillor for the area. This is a key contact to make it gives the project a voice in the
•
Manchester City Council - however indicates
Malcolm, the speaker for the Levenshulme representatives presented the need to retain the existing building due to its social and historical importance and its key role as part of a community hub away from Stockport Road
how the baths can be exploited for political power. •
6TH YEAR
Focused the design brief - a conservation / new-build approach appeared the correct design choice
BUILDING DEVELOPMENT
JANUARY
23
2012
2012
JANUARY
Monday
27
Friday
Modelling of the Baths in three dimensions investigating the central atrium and adjacent circulation. Additional third floor, solving current
2F
Development of the plan and 3D model
roofing issues and drainage whilst supplying possible community facilities.
24
Tuesday
28
Saturday
Section of additional third floor and
1F
relationship to swimming pool below
25
Wednesday
29
Sunday
GF
Glulam / materiality study model
26
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: • A sub-group meeting was organised to meet the
Following the meeting at the Town Hall, Lydia looked into organising a sub-group to look at developing Levenshulme Swimming Baths in greater detail. There is the possibility that the ideas produced could be considered
Sketch sections and perspectives
following week
• The layout of the existing building had developed
as part of the levenshulme local plan and any pressure on The Council can
and the design emphasis had shifted to the new build
only be positive for any future funding for the facility.
element and the integration of a new, larger swimming pool whilst maintaining the central spine
6TH YEAR
JANUARY / FEBRUARY
30
Me
2012
2012
Monday
FEBRUARY Friday
3
With a sub-group created, a meeting was organise and held in the kitchen of Lydia Meryll’s house. We weighed up the options of a new-build baths on a different site but came to the conclusion that it would be detrimental to
Ruth Mckenner
the immediate area of the baths if they were to be removed, negatively affecting the other local amenities such as the library, school, local shops and public house . Beth Marshalll,
31
Tuesday
Saturday
Levenshulme Baths
4
Lydia Meryll Village Stores Princess Auto’s Mechanics
1
The Bluebell Inn ade: cts M a t n o New C ths) enner the ba k f c o r M e s Ruth and u ident s e R on (Gort
Wednesday
Sunday
5
Malcalm Cowen
2
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: Library Bowling Green
MEETING TO DISCUSS PLANS FOR THE BATHS AT 7PM
Chapel Street Primary School
•
The baths must be remain on the same site to preserve the unique community hub away from Stockport Road
•
In order for the site to be developed in Greenbanks Playing Fields , Princess Motors must be notified
•
There is a need for a community event at some point later in the year in order to address the wider public
- at Lydia’s House, Levenshulme - with Lydia Meryll, Beth Marshalll, Les Ireland, Malcalm Cowen and Ruth Mckenner
6TH YEAR
Greenbanks Playing Fields
FEBRUARY
6
2012
2012
FEBRUARY Friday
10
Saturday
13
The idea of a cafe can be brought outside and Sunday
14
Monday
CONNECTING GREEN
Seeing that that site alloted for the
SPACES IN LEVENSHULME
development of the baths has a frontage to this green space it is essential that the propsal addresses and encourages the use of the park
7
Tuesday The Greenbanks Residents
The Greenbank Residents
Association have also planned to plant
Association is a group of people
several new trees close to the boundary
organise themselves to discuss the
of the site which also is considered. The
park in which they all live close or
proposed running track and outdoor
adjacent to. They also publish a
fitness facilities are to be addressed
newsletter which is available monthly.
within the programme too.
8
Wednesday
Barlow Road
reed beds could be used to help the park with its drainage - creating an enjoyable yet practicale environment.
SWIM AT 9AM - at Levenshulme Baths
9
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project:
The new development of the baths can be used to
•
The new trees restrict the views out the park - openings in the new build must reflect this
•
Poor park drainage has been an issue for a while. The terrain naturally falls away towards the baths.potential for
create a stronger link between Barlow Road and Greenbanks Playing
the building landscaping to reslove the issue by the use of reed beds / ponds
Fields. This can come in the form of interior and exterior routes.
6TH YEAR
•
Increased involvement from The Greenbanks Residents Association in future consultation meetings
An email on the Friday from Malcolm in reaction to the City Council’s proposal of building a
MARCH
completely new swimming baths without looking at any options to retain any of the existing.
2012
5
Monday
6
Tuesday
2012
The Council
MARCH Friday
9
Looking at alternative sites
I was appearing on the agenda for the next Community
for the mechanics the
Association meeting taking place later in the week on the 10th
baths could displace
March. I had a short time slot in which I had to present how the existing building could be re-organised. However, to avoid an
Lydia’s personal reaction to Council’s lack of consultation with the local community. The idea of a
‘uproar’ we decided to hold some work back for the sub-group as
sub-group was created so that we could all meet more regularly to discuss the future plans for the baths.
“I wonder about the MEANING of ‘co nsultation’...”
it controversially involved the demolition of Princess Auto’s an option which the mechanics was yet to be consulted about.
7
Meryll, Levenshulme resident and
Wednesday
Lydia
campaigner, 09/03/12
“We can talk about this on Saturday and develop a strategy for consultation that actually means something instead of the councils usual approach!” Charlotte Smith, Levenshulme resident and campaigner, 09/03/12 8
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: I had arranged to meet up with Beth so that
•
The meeting with Beth helped focus what I was going to present at The Community Association Meeting. I decided
we could discuss what to include in the
that I would only present the work that I had produced on the existing building as the scheme was yet to be run
PRESENTATION PREPARATION MEETING AT 6PM
presentation. Beth had been particularly
past the local mechanics that might be affected.
- at The Inspire Centre
active in saving the baths in February 2011
- with Beth Marshalll
and fronted the baths campaign group
•
The email from malcom highlighted how passionate the people I was working with were about the baths. It also focused our approach, as we believed the baths should remain on the existing site and maintain as much of the existing building as possible
6TH YEAR
PRESENTATION SHEETS THAT I HANDED
MARCH
2012
2012
OUT THE MEETING
and ade: dent i s e al R Con (Loc n New o ght ent) Nau esid r e t) R t e l P iden oca s L e ( R e lott ocal Char s (L n o m ent) esid Com R n l h a o J (Loc tham a L Jo
Monday
M tacts
The presentation sheets that I handed out to the members of The Community Association. One page critiqued the current building and the site. Highlighting the importance that the baths remains on Barlow Road as there is a fear that
r) Chai
MARCH Friday
if one of the facilities that makes up the ‘community hub disappears then the rest will soon follow.
Tuesday
The second page illustrated changes that could be
Saturday
made to the existing building so that it can function more efficiently and new programmes
COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MEETING AT 2PM
can be introduced such as a cafe/atrium space.
- at the Library, Levenshulme
This page also suggested an internal aesthetic
- with The Community Association
10
as well asenvironmental strategies to explain to people that keeping the existing building may not
Development of a
mean high costs
Levenshulme Baths sub- group
Wednesday
Sunday
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: Photograph taken from
•
my seat at The
I once again had to present to The Community Assocation which consisted of around 25 people that week. with every presentation I have gained confidence and tried to communicate my ideas clearly
Community Association meeting prior to my
•
We formed a sub-group who were interested in meeting evert week to design a new swimming baths
•
I was able to make some very influential contacts who would go on to play considerable roles in key design
presentation
decisions and making the final exhibition happen
6TH YEAR
11
MARCH
12
2012
2012
Monday
Through talking to Jonathan and consulting my tutors at the
MARCH Friday
16
Saturday
17
Sunday
18
University, it became clear that the building needed to have more of an impact to the street. Therefore the angle of the pool would change to run parrallel with the road edge. This relationship was important as an active street frontage can create user interest in the building and encourages interaction. It also created a space between what were now two building wings which could become a outdoor, semi-enclosed courtyard space.
13
Tuesday Committed Sub-Group Members:
Jonathan and I looked at how the building
Ian Burnett
could be better organised to incorporate a cen-
Lydia Meryll
tral spine that connects the existing building
(Secretary of the Levenshulme Community Association)
to the new-build and park beyond. It was really
Malcalm Cowen (Local Resident)
useful to talk over ideas with someone who was
Peter Naughton (Local Resident and new Chair)
an architect and who was also a resident of
Charlotte Smith (Local Resident)
Levenshulme.
Beth Marshall (Local Resident)
14
Wednesday
Development of sauna spaces
Development of building section
DESIGN MEETING AT 5:30M - at Caffe Nero, Ducie Street - with Jonathan Richards (BDP Architect)
15
Thursday
6TH YEAR
Key moments that influenced the project:
Lydia Meryll
MARCH 2012
19
Monday
20
Tuesday
2012
Charlotte Smith
At the meeting hosted by
MARCH Friday
23
Saturday
24
Sunday
25
Malcolm, the sub-group was joined by members of The Greenbanks Residents Association. Therefore the main topic of conversation was the baths and its relationship to the playing fields beyond.
21
Some of the materiality Precedent that I took to
Wednesday
the meeting
It became clear that it was vitally important that the baths both related to the park but also a much larger greening masterplan which included the school and green paths to the south.
22
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: •
MEETING TO DISCUSS DESIGN IDEAS FOR THE BATH AT 2PM
It is very important that the swimming baths integrate into the existing green spaces in the immediate area of Levenshulmeas part of an overall masterplan
- at Malcolm’s House, Levenshulme - with Malcalm Cowen, Lydia Meryll, Charlotte Smith, Peter Naughton
•
External cafe needed as well as internal - make use of Greenbanks PLaying Fields
•
New trees are to be planted as part of Greenabnks Development - the materials of the new building must blend i
and Greenbanks Playing Fields Representatives
into the new wooded surroundings.
6TH YEAR
David Adjaye’s ‘Dirty House’
MARCH 2012
26
2012
Monday
MARCH / APRIL Friday
30
It’s exciting for msap to know that the people of Levenshulme are willing to engage with us for many years to come!
27
Tuesday
Saturday
31
Sunday
1
I met Peter near my flat in the centre of Manchester to discuss the project
28
Wednesday
further. I showed him more of the design that I had been working on and I
Today the trees were planted in
asked his opinions on materials. I showed him possible solutions for the roof
Greenbanks Playing Fields -
above the existing building - a feature which is integral to the entire design.
generating more interest in the
He picked David Adjaye’s ‘Dirty House’ as the most appropriate option as it
back, something the design of
appeared to float above the existing building as if it was not even touching.
the new baths wishes to add to
We both felt that this option maintained the integrity of the existing structure whilst making a statement of intent that Levenshulme was mov-
ing forward into a new era. “We n eed a warm some, welc fun so oming rt of b , com u i l d i e-in-h Thursday n 29 g!” ere-
Peter
Naug
hton,
Chair
MEETING WITH THE CHAIR OF THE COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION - at The Britain’s Protection Pub, Manchester City Centre - with Peter Naughton
of the
Source: http://lovelevenshulme.blogspot.co.uk
Comm
and-h ave-
unity
Assoc
iation
, 29/0
3/12
Key moments that influenced the project: •
The new building must compliment the existing and yet still make a statement of intent for Levenshulme
•
The facade should be welcoming and interactive and yet not date easily with time
•
The hype around the Greenbanks Playing Fields and new trees / equipment there is a small step towards ensuring the park is better used. The swimming baths scheme should try to integrate with these changes that are already taking place in the area
6TH YEAR
APRIL 2012
2012
APRIL
2
Monday
Friday
6
3
Tuesday
Saturday
7
4
Wednesday
Sunday
8
Lydia gave me the details of Lorenza Casani, who is an architect, a tutor at Sheffield University as well as a resident of Levenshulme. I arranged to meet up with Lorenza to discuss my project as well as consultation techniques that could be explored in the event planned to be held in May. New
5
Thursday
Loren
Cont
acts
(Arc
za C
hitec
asan
t, Tu
Mad
tor, L
e:
ocal
Resi
Key moments that influenced the project: dent
)
• Lorenza was a brilliant person to get in contact with at this stage of the design as she once worked for URBED who specialise in community engaging architectural practice and she showed real enthusiasm for the project
• Organising a meeting Lorenza gave me an exact deadline to finalise the work I was doing, which was useful as the BRACC deadline was fast approaching
•
6TH YEAR
I had completed organising the plan so it interacting with Greenbanks Playing Fields and on the pools structure
APRIL 2012
16
2012
Monday
APRIL
Friday
20
Saturday
21
COMMUNITY CONSULTATION EVENT MEETING AT 6PM - at the Inspire Cente, Levenshulme - with Peter Naughton and Charlotte Smith and Malcalm Cowen
17
Tuesday
Poster for the event designed by Jamie Summers
18
Wednesday
Sunday
22
At the Friday meeting we managed to
book the Inspire Centre for the Exhibition. We also discussed how we would promote the event through posters and newspaper articles. The sub-group were keen to ensure that the local schools were involved as much as possible.
19
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project: I printed off some basic renders of the model I was building on the computer at
•
We managed to book the Inspire Centre for the 19th May. We could now focus on publicising and getting
everything ready for that date
home and brought them to the Friday meeting. At the meeting I supplied colouring pencils and pens so that everyone
6TH YEAR
•
I was able to clarify, with the assistance of the sub-group the landscaping around the building. The suggestions
could draw how they imagined the
were planted trees, reed ponds with surrounding seating and a mixture of surfaces so cyclists could use the routes
landscaping should work.
too
Work produced for BRACC
APRIL 2012
23
2012
Monday
APRIL
Friday
27
Saturday
28
I got to meet with Lorenza at the CUBE Gallery - the DESIGN MEETING AT 4:30PM
same venue that msap held their exhibition back in
- at the CUBE Gallery, Portland Street
September. It was the first time we met so I showed her
- with Lorenza Casani
a quick presentation of how I had got to the stage I was currently at.
24
Tuesday
Lorenza
Lorenza specialised in community
Lorenza is a qualified architect and also
consultation and inclusive design
tutors at Sheffield University. As a resident
having worked for URBED. She was
of Levenshulme she understood the baths
also interested in environmental
controversy
25
strategies and helped me configure the CHP system that that was
29
going to provide power, heat and Sunday
Wednesday
coolth within the building.
I had the work that I was preparring for the BRACC submission. We went through my environmental strategies so that I could make changes if needed.
26
Thursday
6TH YEAR
BRACC SUBMISSION
Key moments that influenced the project:
APRIL / MAY 2012
30
Monday
2012 MAY
I emailed Stacey, one of the artists at Bankley Mills studiois, for some artwork to render into my internal visuals...
- at the Inspire Cente, Levenshulme
meeting with Lorenza
- with Malcalm Cowen, Beth Marshall and Peter Naughton
Tuesday
2
Wednesday
4
Saturday
5
Sunday
6
MEETING TO DISCUSS THE DESIGN AND UPCOMING EVENT DETAILS AT 6PM
Email organsing another
1
Friday
COMMUNITY CONSULATION MEETING - at the Caffe Nero, Ducie Street - with Lorenza Casani Lorenza and I went over different consultation techniques and the need to create models and drawings that the general public can relate to.
3
Thursday ...Stacey replied with a couple of pieces which
Key moments that influenced the project: •
could be used in the visuals - ensuring the scheme
The meeting with Lorenza was really insightful into not only designing with the user in mind but presenting you worK in a certain way so that it inspires and captures imagination as it is is easy to follow, read and visualise
is community driven to the smallest detail! •
After the discusions with Lorenza it was put into practice at the meeting at the Inspire Centre which proved a great opportunity to receive feedback on some of the visuals I was producing - it was vital to receive feedback on how they read to someone who was viewing them for the first time. We discussed how the event would take place
6TH YEAR
MAY 2012
7
Gallery Space
PORTFOLIO WORK
Monday
2012 PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION STUDIO 4
MAY
Friday
11
Saturday
12
Sunday
13
1:50 Detail Section
8
Tuesday
Interior / Exterior Visuals
9
Wednesday
After BRACC the design was now in its finals stages and all that was left to do was to produce the final visuals. These ranged from technical drawing to sections and internal and external perspectives. I attempted to stick to a similar style to the few I showed the sub-group. Beth in particular thought it was important that they kept the viewer guessing so to trigger their own imagination. Greenbanks Approach
10
Thursday
Key moments that influenced the project:
Lydia got back in touch after returning from holiday. I informed her of what she had missed while she was away. I asked her if she would mind writing some words of support which she duely abliged. The letters of support can be found at the
All final drawings can be found in the large formatted
end of the book.
document that accompanies this book.
6TH YEAR
MAY 2012
2012
M AY
14
Monday
Friday
18
15
Tuesday
Saturday
19
FINAL MEETING TO DISCUSS UPCOMING EVENT DETAILS AT 6PM
LEVENSHULME BATHS COMMUNITY EVENT OPENING 2-5PM
- at the Inspire Cente, Levenshulme
‘LEVENSHULME BATHS - HAVE YOUR SAY’
- with Lydia Meryll Malcalm Cowen, Charlotte Smith, Beth Marshall and Peter Naughton
- at the Inspire Cente, Levenshulme with Lydia Meryll, Malcalm Cowen, Beth Marshall, Peter Naughton and The people of Levebshulme
16
Wednesday
17
Thursday
6TH YEAR
Sunday
20
Key moments that influenced the project:
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Conclusion
To conclude, I have found this entire process to be incredibly rewarding. It has been an experience of challenges and firsts, which I have had to overcome, but the skills that I have learnt will no doubt be of use as I leave the school and move into the architectural profession. The project would not have been possible without the collaboration and engagement of the local people of Levenshulme. Their input has been fundamental to the design process and I have enjoyed working alongside some fantastic people from all walks of life. I have tried to conduct myself in a professional way throughout the project as a student of the Manchester school of Architecture and an individual. I have offered my architectural services and consulted others in an arena where everyone’s input was equally respected and heard. Through the accumulation of my studio, technological and professional studies work, I feel that I am leaving the Bachelor of Architecture programme more equipped to enter the world of professional practice. I truly believe that I have learnt a varied array of skills over the last two years. I have improved as a designer, through my visual presentation and knowledge of construction, as well as in the field, where I have become far more astute in networking and presenting to people outside of the profession. I look forward to the challenges that the profession will bring in the upcoming future.
CHART OF AFFECTS
INCLUSION DIAGRAM Key 1
18/11/10
Levenshulme Resident Emily Jones
Ejjones4@gmail.com
Politician / Councillor
Paul Barker backstreetbarker@hotmail.com
Architect
Claire Gannaway
Levenshulme Baths Employee
10/03/11
Dave Murat dave@allfm.org
Local Artist
Dionne Gbasai ecokima@yahoo.co.uk
ALLFM Employee
claregannaway@googlemail.com
Lydia Meryll lydia@cooptel.net 03/09/11
David Motram
Val Rawlinson
Lorenza Casani
Dena Murphy
Marnie Matthews
Other
info@davidmottram.co.uk
James Roper
Malcalm Cowen mc@cowensw.co.uk John Horsfield 01612 259 785 Jonathan Richards
Jonathan Richards
Ruth Mckenner
Nick Hunter n.hunter@manchester.gov.uk
Stacey Coughlin
jonathanrichards@bdp.com
16/09/11
Stacey Coughlin stacey@sams-art.co
Dionne Gbasai
29/09/11
Brian Lavelle brian.lavell@ywt.org.uk
Val Rawlinson
Beth Marshall
Lydia Meryll
Dave Murat
Dena Murphy 30/09/11
Roger Broadbent
roger@dyslexiafoundation.co.uk
04/10/11
Lawrence Hennigan
07771 782 104
11/10/11
Monica Johnson
18/11/11
Beth Marshall beth_r_marshall@hotmail.co.uk
18/11/11
Marnie Matthews
Ian Burnett
Paul Barker
Emily Jones
marnie1987@live.com
Malcalm Cowen
Peter Naughton
Charlotte Smith
Nick Hunter
Les Ireland
James Roper jropermail@gmail.com 28/11/11
George Wood
02/12/11
Lois Piltz 07954 410 612
10/12/11
James Hennigan
John Commons
cllr.j.hennigan@manchester.gov.uk
Les Ireland lesireland@ntlworld.com
John Horsfield James Hennigan
Lois Piltz
10/01/12
Aftab Ahmed ahmedali0786@gmail.com
02/02/12
Ruth Mckenner ruth_mckenna@hotmail.com10/03/12
10/03/12
Peter Naughton Peter@EPNA.demon.co.uk
Monica Johnson
Lawrence Hennigan
Charlotte Smith charlottelmhr@gmail.com John Commons johncommons1@gmail.com Jo Latham jo.latham78@yahoo.co.uk 02/04/12
Aftab Ahmed
David Motram
George Wood
Roger Broadbent
Claire Gannaway
Jo Latham
Key 2 Community Association Member Sub - Group Member Connection Made
Lorenza Casani lcassini.architect@gmail.com Brian Lavelle
NOTE: Large = More involvement
6TH YEAR
Small = Less involvement
LETTERS OF SUPPORT
LETTERS OF SUPPORT
72 Milwain Road Levenshulme M19 2PR
Levenshulme Baths Project
07 May 2012
I have been living in Levenshulme since 2002 and since having a son in 2005 I have become very involved in the local community because having a child means you value the resources on your immediate doorstep more. In 2007 I was one of the organisers of a campaign to replace our community centre which was demolished and I have been involved in subsequent campaigns to maintain or improve the facilities and environment of Levenshulme.
To whom it may concern, I met Ian Burnett a year ago, when he was beginning to focus his participative work in the Levenshulme area of Manchester. I was impressed by the street consultation he undertook, using photographic images of sites which were being, or not being developed and which were of concern to local residents. I invited him to a meeting of the Community Association on 4th June 2011 and he has been attending ever since, contributing and presenting on several occassions. This has not been an easy process. There was an uprising of feeling when a Council plan to demolish the Baths was discovered, and a march and demonstration to Save the Baths ensued. There has also been resistance from the local authority to any alternative to their ideas for a new build multi-use facility in their designated Neighbourhood Centre on the A6. Other ideas for Centres are being discussed by local people and Ian’s design ideas have been very helpful in allowing local people to take an unprecedented lead in consultations, starting next week at the Inspire centre. Ian’s proposals for ecological savings and energy generation will help the council to re-consider any new build or renovation options in relation to the estimated carbon costs of both. The process of community learning has been greatly enhanced by Ian’s light touch intervention and good graphic explanations of alternatives. It has been very helpful to the Community Associaition and to local elected representatives, including Sir Gerald Kaufman MP, to see that a community can generate its own ideas together with the support of a student from the University. We have appreciated his interest, tact and skills. We hope he is successful and would request that there is an on-going relationship with the Department to ensure continuity of technical and design analysis for our neighbourhood. Yours sincerely Lydia Meryll Secretary Levenshulme Community Association
Perhaps the most significant of these campaigns was fought and won in February 2011 when the people of Levenshulme collectively acted to stop the closure of Levenshulme swimming baths. The baths have been threatened with closure over many years but again and again the community have mobilised to save the baths. The next nearest baths is the Aquatics centre on Oxford Rd which is very difficult to access without a car. There is also a great attachment to Levenshulme baths because it is situated off the main Stockport Rd opposite the library and surrounded by parks so it gives a little heart to the community away from the main through road. The council have proposed replacing the baths with an all-in-one ‘service’ centre on Stockport Rd but there is strong opposition to this precisely because it would destroy the calm oasis created by the current location of the baths and library. Levenshulme baths is over 80 years old and in urgent need of repairs and modernisation to bring it up to accessibility standard under the DDA. The baths accommodates two pools one of which can be made very private for exclusive swimming by particular groups such as Muslim women. There is a genuine fear that this would be lost in the new ‘service’ centre but we want to retain this type of provision especially for such a multi-cultural area of Manchester. Given that the location of the baths forms a heart to the community and the facilities at the baths accommodate a wide range of needs, the obvious question is why not invest in the current baths, bring it up to standard and even improve the site to attract new people and new use. This is what is so appealing about the architecture project that Ian Burnett has been working on. I met Ian at the AGM of the Levenshulme Community Association on the 10th March where he presented his ideas, but I was aware that an architecture student had taken on the idea to redesign the baths. One of the key components of our community campaigns in Levenshulme over the past five years has been public consultation. Instead of having plans imposed on us from the town hall we want a say in how our community develops. Therefore, it was obvious that with plans for a redesign of the baths we needed to have a public launch and encourage people to come and have their say. A group of people have been working with Ian to organise such an event which will be held on Saturday 19th May. The exhibition of the redesign will stay up for a week and people will be able to complete a feedback slip to inform the debate in Levenshulme about the future of our swimming baths. This has been a very exciting community architecture project and Ian should be commended for working so closely with the people who will actually use the building. I very much hope that this project will change the approach the city council is taking with regard to Levenshulme baths.
Charlotte Smith 11 Greenway Avenue, Levenshulme.
6TH YEAR
LETTERS OF SUPPORT
9 Eltham Street Levenshulme Manchester M19 3AL Tel: 0161 221 2022 Email: lca@epna.demon.co.uk
9 May 2012 To Whom it may Concern, Ian Burnett and the Levenshulme Baths Project This is to place on record the appreciation of the Levenshulme Community Association for the work undertaken by Ian Burnett regarding possible future enhancements to the Levenshulme Baths building in Barlow Road, Levenshulme, M19. He has devoted a lot of time and energy to meeting with local people in order to understand the community’s requirements and what they would ideally expect to see delivered on this site. His solution contains many innovative ideas which allow interested parties to view and evaluate the site in a completely new way. If implemented, these proposals would give the Baths a whole new lease of life with additional facilities within the building and the possibility of integrating provision for the adjacent playing fields. We are delighted to have been working with Ian and give him every good wish for his future career. Peter Naughton Chair Levenshulme Community Association cc:
6TH YEAR
Lydia Meryll, Secretary Malcolm Cowen, Treasurer