Place Making : Waking Poplar Up

Waking Up

Group B2 Emmanuella Warren-zhang Consuelo Morales Ishita Gupta Madi Mukhametaliyev Rungarun Tiyanukulmongkhon

The Bartlett School of Planning URBAN DESIGN: Place Making

Waking

CONTENTS

Up

Introduction

03

Strategy 2. Street Network

16

Strategy 4. Urban Form

33

Master Plan

50

General overview

04

Connectivity

17

Typology development

34

Phasing

51

Weaknesses

05

Street character

19

Higher density

37

Conclusion

52

Opportunities

06

Accessibility

22

Permeability

38

Appendix

53

SWOT

07

Infrastructure

24

Street frontage

39

Contributions

56

Vision

08

Strategy 3. Green Network

26

Housing

40

Strategy 1. Social Economic

10

Green pedestrian path

27

Strategy 5. Land Use

43

Demographic Target

11

Micro-habitat street

28

Leisure amenities

44

Housing Capacity

13

Ecological network

29

Courtyard activities

46

Retail

14

Green roofs

30

Poplar Park

48

Development Rationale

15

Ecological centre

32

Aspen Park

49

Waking Up

INTRODUCTION

The area of study that will be presented in this framework consists of the neighbourhood of Poplar that is located in LondonĘźs East End, around 5 miles from the city centre. South Poplar that will be the focus of this study is separated from the northern edge of Canary Wharf, a large commercial estate by two main infrastructures: a highway called Aspen Way and the Docklands Light Railway or the DLR. This separation is one of main reasons for the major difference in land uses and lifestyles of both areas.

Through the analysis of the current urban fabric in Poplar under the strategies of socio-economic, street network, green network, urban form and land use, this design framework will aim to achieve vitality in Poplar by introducing a proposal which will seek to improve community relations, employment opportunities, provide quality public spaces and promote diversity through design. A bigger goal of this project is to integrate the communities of Poplar and Canary Wharf by reducing the community and infrastructure divide.

POPLAR Canary Wharf

3

Waking Up

GENERAL OVERVIEW

Retail/Restaurants

Green Spaces

Street network East India

d

Dock Roa

Poplar High Street

Public Green Space

Private Green Space

- There is very limited amount of public green space.

- The green space is exteremly under used and managed.

- Majority are gated.

- Lack of wildlife.

- Canary Wharf lacks significantly in green space.

Cultural/Institutions

Retails

Food/Restaurants

Gym

Offices

Primary Road

Pedestrian Paths

Secondary Road

Cyclying lane

- Over in Poplar there is a lack of retail shops and restaurants.

- There is almost no gym and limited office spaces in Poplar.

- Carnary Wharf has sufficient amount of retail, gym, restaurants and Office space.

- Poplar and Carnary Wharf are both significant nodes to central London. With the DLR that runs through Poplar, and also runs into Canary Wharf.

-There is limited cyclying lanes in both Poplar and Canary Wharf.

-The Primary roads define a clear perimeter in the area, providing closer links to the public transport network.

-There are no pure pedestrian zones, therefore in the vision we propose to develop a padestrian friendly path for the future.

This area does not have a diverse typology, however overall there are three types that are present on site: • Slab/Row Blocks • Perimeter block • Tower The majority of the blocks are mostly residential. To the north, on East India Dock Road, most of the ground floor space are either used by restaurants or shops.

Poplar’s row blocks are mostly council estates, they usually do not consist of private gardens.

Typology has a drastic change when it moves into Canary Wharf. Canary Wharf mainly consists of tower typologies. Creating a very daunting atmosphere for people in Poplar.

Typology ad East India Dock Ro

Poplar High Street

Aspen way

Slab/Row Block Perimeter Block

Tower

The slabs/row blocks predominantly have low dwelling densities, this was a weakness of the site that we propose to improve.

The high rise towers, were either office buildings in Canary Wharf or as luxury apartments, located near East Indian Dock road or Poplar High street.

There are no properly defined perimeter blocks, one labeled in pink in the middle of the diagram was the only terrace house perimeter block on the site.

Overall the site does not have a cohesive typology, which could have contributed towards the lack of character of the area. At the same time, Canary Wharf has stolen most of the attention from Poplar.

4

Waking Up

WEAKNESSES

1. Poor connectivity between Poplar and Canary Wharf

4. Local retails are only concentrated on East India dock Road

- Aspen Way and Poplar DLR disconnect poplar significantly from Canary Wharf.

- This has discouraged permeability between the two communities, hence Poplar’s landscape and culture is also significantly different.

- There is poor distrabution of retail shops on Poplar High Street.

2. Poor connectivity between green spaces

5. Unattractive neighbourhood

- The lack of green corridors for ecology is the reason why the area lacks diverse wildlife activity.

- Feel unsafe at night due to lack of street lights.

- The lack of retail diversity, means there are no night time activities available.

- Many edges which breaks continuity.

3. Minimal Diversity of Typology - Dead ends near aspen way, creating an obvious divide.

- Buildings are mostly low rise and low density.

- Lack typology coherence, mostly unorganised slabs and row blocks.

6. Lack of green spaces - Canary Wharf has almost no green spaces, - Poplar has under used and under managed green spaces.

Aspen Way and DLR

Under used open space

Lack of green corridors

Dead-end streets 5

Waking Up

OPPORTUNITIES

1. Aspen way

4. A New Landmark

It is the most important part of the connection between Poplar and Canary Wharf, however it is difficult to walk through, due to the high speed motorway and Railway.

Not only will institutions be introduced into the area, the project felt there was a lack of environmental awareness in the site.This will provide the space for education and recreation for visitors or locals.

2. New development for pedestrian road 5. New Residential Development There is space for a new path for just pedestrians, this also provides the oppotunity to rebuild and densify the area. The pedestrian path will provide a small habitat strip running through the middle.

With the idea of constructing a pedestrian path, some residential areas will be rebuilt in to buildings that allow higher dwelling density.

With this intervention, we hope to encourage people working in Canary Wharf to reside in Poplar. This could provide prosperity to the local community

3. Introduce more retail into Poplar Lack of local retails and community centres in Poplar; It would be a good oppotunity to introduce space for local people to open their own shops and invite institutions to open their community centres on East India Dock Road and Poplar High street. With this, we hope to create an inclusive and vibrant community.

Aspen Way

6. Green Roofs Implimenting green roofs onto of some of Canary Wharf’s skyscrapers and poplars new developed buildings can provide intimate space to relax and chat with others. At the same time become a visitor and residential destination.

Introduce more retail into Poplar

New residential development

Green Roofs 6

Waking

SWOT

Up

- Good connectivity and links to the city via DLR and Cross Rail.

- Competitive Economy -Proximity to C.W. can enhance economic innovation.

- Permeability is poor between Poplar and Canary Wharf.

- Low levels of skills, education and health.

- Key sites lack commercial vitality.

- Existing biodiversity value of the LBTH, including SINCs, open spaces and Blue-Ribbon Network and protected and notable species, provides baseline resource to enhance and complement.

- The terrain is flat, suitable for walking and cycling.

- Socio-economic segregation.

- Diversity typology can be a opportunity to be vary of an alternative future development.

- Increase in crimes.

- Deficient street network, spetially secondary roads are unclear with several dead-ends.

- Funds from S106 agreements could be used to fund biodiversity enhancement projects within LBTH.

- Existing building design may limit scope for retrofitting living roofs.

- Increasing diversity of local residence by introducing housing for Canary Wharf work force.

- Neglected open space and underutilised public land.

- Limited employment opportunities and people travel out of Poplar to seek for jobs.

- Can potentially become a transportation hub.

- Amiable environment.

- Strong historical character.

- Mixed ethnic groups can create opportunities for community interaction and activities.

- Increase institutions: Education centres and community centres

- Air and noise Pollution.

- Population loss because of gentrification.

- Erosion of open spaces.

- If sufficient public consultation is not undertaken, certain biodiversity enhancement measures may conflict with existing uses and not be supported by local communities.

- Lack of long-term investment.

- The area is losing its historic identity, legibility and the overall collective memory.

- Weak sense of place.

- Gated parks.

7

Waking Poplar Up is an urban design framework aimed to promote vitality in the neighbourhood of Poplar, Tower Hamlets Borough, London. A historically remarkable place. Poplar now has several issues leading to its socio-economical and physical isolation from its surroundings, notably, Canary Wharf.

Waking Up

VISION

The proposal seeks to create a place that fosters the local-community desire for waking up in an eco-friendly suburb; where the community could build social relationships in high-quality public spaces, walking through green streets filled with ecological diversity; and where workplaces are closer to home.

This document aims to unlock the place potential within the neighbourhood and also the synergies with its broader context. The approach for achieving this aim encompasses five strategies considering the natural and built environment, transport and pedestrian infrastructures, land use and socio-economical aspects.

Strategy 1 SOCIAL ECONOMIC

Strategy 3 GREEN NETWORK

OBJECTIVE

Strategy 5 LAND USE

OBJECTIVE

Promote inclusive and sustainable economic development.

implement a green network to improve the biodiversity and quality of life of the inhabitants.

Strategy 2 STREET NETWORK OBJECTIVE

Promote pedestrian activity within Poplar and with Canary Wharf to strengthen the life of the community and its social interaction.

OBJECTIVE

Promoting overall wellbeing of Poplar through inclusive land use strategies.

Strategy 4 URBAN FORM OBJECTIVE

To improve a quality of life both of local people and new generation in the place where is a choice for safety, vitality and eco-friendly environment.

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Strategies layer

Waking Up

VISION Integral Framework

Actions layer Connectivity

Waking Poplar Up is a an integral framework that is based on vision of vitality and decomposed into 5 closely intertwined strategies. Almost every action under each strategy has multiple dimensions. For example, street character relates to housing capacity, dwellings density, typology of the buildings, green pedestrian paths, street frontages. Integrative approach ensures consistency and usefulness of the framework in addressing complex, multi-layered problems of Poplar’s urban fabric.

Street character

Accessibility

Inter-relationships between actions

Infrastructure

Green pedestrian path

Development Rationale

Micro-habitat street

Street Network

Retail

Ecological network

Housing Capacity

Green Network

Social Economic

Green roofs

Demographic Target

VISION Waking Poplar Up Ecological centre

Land Use

Aspen Park

Urban Form

Typology development

Higher density

Poplar Park

Courtyard activities

Permeability Leisure amenities

Street frontage

9

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Waking Up

S.1. SOCIAL ECONOMIC OBJECTIVE Promote inclusive and sustainable economic development

Demographic Target

Housing Capacity

Retail

Development Rationale

23% 36% 26%

34%

40% 41%

3 bedroom

2 bedroom

1 bedroom

- Benefit the current demographic.

- Forecast population growth.

- Attract newcomers.

- Consider tenure mix.

- Retail analysis and spatial concept.

- Highrise development and buffer zone.

- Social identity.

- Identify synergies and competitive advantages.

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Waking Up

S.1. SOCIAL ECONOMIC Demographic Target

Local population is projected to grow fast A new demographic can benefit the area

Demographic strategy is mostly based on the natural growth of the current population, but also incorporates potential for newcomers mostly, young professionals. This is based on the analysis of the major areas where a large fraction of Canary Wharf workers come from. It has been assessed what are the socio-economic features and factors that Poplar might use in order to attract and benefit from the new demographic.

Camden

Young professionals can contribute to the area in number of ways.

Their income is sufficient to drive retail development, which in turn creates new jobs in trade - an industry most of the Poplar locals are skilled in. Further, they create demand for new improved housing and blend the social mix of the neighbourhood, making a contrast with Canary Wharf more gradual and enhancing the social diversity which is beneficial for sustainability and mobility of the local community.

Common features of the Canary Wharf working population

Implications and opportunities for Poplar

16-29 and 30-44 - major age groups highly qualified professionals degree holders child-free singles or couples rent private flats have middle incomes take tube/train to work

flexible target audience, relocates easily enhance cultural life of the neighbourhood solvent customers - driving rents and trade jobs walking accessability as competitive advantage

Westminster Poplar - potential housing market

Newham

Canary Wharf - employment node

Southwark

Greenwich

major LSOA areas where workers live current work travels potential work travels

London Datastore, n.d. London Datastore. [online] London DataStore. Available at: <https://data.london.gov.uk/?fbclid=IwAR3zPA-dMkk8Ig9mI9x9MhY8ED6M8WMFB0kkz2NcSKqcXD6pO4Zc1Y3y BCA> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018] DataShine Commute, n.d. DataShine: Commute. [online] DataShine: Commute. Available at: <http://commute.datashine.org.uk/#mode=allflows&direction=both&msoa=undefined&zoom=12&lon=-0.1500&lat =51.5200> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018]

11

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Waking Up

S.1. SOCIAL ECONOMIC Demographic Target Afforability Price-to-Income

At the moment, Poplar is largely a family-oriented area with low-skilled workforce either economically inactive or engaged in trade. While it is important to preserve wellbeing of the locals, area would also benefit from a more diverse demography that would stimulate increased cultural and knowledge exchange and enhance social mobility. Middle-class, highly-skilled professionals in turn may take advantage of the proximity to Canary Wharf – a major employment cluster – while also creating a buffer and integration zone between the affluent and deprived neighbourhoods.

25.0 23.0 21.0 19.0 17.0 15.0 13.0 11.0 9.0 7.0

Poplar is the best positioned as compared to workers’ host areas and surrounding areas in terms of affordability.

50

70

110

130

150

Southwark

Westminster

38%

Greenwich

15%

57%

Camden

53%

Limehouse

13%

Limehouse

Island Gardens

13%

Island Gardens

47%

Blackwall & Cubitt Town

47%

15%

Canary Wharf Poplar

Population density (persons per sq km) 2013

2,966

5,293 13,801.3

Tower Hamle ts - Weavers

17,688

Tower Hamle ts - Sha dwell

15,450

Tower Hamle ts - Mile End East

12,955

Tower Hamle ts - Mile End and Glo be To wn

17,556

Tower Hamle ts - Limeho use

15,000

Tower Hamle ts - Bro mle y-b y-B ow

15,500

Tower Hamle ts - Bow West Tower Hamle ts - Bow East

16,333

Tower Hamle ts - Bethna l G reen North

17,813

Tower Hamle ts - Spi talfield s and…

Tower Hamle ts - Bla ckwall and Cu bitt To wn Tower Hamle ts - East India an d L ansbury Tower Hamle ts - Limeho use

0.3

3,364

0.4

8,111

55.4 56.1

0.3

3,727

0.3

64.0 55.1 66.3

0.3

68.9

0.5

4,000

55.9

0.3

5,875

64.6

0.4 39,500

2.6

27,000

13,000 15,000

1

Poplar

2

Canary Wharf and south of it

3

Peers - Wards adjacent to another economic centre (City of London)

2,250 3,636

London Datastore, n.d. London Datastore. [online] London DataStore. Available at: <https://data.london.gov.uk/?fbclid=IwAR3zPA-dMkk8Ig9mI9x9MhY8ED6M8WMFB0kkz2NcSKqcXD6pO4Zc1Y3yBCA> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018] DataShine Commute, n.d. DataShine: Commute. [online] DataShine: Commute. Available at: <http://commute.datashine.org.uk/#mode=allflows&direction=both&msoa=undefined&zoom=12&lon=-0.1500&lat=51.5200> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018]

65.0 5.8

8,600

7,117

60.9

1.9 46,280

9,860

73.6

1.6 0.3 0.3

The new demographic is in capacity of creating additional demand on goods and services, stimulating job creation and improving severely insufficient job density in Poplar.

55.4

0.6

3,636

17,889

Tower Hamle ts - Millwall

76.5

1.5

3,100

18,417

Tower Hamle ts - Whitechapel

60.7

0.3

3,263

Tower Hamle ts - Bethna l G reen South

67.0

0.4

3,500

2,308

10,231 8,026

69.2 63.3

1.2

10,200 16,650

Employment rate (16-64) - 2011

0.8

10,957.

5 5,500

8,633

Tower Hamle ts - St. Dunsta n's and…

26%

Employment per head of resident WA population 2013

Job Density (jobs per sq km) - 2013

Tower Hamle ts a ver age

Tower Hamle ts - St. Kather ine's and …

60%

Poplar

7%

Lon don

48%

Canary Wharf

18%

Both the Canary Wharf workers’ host areas and many Tower Hamlets wards around Poplar have considerably higher proportion of professionals. It is natural for Poplar to achieve similar levels, if its connectivity and vitality issues are addressed.

46%

Westminster

16% 12%

Blackwall & Cubitt Town

190

47%

Newham

Greenwich

170

Highly skilled professionals, %

11%

Camden

90

Price-to-PTAL, £K per 1 score

10%

Newham

Median house price divided by the public transport accessability score

Canary Wharf

Poplar

Young professionals*, % Southwark

House price in the area as compared to the local median income.

70.8 52.9 64.0

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S.1. SOCIAL ECONOMIC Housing capacity If Poplar could improve its built environment and connectivity on foot, it would be well positioned to attract wider demography given its affordability. In terms of house price to income or house price to transport accessibility ratios, it is more affordable relative to the areas where Canary Wharf workers come from. In other words, one needs to work less to acquire a square meter in Poplar or to pay less for the same level of transport connectivity.

Number of households

Dwellings density (units per sq km) London

Dwellings density (people per unit) 21.9

Tower Hamlets average

5,800

Tower Hamlets - Shadwell

5,282

2.5

46.6

Tower Hamlets - Mile End and Globe…

Tower Hamlets - Limehouse

67.4

2.2

Tower Hamlets - Bow West

40.7

Tower Hamlets - Bow East

39.8

2.5 2.5 2.0

64.2

2.5

72.5

Tower Hamlets - Spitalfields and…

Tower Hamlets - Millwall

52.0

Tower Hamlets - Blackwall and Cubitt…

18% 20%

The above translates into increased share of 1 bedroom flats.

Although current dwellings occupancy is 2.8 people per flat, it is unlikely to be sustained in the long-run, leaning towards the borough and city averages of 2.3 and 2.4.

2.2 50.6

2.6 67.4

2.2

1

Poplar

2

Canary Wharf and south of it

3

Peers - Wards adjacent to another economic centre (City of London)

The occupancy in Poplar is one of the higest, hence both current and new demographic needs more housing.

Households bedrooms need

14% 23%

16% 36% 18%

34%

2.0 1.9

32.3

Tower Hamlets - Limehouse

Households composition

Historic and projected data suggest annual growth rate of 2.5% in Poplar. Besides that, an increase of population by 520 is possible based on highly-skilled professionals migration.

2.1

88.1

Tower Hamlets - East India and…

In scenario 1, population increases only by the current young professional strata, while scenario 2 includes 30-44 age group. In any case, given that in 25 years the current professionals demographic will also naturally increase, Scenario 2 was adopted as a base case.

2.5 89.8

Tower Hamlets - Whitechapel

2043 - Scenario 2

2.4

62.0

Tower Hamlets - Bethnal Green South

2043 - Scenario 1

2.5

72.1

Tower Hamlets - Bromley-by-Bow

Now

21%

Decreased share of large houhehold flats is related to the new (child-free) demographic.

26%

34%

12%

36%

Almost a two-fold expansion of the dwellings number implies substantial interventions into density, typology and layout of the built environment.

2.4

52.1

Tower Hamlets - Bethnal Green North

Both natural growth and migration would imply increased dwellings capacity. Number of dwellings may well have to almost double in 25 years.

1.9

68.4

Tower Hamlets - Mile End East

Further, area may also provide housing for professionals older than 30, which would suggest population growth of up to 520 people.

2.3

62.9

Tower Hamlets - St. Katherine's and…

2,826

2.3

78.1

Tower Hamlets - St. Dunstan's and…

Given the above, Poplar may potentially achieve demographic patterns similar to those in the neighbouring areas: Limehouse, Island Gardens, Blackwall & Cubitt Town. If it could attract young professionals as successfully as its neighbours, given its affordability, that would imply an increase of 120 people in population at minimum.

2.4

60.5

Tower Hamlets - Weavers

40%

11% Couple household with dependent children Couple household without dependent children Lone parent household One person household Other multi person household

41%

3 bedroom

2 bedroom

1 bedroom

London Datastore, n.d. London Datastore. [online] London DataStore. Available at: <https://data.london.gov.uk/?fbclid=IwAR3zPA-dMkk8Ig9mI9x9MhY8ED6M8WMFB0kkz2NcSKqcXD6pO4Zc1Y3y BCA> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018] DataShine Commute, n.d. DataShine: Commute. [online] DataShine: Commute. Available at: <http://commute.datashine.org.uk/#mode=allflows&direction=both&msoa=undefined&zoom=12&lon=-0.1500&lat =51.5200> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018]

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S.1. SOCIAL ECONOMIC Retail Currently, most of the retail, cafes and restaraunts are concentrated near the Chrisp market which administratively belongs to the Lansbury ward. Both Lansbury and Poplar have comparable incomes and population density. Yet, Poplar is lacking far behind Lansubry, Limehouse and other nearby neighbourhoods as well as other parts of London (on which data was available) in retail density (measured as retail floorspace per person).

Current retail (orange) is concentrated around Chrisp market, which is pulling activity from both Poplar and Lansbury wards.

It thus seems to be a supply problem, with the current typology of buildings in Poplar not sufficiently suited for active frontages that retail critically needs. Dispersing the retail activity more evenly across the area would both contribute to improving vitality in Poplar and decreasing some pressure on floorspace available in Lansbury.

The additional demand is planned to be generated from growing population and incomes as well as the new demographic living in and visiting Poplar - the middle class working in Canary Wharf.

Retail Floorspace (sq m) per Person

Poplar

The proposed arrangement (pink) is to distribute retail and cafe spaces more evenly throughout Poplar, utilizing the appropriate typology and active frontages and increasing vitality.

0.11

Limehouse

0.61

Mile End

0.80

Lansbury

0.81

Blackwall and Cubitt Town

0.92

Canary Wharf Holloway

0.53 0.31

Highbury West St George's Kensigton and Chelsea Victoria Holborn

S.5.

LAND USE for more detailed propostiions on mix of

and layout

uses

0.61 0.31 0.60 0.59 0.62

Fitzrovia City of London

S.4.

URBAN FORM for more detailed propostiions on typology

0.94 0.81

0

50

100 150

200

300

400

500

London Datastore, n.d. London Datastore. [online] London DataStore. Available at: <https://data.london.gov.uk/?fbclid=IwAR3zPA-dMkk8Ig9mI9x9MhY8ED6M8WMFB0kkz2NcSKqcXD6pO4Zc1Y3y BCA> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018] DataShine Commute, n.d. DataShine: Commute. [online] DataShine: Commute. Available at: <http://commute.datashine.org.uk/#mode=allflows&direction=both&msoa=undefined&zoom=12&lon=-0.1500&lat =51.5200> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018]

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S.1. SOCIAL ECONOMIC Development rationale Overall, the proposal seeks synergies between Poplar and Canary Wharf to unlock opportunities for both areas. South of Aspen Way, that is recommended to be redeveloped into a park, a North Quay area is available for development. The local authorities may use its proximity to the highway and turn this weakness into an opporunity: the road will be transformed into a comfortable spaces, but the highrise developments adjacent to it (as well as commercial amenities in the park) will have part of their profits redistributed to fund the transfromation. Public funding is unlikely, given the locality of importance that such transformation implies. But for the private developers, road conversion will mean more liveable space next to the development, increased land value and increased profit in the long run, hence the reinvestment has a multiplier effect.

Social Identity and Development Rationale Analysis of typical twitter words used in Poplar reveals that the area is less isolated from Canary Wharf than it might seem. In fact, Canary Wharf and its destinations (such as Giant Robot bar) are mentioned quite frequently, indicating localsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; interest in the neighbouring area. Instead of neglecting this relationship, Poplar can embrace it while promoting a mutual interest and taking advantage of the assets that Canary Wharf might offer (such as high disposable income).

Currently deprived area to be revitalized profit redistributed for the tunnel funding

$$ profit for the dvelopers

New middle-class housing, a buffer and integration zone, source of additional income for Poplar Commericial facilities

North Quay with high-rise development

highrise construction costs tunnel construction costs tunnel maintenance costs North Quay highrise development

Affluent area with expensive developments: source of additional income for Poplar

Proposed Aspen Tunnel

London Datastore, n.d. London Datastore. [online] London DataStore. Available at: <https://data.london.gov.uk/?fbclid=IwAR3zPA-dMkk8Ig9mI9x9MhY8ED6M8WMFB0kkz2NcSKqcXD6pO4Zc1Y3y BCA> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018] DataShine Commute, n.d. DataShine: Commute. [online] DataShine: Commute. Available at: <http://commute.datashine.org.uk/#mode=allflows&direction=both&msoa=undefined&zoom=12&lon=-0.1500&lat =51.5200> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018]

0

50

100 150

200

300

400

500

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S.2. STREET NETWORK OBJECTIVE Promote pedestrian activity within Poplar and with Canary Wharf to strengthen the life of the community and its social interaction.

Connectivity

- Improve the secondary street network to increase legibility.

- Move the bus network to the perimeter of the area to keep the area pedestrian oriented.

- Enhance pedestrian movements through a more diverse network.

Street Character

- Improve the quality of the streets, recognising its vital component for local communities. The streets as places of social interaction.

-Define a clear street hierarchy.

Accessibility

- Create strategic pedestrian routes with a wayfinding signage system.

- Implement new typology of crossings that ensure safety for pedestrians.

- Increase cycle parking.

Infrastructure

- Move Aspen Way to underground level.

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S.2. STREET NETWORK Connectivity Current Situation

The proposal intends to increase the connectivity within Poplar and also with its surrounding area, specifically with Canary Wharf area.

Poplar has well defined main routes which are mainly for public transport use. These routes outline an interior area where walkable distances are promoted. The proposal is drawn on the creation of 20-minutes-or-less walkable distance routes as an opportunity for strengthening the pedestrian features of the area.

Enhancing the connectivity allows to increase the area's legibility; therefore, the neighbours' navigation in the area is improved.

The proposal is focused on improving the network of secondary streets which are currently of a substandard quality which leads to a precarious walking/navigation network.

Primary Roads

Poplar is well connected to the public transport network.

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The area is very walkable, where the maximum distances between the two primary streets that go in north-south direction are reached with a walk of 17 min, the rest of the walks between strategic points (services, commerce, DLR, bus stops, green areas) within Poplar are around 5 min.

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Pedestrian Path

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Poplar High Street is the only street that has road markings for cyclists, however, the cycle lane is low quality and underused.

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Cycle Lane

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The network of secondary streets is deficient, most of them are short streets, producing inefficient connections and dead-end streets that hinder the legibility of the place.

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Secondary Streets

There is one strategic connection between Poplar High Street and the DLR station, but the spatial quality is inferior. There are other pedestrian paths but located only in green areas.

Highway

Aspen Way has a negative impact in the pedestrian connection between Poplar and Canary Wharf, both physically, difficulting pedestrian movements, and visually, damaging the townscape with a high flow of cars.

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S.2. STREET NETWORK Connectivity Proposal Primary Roads The smaller public transport flow that existed in two blocks within the walkable area of Poplar is moved to the perimeter, strengthening a clear public transport network that surrounds the intervention zone.

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It is proposed to create well-defined cycle lanes on both sides of the primary streets to make the movement for cyclists more efficient.

Also, the entire network of secondary streets act as quiet streets and therefore are suitable for cyclists using the space shared with cars.

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Cycle Lane

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The secondary streets network is enhanced, generating direct flows to strategic streets and eliminating dead-end streets strengthen the legibility of the place.

The highway is moved to an underground level and in its place a linear park is created with secondary streets on each side to achieve a fluid connection with Canary Wharf.

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Secondary Streets

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Poplar High Street Poplar high street is strengthened as a strategic street for pedestrians, cyclists and cars, it is proposed as a shared space core.

Pedestrian Path An extensive network of pedestrian paths is created across Poplar, generating different possibilities for the inhabitants to move around easily. Also, the options of connecting with Canary Wharf through the new linear park are increased.

Pedestrian Green Corridor A new east-west connection is proposed for pedestrians only. It is also a key connection between Poplar's green spaces.

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The proposal seeks to revitalize street character through the design of the street as places rather than simple connection devices.

The proposal focuses on framing streets as social-interaction places where the local community is strengthened. In this regard, the streets are designed for producing new environmentally charged experiences to pedestrians, fostering variations and diversity in the new network of streets which are embedded in a more diverse community.

Up

S.2. STREET NETWORK Street Character

Primary Roads New spatial experience: - Rich biodiversity - Textured paving - Street furniture - Lighting

Primary Roads Cross-section 1-1

Secondary Streets New spatial experience: - Rich biodiversity - Textured paving - Lighting

Secondary Streets Cross-section 2-2

Public realm

Public realm

Private space Residential

Private Garden

Road

Pavement and parking area

Private space Residential

Private space Residential

Pavement with random trees

Road

Pavement

Public realm

Public realm

Private space Pavement Cycle Commercial use G.F. & benches lane Garden & residential U.F.

Road

Private space Residential Pavement

Cycle lane

Pavement Private space & benches Commercial use G.F. Garden & residential U.F.

The active character of the primary streets is strengthened by placing commercial use on the ground floors, and pedestrian movement is promoted by providing a better quality of public space, using street furniture and gardens.

In the primary streets, cycle lanes are proposed to take advantage of the strategic connection of these streets with other areas of London, but they are implemented as a safe space for cyclists.

Manual for Streets, 2007. Manual for Streets. [rep.] Manual for Streets. Thomas Telford. Available at: <https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/341513/pdfmanforstreets.pdf> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

Urban Street Design Guide, n.d. Intersections of Major and Minor Streets. [online] National Association of City Transportation Officials. Available at: <https://nacto.org/publication/urban-street-design-guide/intersections/intersections-of-major-and-minor-streets/> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

Private space Residential

Pavement with trees in sequence

Road

Pavement with trees in sequence

Private space Residential

The pre-existing residential character is maintained, but the spatial quality is enhanced to provide a better experience for pedestrians.

New textured paving and new trees with gardens in their base.

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S.2. STREET NETWORK Street Character Poplar High Street New spatial experience: - Rich biodiversity - Textured paving - Street furniture - Lighting

Poplar High Street Cross-section 3-3

Pedestrian Green Corridor New spatial experience: - Rich biodiversity - Textured paving - Lighting

Pedestrian Green Corridor Cross-section 4-4

Public realm

Public realm

Private space Residential

Private garden

Road

Parking Pavement Private space Residential

Private space Residential

Pavement

Parking

Parking

Pavement

Road

Private Private space garden Residential Pavement with random trees

Public realm

Public realm

Private space Pavement Commercial use G.F. & restaurant Garden & residential U.F. extension

Road

Pavement Private space & restaurant Commercial use G.F. Garden extension & residential U.F.

The character of Poplar High Street is revitalized, implementing commercial use along the street using the ground floors. Local commerce is proposed as restaurants and cafes that contribute with outside extensions to incorporate permanent activity in the street and promote pedestrian use.

Manual for Streets, 2007. Manual for Streets. [rep.] Manual for Streets. Thomas Telford. Available at: <https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/341513/pdfmanforstreets.pdf> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

Urban Street Design Guide, n.d. Intersections of Major and Minor Streets. [online] National Association of City Transportation Officials. Available at: <https://nacto.org/publication/urban-street-design-guide/intersections/intersections-of-major-and-minor-streets/> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

Private space Residential

Pavement Private garden

Green Corridor

Pavement

Private space Residential Private garden

A new east-west connection is proposed across Poplar, designed as a green corridor for pedestrian use only.

This new connection keeps the residential character of the area to make it more suitable for biodiversity seeks to strengthen.

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S.2. STREET NETWORK Street Character The highway is moved to an underground level to give place to a new linear park â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Aspen Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; creating a new landmark which will be a strategic link between Canary Wharf and Poplar.

This area is established as an open green space for the diverse community, providing a variety of sports activities and offices.

Highway Cross-section 5-5

Highway New spatial experience: - Rich biodiversity - Textured paving - Street furniture - Lighting - Sports infrastructure

Public realm

Private space Residential

Pavement

Road

Road

Road

Pavement

Road

Pavement with random trees

Pavement shared space

Road

Pavement with trees in sequence

Highway

Private garden

Private space residential

Public realm

Linear Park Private space Residential

Gardens

Road Pavement

Highway underground

Private space Residential

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S.2. STREET NETWORK Accessibility

Chrisp Street Market

Ecological Centre

Waking

All Saints DLR Station

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According to proposalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aim, improving street accessibility is a key element for encouraging walking. This improvement considers two main interventions in the area: 1 Create strategic pedestrian routes with a wayfinding signage system: It considers the creation of new key routes which link public transport with Poplar's landmarks.

These routes give to neighbours and visitors information about the surroundings and different routes for navigating Poplar (increasing area's legibility). A wayfinding signage system will be instaled in DLR stations, bus stops and cycle parking.

The proposal provides more cycle parking for enhancing accessibility.

TFL, n.d. Legible London. [online] Transport for London. Available at: <https://tfl.gov.uk/info-for/boroughs/legible-london> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

Routes with wayfinding signage Bus stops Cycle parking

Billingsgate Fish Market

TFL, n.d. Accessible Bus Stop Design Guidance . [rep.] Accessible Bus Stop Design Guidance . Available at: <http://content.tfl.gov.uk/bus-stop-design-guidance.pdf> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

Landmarks

Crossrail Place

TFL, n.d. Cycle lanes and tracks. [rep.] Cycle lanes and tracks. Available at: <http://content.tfl.gov.uk/lcds-chapter4-cyclelanesandtracks.pdf> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018]

3 minutes walk

Poplar DLR station

London Cycling Design Standards, n.d. Junctions and crossings. [rep.] Junctions and crossings. Available at: <http://content.tfl.gov.uk/lcds-chapter5-junctionsandcrossings.pdf> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

5 minutes walk

Aspen Park

Mayor of London, 2014. London Cycling Design Standard . [rep.] London Cycling Design Standard . Available at: <http://content.tfl.gov.uk/lcds-chapter1-designrequirements.pdf> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

Museum of London Docklands

'Heads-up' mapping

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New Crossings Up

S.2. STREET NETWORK Accessibility

2 New crossings for safeguarding the public space for the local community: A new typology of crossing is designed. The new design aims to improve the walking experience in Poplar's streets, making more pedestrian-friendly crossings. The pedestrian role is moved to a predominant one in the crossing design, making the space safer.

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Current state

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Side view

S.2. STREET NETWORK Infrastructure

Ground Level Underground Key

Plan view Phase 1

S.1.

SOCIAL-ECONOMIC for discussion on the Aspen Way transformation funding

Side view

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W Elevated Ground Level Underground

Plan view

On the first stage, which could be completed within 5 years, it is recommended to extend the existing Limehouse tunnel westwards by a relatively short section. Although it is a minor change, it will improve pedestrian accessability of the eastern part of the road vastly, for instance, creating shortcut opportunities from Castor Lane to West India Quay shopping mall and Museum of Docklands.

Phase 2

E

Side view

In the longer term (Phase 2), the whole Aspen Way is to be moved underground. This preserves the high-speed road while opening the ground level completely to perestrians. It does, however, constraint current driving opportunities in a number of ways. Some of the ground-level access points to the secondary roads become unavailable from the highway.

Hence, 1-lane quiet / local / low-speed roads should be preserved on the ground level, which is also a requirement for fire security and an opportunity for events and retail such as food trucks.

Limehouse Tunnel / middle lanes of Aspen way West India Road / side lanes of Aspen way Local / quiet 1-lane road Underground road (Over)ground road Access points from highway (for cars) Access points from the local/quiet road Lane interchange opporunity areas (for cars) Pedestrian access

W Elevated Ground Level Underground

Plan view

Aspen way is central in physical and social isolation of Poplar.

It creates visionary and pedestrian impermiability, noise pollution, prevents the area from integration with its surroundings, exacerbates segregation. Crucial part of the framework is thus to transform it into something opposite: permiable, open, accessable, inviting, integrating space.

Currently, there are only three pedestrian accesses from Poplar to Canary Wharf, and only one of them (in Limehouse) is a ground crosswalk. On the other two routes, pedestrians have to go over or underground to pass the highway.

Highway itself is composed of two converging roads: West India Road coming from north-east and Limehouse tunnel coming from the south-east. Going westwards, the first transforms into side lanes and the second - into middle lanes.

The fact that all the lanes are placed on the ground level at the Aspen Way section provides interchange opportunity for drivers and access to secondary roads leading to Poplar DLR station, Poplar high street, Canary Wharf and other. All of this was considered in the proposed redesign.

options

S.5.

LAND USE for more detailed propositions on land use on top and around the Aspen Way

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S.2. STREET NETWORK Infrastructure

Poplar DLR station The DLR station is a vital connectivity factor in Poplar, but coupled with the large train depo (KeolisAmey Docklands DLR operator headquarter that is planned to expand) it is also a visionary and physical obstacle. Public transport is at foundation of vitality, so instead of fighting it, the neighbourhood can embrace it while making more visually permiable. The transparent walls will provide more sunlight and views of the new Aspen Park, at the same time exposing the inner construction and making a statement about transparency with which Poplar now approaches its internal issues as well as relationships with the outside area.

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S.3. GREEN NETWORK OBJECTIVE Implement a green network to improve the biodiversity and quality of life of the inhabitants

Green Pedestrian Path

- Introduce a new Green pedestrian Path.

- Improve neighbourhood legibility.

- Enhance permeability.

Micro-Habitat Street

- New habitat street.

- Improve air quality.

- Improve water drainage.

Ecological Network

- Introduce more wildlife corridors.

- Increase biodiversity by introducing species that lack in the area.

Green Roofs

- Intensive vs extensive green roofs.

- Improve illegibility of people over looking the buildings.

Ecological Centre

- Create environmental awareness.

- Educational hub.

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East Ind

Poplar High S

The green pedestrian path that has been proposed in Poplar is a type of Green infrastructure. It provides a strategically planned network that encompasses the broadest range of great quality green spaces for people and diverse habitats for animals that are lacking in the Tower Hamlet. The path should be able to provide multifunctional resources which can deliver ecological services and enhance quality of life and reinforce the identity of the community. Illustrated in the map below, the main pedestrian (Dark green line) path will be covered densely with mixture of plantation, the intersecting streets (light green line) will have more scattered plantation, majority will be trees that have high water storage capacity.

treet

Creating an all Green Pedestrian Path

ia Dock

Road

S.3. GREEN NETWORK Green Pedestrian Path Case study 1 The idea of creating an entire green pedestrian path was inspired

by The SW Ecodistrict Vision in Washington, DC USA. For their green infrastructure, they included green roofs, streets embeded with different habitat coverage, however their streets were mix use between pedestrians and bicycles.

However, for Poplar it will be a completely pedestrianised path, with a green strip of a mix plants running through the middle.

This green strip of habitat will be off limits by people and will be kept for the use of only native animals to Tower Hamlet.

Case study: The SW Ecodistrict in 2030

Why? By creating this green strip, it will reduce urban heat islands and reduce surface runoff. This system will introduce habitat corridors between streets (shown in the graph below labled: main nodes). This will help improve the neighborhoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall legible character.

New Pedestrian path Main Nodes

Dense Plant coverage

Scattered Plant coverage 1. National Capital Planning Commission, 2013. The SW Ecodistrict. [rep.] The SW Ecodistrict. Available at: <https://www.ncpc.gov/docs/SW_Ecodistrict_Overview.pdf> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

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S.3. GREEN NETWORK Micro-Habitat Street

Suitable Urban Plant Species

Urban Plantation city planning Is an important step for a sustainable and fruitful future of our cities. Urban plantation can assist in improving the living conditions of both citizens and the wildlife that fails to find survivable habitats. Plantation of trees that can survive the tough conditions cities is a first step towards green urban cities2. A list of such plantations is listed below.

London Plane: Reaching terrific heights of 35m, the London Plane can survive for several hundred years.

It is mostly planted in cities because it possesses the ability to adapt to severe urban conditions and to resist pollution.

East In dia Do

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A list of suggested plantations is listed below, the list is not exhausted. An Urban plantation city planning scheme can also prove beneficial for citizens. They can be used for shade coverage and even for medical uses:

The space provided on site is not able to retain large habitats such as, open mosaic habitats and woodland. However, by increasing the density of plant species, it can recreate a ecologically diverse green route.

Poplar High Street

Priority habitats in Tower Hamlet1: Calcareous grassland, open mosaic habitats, native broadleaved woodland, rivers, canals, ponds and reed beds are some of habitats that need to be prioritized for conservation purposes in both, London and the Tower Hamlets.

Black Poplar: With a lifetime of roughly 200 years, the Black poplar is considered to be the most endangered native timber tree in all of Britain. Black poplarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is a food plant for caterpillars that are later consumed by many different types of moths.

Nettle tree: Reaching a matured height between 12-17m the Nettle tree is commonly used as an urban tree in many parts of Europe. It Is known for its durability and its ability to survive and grow in areas with high heat and light levels.

Linden Tree: commonly known as Linden or Lime in Britain, this tree should be used in areas where shade is desired. Lindenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Produces fragrant rich and nectar producing flowers that can be of great use to beekeepers and also for several medicine practices.

The treeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mature height reaches around 20-40m and it can survive for more than a 1000 years.

Hedges: considered a part of cultural heritage and historical record, hedges have proven to be of significant value to wildlife species; they provide shelter for birds, insects and other small animals. They also prevent soil loss and pollution levels, while also regulating water supply and flood reduction.

Mountain rock cress: Native to the regions of South Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean, these flowers are considered to be an evergreen herb and can tolerate hot and dry conditions and infertile soils.

College of the Micro Habitat Street; Image was cut into different sections and put together. (Courtesy of Attu Studio)

1. Tower Hamlets, n.d. Tower Hamlets Local Biodiversity Action Plan . [rep.] Tower Hamlets Local Biodiversity Action Plan. Available at: <https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/Documents/Environmental-protection/Tower-Hamlets-Local-Biodiversity-Action-Plan-2014-19.pdf> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

2. National Capital Planning Commission, 2013. The SW Ecodistrict. [rep.] The SW Ecodistrict. Available at: <https://www.ncpc.gov/docs/SW_Ecodistrict_Overview.pdf> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

Rosetta: It is a succulent plant, in order words, their leaves and stem are thick allowing them to store large amounts of water to survive warmer climates Adding hedges will help buffer animals from pedestrians, flowers will allow bumblebee to pollinate.

Trees allow safe haven for bats and other birds.

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S.3. GREEN NETWORK Ecological Network

Green Corridors: Provided by Case Studies Case Study 1

Ecological diversity: It is important to increase the presence of a diversity of species within cities.

This wil be achieved through diversity of plantation/habitats mentioned previously. By increaseing the presence of ecology, a city will feel closer to nature and enhance provision services.

Encouraging the come back of birds will help to diagnos whether a city is well connected by green infrastructure. Becuase due to their high mobility, they use street trees as green corridors to navigate from one place to another.

They can also help with pollination and maintaining the number of insect species.

The dormouse bridge straddles the new Church Village bypass near Llantrisant, South Wales

The overpass will create a connection for animals to avoid crossing the street and being run over by cars. The dormouse bridge displayed below will occure at all intersections (circled in yellow)4.

Urban biodiversity is an indicator of human well-being. Cities that are submersed with species-diversitiy enhance ecosystem services, allowing the neighborhood to better experience different seasons1.

Species that will be introduced back into poplar: The list of priority species identified in the Tower Hamlets is as follows3: Bats Hedgehog Otter Black Redstart House Sparrow Peregrine Sand Martin Bumblebee

Dormouse Bridge implimented on pedestrian path

Case Study 2

Park atop Freeway in Seattle, WA2

Animals living with humans

The bridge will create an important new connection throughout the new pedestrian path for people and animals.

The bridge will be incorporated by green infrastructure, and will continue the same pattern of plantation as the pedestrian street. The bridge will be diverse in animal species and plants, allowing pedestrians to feel relaxed and learn about different types of ecology.

1. Boada, M. and Maneja, R., 2016. Cities are ecosystems: Urban green governance increases the quality of life and protects vital services #OurPlanet. [online] UN Environment. Available at: <http://web.unep.org/ourplanet/october-2016/articles/cities-are-ecosystems> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

2. National Capital Planning Commission, 2013. The SW Ecodistrict. [rep.] The SW Ecodistrict. Available at: <https://www.ncpc.gov/docs/SW_Ecodistrict_Overview.pdf> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

3. Tower Hamlets, n.d. Tower Hamlets Local Biodiversity Action Plan. [rep.] Tower Hamlets Local Biodiversity Action Plan. Available at: <https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/Documents/Environmental-protection/Tower-Hamlets-Local-Biodiversity-Action-Plan-2014-19.pdf> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

4. Coles, J., 2015. Earth - Japanese inspired bridge sparks hope for Britain's dormouse. [online] BBC. Available at: <http://www.bbc.co.uk/earth/story/20151030-japanese-designed-dormouse-bridge-hopes-to-link-habitats> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

Intersections

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S.3. GREEN NETWORK Green Roofs

Green Roofs in Canary Wharf Three types of Green Roofs2:

Why Green Roofs?

Green roofs are a type of SuDS in which plants and substrates collect storm water and release it through evapotranspirration back into the atmosphere.

Some other benefits include: • Increase roof durability • Reduce energy us • Increase biodiversity • Improve air and water quality • Creates Amenity space

Intensive green roofs require: • Diverse choice of plant options including trees and shrubs • High maintenance • Wildlife and peopele use it together Extensive Green roofs: • Lightweight • Limited plant species options • Low maintance Biodiverse Green Roofs/Brown Roofs: • Primarily for ecological benefits

The Canary Wharf green roof idea was inspired by 1 Poultry in London; the green roof had evergreen and seasonal plants which attracted different insects and birds, for example, The Peregrines are a birds in London that are seriously protected and they use tall buildings to mimic their habitat for nesting and breeding. By having a green roof in Canary Wharf is to allow workers to be able to connect with nature in stressful moments at work, at the same time feel a sence of belonging and ownership of the space. There will be a mixture of brown roofs, biodiverse green roofs and roofs for people and animals to mix togther.

Biodiverse Roof

Biodiverse Roof

Biodiverse Roof Intensive Green Roof

Case study: 1 Poultry1

Biodiverse Roof Biodiverse Roof Intensive Green Roof

1. City of London, 2011. City of London Green Roof Case Studies. [online] cityoflondon.gov.uk. Available at: <https://www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/services/environment-and-planning/planning/heritage-and-design/Documents/Green-roof-case-studies-28Nov11.pdf> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

2. Axter, n.d. Extensive and Intensive Green Roof Technology. [online] Available at: <https://www.axter.co.uk/brochures/GreenRoofsOct08.pdf> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

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S.3. GREEN NETWORK Green Roofs - POPLAR

One aspect Poplar was lackin assess to good quality and vibrant green spaces. With the implementation of green roofs on the new typology, it will allow access to build green roofs. Most green roofs will be located along the green pedestrian path metioned earlier. This will help amplify the natural value of the path.

There will also be a mixture of Intensive, Extensive and Biodiverse green roofs. Intensive green roofs will allow people to have their own allotments and grow their own produce, while at the same time allow education for children from local school to learn about the environment. The green roofs will be divided into private and public. Some green roofs along Poplar high street with newly redeveloped coffee shops, will have access to public green roofs.

50% of the New Typology will have Green Roofs implimented

Vision for Public and Private Green Roofs

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S.3. GREEN NETWORK Ecological Centre

A new Ecological Centre will be set up in Poplarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Recreational ground, to serve the local community by:1 - Promoting awareness and understanding of biodiversity and the local environment through outdoor teaching.

- Protecting the new pedestrian green street and help enhance its biodiversity.

- A place where the local community can get involved with voluntering work by maintaining the wildlife, creating social responsibility within the community, through this the community will grow stronger as a unit.

- Educational spaces, such as bee boxes will be on site to demonstrate the importance of bees.

New Landmark: The Ecological Centre

1. The Land Trust, 2018. Greenwich Peninsula Ecology Park. [online] The Land Trust. Available at: <https://thelandtrust.org.uk/space/greenwich-ecology-park/?doing_wp_cron=1544528306.1175000667572021484375> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

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S.4. URBAN FORM OBJECTIVE To improve a quality of life both of local people and new generation in the place where is a choice for safety, vitality and eco-friendly environment - Increase affordable housing - Connectivity to be a walkale area - Sense of belonging and privacy - Sense of security

Typology Development

- Perimeter block typology implement instead of exsiting building typology.

Higher Density

- Perimeter block can delivery maximize high density of housing in Poplar where becomes to be a better choice for living in the future.

Permeability

- Grid line system from street development makes more clear connectivity between place to place.

- Perimeter block typology enhance pedestrian movements through a more diverse network.

Street Frontage

- Perimeter block provides more front sides of building facing along the road which can be an active frontage by commercial activity and community movement.

Housing

Three typical housings for a new typology are slab building type, terrace house type and, mixed-use type. These achieve for higher density and attract to diverse 33 users in different requirements.

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Phase 01 - Demolish building selection

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S.4. URBAN FORM Typology Development

1 7

Building typology development

2 5

There are 2 phase to re-develope

6

3

1. to create new route 2. to create perimeter block

4

According a new route strategy in order to improve a connectivity between two existing main roads, ,East India Dock Road and Poplar High Street easily to walk by grid system and shorter distance.

The new street charactor brings an eco-friendly pathway for pedestrian and it can be a green corridor to encorage people tend to walk or bicycle more.

Demolish building New route Demolish buildings to create a new route : 1. Residential building

2,4. Low-rise social hosing

5,6. Residential building

3. two-storeys stand alone shop house

7. Low-rise social housing

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Phase 02 - new typology re-developement area

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S.4. URBAN FORM Typology Development

Building typology development There are 2 phase to re-develope 1. to create new route 2. to create perimeter block

New permiter block re-place on the selected area

Phase 2 Perimeter Block 4-5 storeys Phase 1 demolishing

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S.4. URBAN FORM Typology Development

Public and Private realms

The distinction between public and private area in each perimeter block because it can provide an enclosure by building and its cortyard inside. This can improve sense of ownership and security and also defining public and private space clearly can make residents feel more comfortable and use more own outdoor space

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Sample general area for density measuring

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Current situation in 2018

S.4. URBAN FORM Higher Density

Density measures : 1. Current situation in 2018 - Gross areadw/ha - Floor area - Number of storey - Units

Density Measures

25,202 2,690 3 267

sq.m. sq.m. storeys dwellings

*counting on digimap info

There are 2 phase to re-develope 1. to create new route 2. to create perimeter block

Density FAR Plot coverage

Higher density

Future situation in 2043

107 dw/ha 0.32 11%

2. Future situation in 2043 - Gross area - Floor area - Number of storey - Units

25,202 9,155 5 508

sq.m. sq.m. storeys dwellings

*on average area 90 sq.m./unit

To increase a number of affordable housing units for the local and new young professional generation who projected that will increase more than twice in 2043 as around 5,800 households.

Density FAR Plot coverage

203 dw/ha 1.8 36%

dw/ha 0%

0 t2

ou

ab

5-6 storeys building forming as a perimeter block can delivery more density than existing.

%

00

2 ut

o

ab

203 dw/ha

107 dw/ha

Number of Households

Number of Density 37

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Waking

Existing typology - variety of building types Up

S.4. URBAN FORM Permeability

Perimeter blocks contribute more quality of being permeable flowing though buildings due to perimeter block create grid system between each block.

New typology - Perimeter block

New perimeter block Demolished building Key road Small road Pedestrian pathway 38

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Waking

Existing typology - less frontages touching along street Up

S.4. URBAN FORM Street Frontage

Perimeter blocks provide more frontages in a ground floor level facing to the pedestrain and movement beside on the street and the footpath.

Additionally, shops, restaurants and community spaces can be an active frontage to bring life and vitality comes to the area where is more safe by eyes on the street.

The main commercial zone on East India Dock Road in Poplar

New typology - more frontages touching street

Street frontage 39

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Waking Up

S.4. URBAN FORM Housing

Target group : Family unit

5,800 households

Single unit + Shared facility

Private unit for couple 14% 21% 36%

11% 18%

Private unit for elderly

Housing type objective : Afforable housing - Maximize density - Perimeter block - Shared facility

Sense of belonging

Interaction

Safety

- Diversity housing and users - Different generation relationship - Mix-used function - â&#x20AC;&#x153;One doorâ&#x20AC;? for all

Sense of community

Sense of security

- Active frontages - Public and private realm definition

Sense of ownership

40

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Waking Up

S.4. URBAN FORM Housing

41

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Waking Up

S.4. URBAN FORM Housing

Precedents The Intimate Series3 An international competition Architect: Natasha Reid Design Client: the Mayor of London New London Architecture Project year: 2016

Court Housing2 Architect: architecten|en|en Location: The Netherlands Client: De Huismeesters Project year: 2003 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2013

The Feldbreite housing competition1 Architect: MVRDV Landscape : Fontana Location: Switzerland Client: The Feldbreite housing competition Project year: 2015 1. Frearson, A., 2013. MVRDV wins Swiss housing competition. [online] Dezeen. Availabl e at: <https://www.dezeen.com/2013/07/11/mvrdv-wins-swiss-housing-competition/> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

2. Davis , A., 2013. Court Housing in Groningen. [online] Dezeen. Available at: <https://www.dezeen.com/2013/11/03/court-housing-in-groningen-by-architectenenen/> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

3. Reid, N., 2016. Intimate Series: For High Density at a Human Scale. [online] Issuu. Available at: <https://issuu.com/natashareid/docs/161004_intimate_series_final_public> [Accessed 11 Dec. 2018].

42

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Waking Up

S.5. LAND USE OBJECTIVE Promoting overall wellbeing of Poplar through inclusive land use strategies.

Leisure amenities

-Improve the current retail/leisure scenario at Poplar by introducing a wider range of amenities.

-Improve existing wellbeing of locals in Poplar by creating a friendly, sociable and inclusive place by introducing healthcare centres, community centres and nurseries.

Courtyard activities

Poplar park

Aspen park

- Achieving a higher percentage of semi-private, public and semi-public space to make it mostly accessible to all through new typology.

- Creating community hubs to improve social connectivity through the introduction of religious venues and sports parks

- Moving Aspen Way underground and creating a green roof with leisure amenities on top of them to attract people from Canary Wharf to Poplar

-Making more efficient use of open space within buildings by introducing activities for residents and locals.

-Introducing the Ecological Centre as a new landmark

-Introducing low rise office development to maximise profits 43

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Waking Up

S.5. LAND USE Leisure Amenities

Food/Drink

Gym

Residential

Current amenities at Poplar The dominant land use in Poplar is mainly residential buildngs sub-divided into high concentrations of social housing which were built in the post-war era and newer developments of private housing that have developed over the years.

Since Poplar is a community consisting largely of immigrants and people of diverse ethnicities, there is a noticable amount of space which is dedicated solely to non residential institution buildings like mosques, churches, community centres, health centres and schools amongst others.

Retail

Religious place

Community Centre

Nursery

College/School

Library

The ground floor uses mainly consist of small local shops, convenience stores, pubs and small restaurants dedicated to the local residents located mainly near Chrisp Street and the East India Dock Road. Poplar High Street does not contain leisure activities even though it is located near an educational instituion and Canary Wharf.

Health centre

Playground

Convinience stores

Proposed amenities location One of the main objectives of the land use strategy is to introduce a mix of uses to attract different types of users and create a lively environment while also attracting potential developers to improve the overall local economy and employment opportunities.

Green space

Since the East India Dock road and the Poplar High Street will remain the two most active roads in our new proposal, the buildings facing these roads are going to carry a range of uses, mainly local businesses to improve local economy as well as adhere to the current character of the place. The exact location of each use has been thought out keeping in mind the wellbeing of residents in the houses nearby and activity rate in certain hours.

Since Poplar currently is a family oriented, mostly low-income areas are denoted by the socio-economic and demographic analysis conducted, the range of uses that will be proposed will be such as to attract different types of users such as middle-class, high skilled workers of different ages from Canary Wharf to Poplar. Some proposed uses are: restaurants, cafes, retail, local pubs, convenience stores and health care services.

Tower Hamlets, 2017. A Profile of the Migrant Population in Tower Hamlets. [online] Towerhamlets.gov. Available at: <https://www.towerhamlets.gov.uk/Documents/Borough_statistics/Diversity/A_Profile_of_the_Migrant_Population_in_Tower_Hamlets.pdf> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

44

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Waking Up

S.5. LAND USE Leisure Amenities

East India

Proposed activities on Poplar High Street

d

Dock Roa

East India Dock Road

Apart from some small convenience stores,Poplar High street lacks leisure amenities such as restaurants, bars or retail.

Proposed activities on East India Dock Road

Poplar

High Str

Since there will be an influx of people working in Canary Wharf coming to live in Poplar gradually over the years, it is imperitive to provide amenities that cater to the needs of different ages and backgrounds of such people as well as the current locals.

eet

Poplar High Street

The new proposal focuses largely on introducing more retail on parts of the road that previously consisted just of residential development. As concluded from the retail analysis conducted in the socio-economic part of the framework, retail is required on specific streets of the proposed plan, one of them being East India Dock Road.

The way to achieve this would be to retain the historical characteristic of Poplar and provide local restaurants or cafes, in short amenities that would be unavailable in Canary Wharf as a means for the people of Poplar to showcase the produce they grow and earn gain revenue at the same time. This approach of catering to the current needs of inhabitants while also looking out for future inhabitant needs is highly sustainable.

The current activities on the East India Dock Road range from local retail shops, to convenience stores to local restaurants. The proposed retail will be local in nature to keep with the character of the area and moreover create more jobs for residents living in the area who currently are of low income. In the long term, this will improve the overall local economy of Poplar, attracting bigger investors to invest residentially or commercially in the area

What will be the nature of food/drink amenities provided on East India Dock Road?

Proposed local retail on East India Dock Road

Proposed convience store Poplar Hight Street

The type of food/drink places proposed along the main road will be open after 11pm, therefore encouraging night time activity and survellience and in turn improving safety.

3D model of amenity distribution on East India Dock Road with retail domination

Martinson, J., 2018. Canary Wharf: life in the shadow of the towers | Jane Martinson. [online] The Guardian. Available at: <https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2018/apr/08/canary-wharf-life-in-the-shadow-of-the-towers> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018]

Sketch of food/drink amenities on high street

Proposed restaurants on East India Dock Road

Proposed retail near Poplar High Street

45

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Waking Up

S.5. LAND USE Courtyard activities

Division of open/green space

Private space

Image of semi-private open space in Poplar

The following maps demonstrate a before and after view of the division of open/green space in Poplar.

It is evident from the first map that currently Poplar has a high amount of semi-private space and Canary Wharf has a high amount of private space. This defines the nature of the inclusiveness and accessibility within the two areas. While Poplar does have a good distribution of space accessible to all, the second map shows how inefficiently each space is treated with high amounts of vacant and abandoned spaces that could potentially be spots for crime or antisocial behavior. To prevent this issue, the new scheme adopts a different approach to typology of buildings which is believed to be a crucial actor in shaping and dividing the surrounding environment.

The new plan consists of the new division of open space with perimeter blocks creating larger spaces within the blocks to be used by both the residents and the locals. The current Poplar park has also been renovated to accommodate a mix of uses and attract various types of users.

Since one of the core strategies of this project is connectivity within the urban fabric as well as open space distinction within the urban form, this analysis is imperative in proving that the new scheme fulfills both these strategies.

Semi-private space

Public space

Semi-public space

Map showing division of ownership of open space in Poplar currently

2.

1

2.

1.

Active green space

Inactive green space

Map showing division of active and inactive green space Image of inactive green space in Poplar

Image of active green space in Poplar

46

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Two types of space Waking Up

S.5. LAND USE Courtyard activities

The current typology of Poplar consists of a mix of rows and slabs which form an indistinguishible division of space in and around it. The proposed 1. typology of the plan diminishes this issue by introducing various types of perimeter housing with semi-private/private open space for the courtyards. Two such examples with precedent images are displayed here: The first block is an open perimeter block situated right off the main road and consists of a permeable green infrastructure with paths that lead up to the entrances of the buildings.

2.

The second typology is a closed perimeter block which is located in proximity to the schools and nurserys due to which it holds playgrounds in its courtyard for children to play in a safe environment.

Safety through design and typology

Division of space by typology

1.

Mobility, accessibility and an overalll sense of safety has been dictated by the way the roads and buildings are designed and layed out. Often in an urban environment it is possible that certain groups of people feel unsafe due to the way their surroundings are constructed which do not incorporate their needs. Therefore, the permeability, visibility and scale of the built environment need to be such as to provide a good sense of access to all, especially disadvantaged groups like women, children and people with disabilities.

Hence, the new plan presents a range of typologies which clearly divides the space into public and private thereby keeping unwanted activities clear of certain areas where such groups might be present.

Semi-private open space design in courtyard

A permeable perimeter block with a semi-private open space not only gives the residents a sense of safety, it also allows for other locals and visitors in the area to stay in constant contact with the natural environment around the and not feel isolated or overwhelmed by built Precedent image of permeable perimeter blocks infrastructure.

2.

The width of both types of blocks allow for sufficient sunlight to stream into the open space which consists of activities such as parks and playgrounds.

Precedent of green courtyard design

New plan showing division of private and public green space

Precedent image of impermeable perimeter block with private courtyard

An impermeable perimeter block allows for a private courtyard accessible only by the residents of the dwelling which gives a sense of safety and security to those residents as the buildings overlook the common area. It is especially safe for children.

Private open space desgin in courtyard 47

Brinkø, R., Nielsen, S. B., & Meel, J. V., 2015. Access over ownership â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a typology of shared space. Facilities, 33(11/12), 736-751. DOI: 10.1108/F-11-2014-0094

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Waking

1.

Up

S.5. LAND USE Poplar Park

1.

Current use

Improving green infrastructure As analysed previously, Poplar contains some green space that is inactive and fails to serve its intended purpose.

Although Poplar Recreation Ground or Poplar Park is not an example of such a space, there is still a noticible lack of activity by the locals on the grounds.

Poplar Park lies in the centre of Poplar between Poplar High Street and East India Dock Road. The importance of renovating this area lies within the proposed strategies of green infrastructure, connectivity and overall community wellbeing. As shown in following diagram, green infrastrucure is achieved by introducing a fully green, walkable path within the park, connecting to various social acitivities such as the ecology centre situated in the north of the park, a church or a religious centre with a garden, a sports pitch and several water features. Since this patch of green space can be found by people taking the quite green street, it seemed fitting to introduce said activities since it acts as a good end point for people walking through to rest at.

3.

2.

New plan showing division of private and public green space

Advantages of green infrastructure

Planned drawing of proposed Poplar park

2.

Green infrastructure has a number of social and health benefits which are the main drivers for the introduction of the new Poplar Park. Access to walkable green streets has been proven to increase longevity, decrease risk of strokes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. Active contact with the green space has also been shown to reduce mental fatigue and help children who suffer with attention deficit disorder function better.

3.

Current use

Current use

Precedent images of proposed amenities at Poplar Park

As for the community and social aspect, green infrastructure has been found to improve informal interactions between people and raise community spirits. Finally, having green infrastructure as a part of built environment not only improves wellbeing and health, it also adds to the aesthetic value of the place which in turn attracts potential investors and future residents.

2.

1.

Proposed Ecological Centre

As a part of improving the biodiversity side of green infrastructure, the introduction of an ecological centre at the heart of the site could be useful to attract users for educational purposes from outside the site. It could potentially act as a landmark for the site as it would be a unique addition to the land use of the current and proposed plan of the site

Regional Environment Centre, n.d. Green Infrastructure and Public Health. [online] Europa. Available at: <http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/ecosystems/pdf/Green%20Infrastructure/GI_health.pdf> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

Landscape Institute, 2013. Green Infrastructure: An integrated approach to land use. [online] Landscapeinstitute.org. Available at: <https://www.landscapeinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Green-Infrastructure_an-integrated-approach-to-land-use.pdf> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

3.

St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s church, Sheffield

Currently on the south of Poplar Park there is a religious venue, this could be reinvented with a green park accompanying it to be a good outdoor leisure area for the locals. An example of which is the St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s church in Sheffield which acts as a focal meeting point for many students during lunch breaks.

Football/ sports pitch

Due to the lack of good sports infrastructurehard and soft in Popalr, the introduction of a sports pitch which could be hired out for larger events will be a good incentive for the locals to get active and improve their wellbeing 48

S.1. S.2. S.3. S.4. S.5.

Case study: Autobahn, Hamburg Waking Up

S.5. LAND USE Aspen Park

Green roof on underground highway The proposed Aspen Way development involves, placing the existing highway underground and creating a green roof with commercial activities on top to attract users from Poplar and mainly Canary Wharf and to act as a common meeting point for them.

The Autobahn 7 which is Germanyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s longest freeway would run straight through Hamburg. Due to the growing congestion over the years and the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inability to cope it it, the Hamburger Deckel project was started by the government who decided that burying the freeway was a practical way of dealing with the noise and combat the issue of congestion. This tunnel project had some added benefits as covering such a large eight lane freeway provided substantial free land for the development of an entire neighbourhood consisting of 1700 homes. At the northern end of this park, the green roof connected with the surrounding green fabric creating a new greenbelt. The project is to due to completion by 2022 after which not only will the issue of congestion and noise be solved, the division that the freeway created between communities on either side will be dissolved as well.

Since one of the main strategies of this proposal focuses heavily on the provision of green infrastructure in the area to create a sustainable environment and increase the overall wellbeing of the people, the introduction of this green roof seemed fitting as it integrates well with the plan.

To balance the costs of putting the highway underground, the activities introduced on/near the roof need to help maximize profits as well as attract potential investors. Inspiration has been taken from the Autobahn case study, but instead of residential housing this scheme will provide low rise office space for investors to want to invest in.

To create a leisure environment, urban indoor farming methods such as green houses for the locals of Poplar to grow their food in will be provided and also a strip for food carts and stalls for them to sell said produce. Sports parks/pitches available for hire along with cinema/concert space for larger events will be provided as well.

Eye-level collage of proposed Aspen Park

Green roof on underground highway, Hamburg with residential housing

Aspen park planned drawing

49 Stromberg, J., 2015. Hamburg is burying the Autobahn and putting parks on top. [online] vox.com. Available at: <https://www.vox.com/2015/1/9/7520805/hamburg-highway> [Accessed 12 Dec. 2018].

Waking Up

MASTER PLAN

50

Phase 1

Waking

PHASING

Up

Phasing is essential to ensure that the creation and implementation of big scale projects takes place efficiently and in a manageable fashion. Therefore, it is important to map out and clarify the life of the project, while taking into account the expected cycle of the project and certain barriers or uncertainties that may arise in the process. Once the mapping has been completed, a number of critical questions can be asked that will help divide the work accordingly between different sectors and professionals. This will ensure clarity of roles, interdependencies and responsibilities.

The phasing of this project will be in three stages of 5 years, 15 years and 25 years respectively.

With the strategies of each topic mentioned as part of the development process, the conclusion made is that 16% of the total proposal will end by 5 years of the development process, 46% by the end of 15 years and the remaining 38% at the end of 25 years. The majority of time taken will be for projects like putting the current highway at Aspen Way underground, creating an ecological network, re-developing the typology and creating Aspen Park.

Phase 2

Phase 3

51

Trees

Waking Up

CONCLUSION Community gardens Waking Poplar Up will bring people and the environment closer than ever before.

Our proposal will create job opportunities, residential estates; enhance street network and public transportation. At the same time, bring back lost nature in the area by introducing the new habitat path and a new landmark: The Ecological Centre.

Furthermore, improving the connectivity between Poplar and Canary Wharf through redevelopment of Aspenway, thus unifying the both sides in the distant future.

Residential gardens

Urban form

Street network

Master Plan

52

Waking

APPENDIX

Up

Strength

History

• Well preserved listed buildings • Designated areas for conservation reasons • Developed transport infrastructure • The area is very close to developed areas in Central London and Canary Wharf • Diverse ethnic population

Strength

Urban Structure

Typology

Weaknesses • Townscape and architectural styles are fragmented • Permeability is poor between Poplar and Canary Wharf • Low levels of skills, education and health • Lack of mixed use in the residential areas.

Opportunities • Heritage assets and green spaces can be used for the community • Improving pedestrian accessibility/legibility • Recreate economic and social ties with Canary Wharf • Create a new vision using the rich history and diversity of the area.

Threats • The area is losing its historic identity, legibility and the overall collective memory • Disadvantaged groups are at risk in Poplar • Socio-economic segregation • Lack of long-term investment • Gentrification

Weaknesses

Opportunities

• The area is split by a railway track • Key sites lack commercial vitality • Less accessibility, many dead ends • Difficult access from poplar to areas such as Canary Wharf

• Potential for employment and tourism • Huge Potential for the under construction area • Can potentially become a transportation hub

Strength

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

• Towers + Perimeter block = Open space / Varied uses / Active frontages • Diversity of types : there is no dominant typology : terrace, tower, slab, perimeter block • Lower density : Human scale • Poplar is organic and community based (may be its sense of place) : row based High Street retail

• Fence/wall = Less walkable = Blank frontages • Weak sense of place • Many streets are exclusively residential lack street vitality • Lack of connectivity between Canary Wharf and Poplar (ease of movement)

• Poplar High Street : 1860-90 = Terrace Commercial • Present = Low Rise slab Minimal shops • Linear Buildings on street (Commercial & Community) • Connectivity : Transit Building / Pathway / Openspcae • Diversity typology can be a opportunity to be vary of an alternative future development.

• Many low-rise buildings likely to be replaced by contemporary hybrid building.

• Lose community based (Unplanned – Organic) and historical images (High Street frontage row)

• • • •

Multiple functions Road structure is clear Good permeability within a single block Various open space and dense transport structure. The complex traffic network enhances the surrounding connectivity

Threats • •

• •

Population loss because of gentrification Lack of parking has caused more cars to be parked on the roadside.

Erosion of open spaces Non-residential areas are unevenly distributed

53

Waking

APPENDIX

Up

Strength • Good transport networks and variety of links • Legibility due to many landmarks • Good signage along district edges that creates a sense of boundary • major institutions and DLR stations are wheelchair accessible • Diverse demographic and workforce

Well-being

Strength

Space in Use

• • • • • •

Strong transportation hub Close to Canary Wharf Religion diversity Leisure centre Public library-welcoming entrance Social engagement

Strength Poplar has a strategic location, it is well connected to the city through major roads and is in close proximity to Canary Wharf

Movement

The terrain is flat, suitable for walking and cycling

Weaknesses • Not many night times activities after 11pm that could help with natural surveillance • No separated cycle paths • Unused green/open space • Higher unemployment due to low qualification • Lack of police presence and tardy service • C.W. has a high security environment with explicitly layered visual reminders that one’s belonging and access is monitored at all times- Illegible and unwelcoming to new users • Lack of nodes and underutilised edges • Insufficient street lighting

Opportunities • Canary Wharf could provide job opportunities • Transport links could attract businesses • Municipal designated cycle path which runs through the area • Increasing diversity of local residence by introducing housing for C.W. work force • Mixed ethnic groups can create opportunities for community interaction and activities

Weaknesses • lack of integration between public spaces and facilities - segregated from Canary Wharf • Poorly managed areas • Area has a poor reputation of drug dealing.

• Gated parks

Threats • Gentrification • Accident risks between bikes and pedestrians • High crime at night or unsafe due to bad lighting and lack of night-time activities • Crimes concentrate on the north of the study area • Large highway between C.W. and Poplar causes segregation

Opportunities • • • • •

Improve green areas Redesign pedestrian friendly streets Increase education institutions Increase density Crossrail/Elizabeth line

Threats • • • •

Air and noise Pollution More cars Increase crimes Disappearance of green spaces

Weaknesses

Opportunities

Threats

• Due to the barrier imposed by the A13 road, Poplar has high severance and low permeability.

• Insufficient facilities to cross: there is high competition for road space for cyclists, pedestrians and vehicles

• Regenerate the street market, also approved by the Tower Hamlet Strategic Development Committee • Provide accommodation for people working in Canary Wharf, densifying poplar. Reducing travel friction.

• Projected population growth and regeneration can stress capacity on the roads of Poplar.

• Insufficient facilities to cross increase safety risks. Pedestrians are prone to accidents when crossing.

54

Waking

APPENDIX

Up

Strength

Natural Resources

Land Use

• Existing biodiversity value of the LBTH, including SINCs, open spaces andBlueRibbon Network and protected and notable species, provides baseline resource to enhance and complement.

• Existing networks of partners within Tower Hamlets, and London, to implement/maintain enhancements and provide specialist, local knowledge.

• Dense population with significant opportunity to enhance quality of life.

• Large areas for potential estate renewal may have suitable design for retrofitting living roofs etc., for example flat or gently sloping roofs

Weaknesses

Opportunities

• Densely developed areas and • Policy drivers – strong support for biodiversity property values may restrict protection, enhancement and natural green opportunities for new natural green space provision as outlined in PPS1, PPS9 space provision. , the Code for Sustainable Homes and the • Majority of development sites within Mayor’s Biodiversity Strategy.

LBTH are proposed for high density • 158 development sites have been identified by housing which may limit the Tower Hamlets with the potential to come opportunities for new natural green forward for development, all of which would space provision. have potential to include biodiversity • Potential conflict with requirements for enhancements of some form. open space and more formal recreation • Funds from S106 agreements could be used to opportunities in densely populated fund biodiversity enhancement projects within area.

LBTH • Existing building design may limit scope for retrofitting living roofs.

Strength

Weaknesses

Opportunities

• Good connectivity and links to the city via DLR and Cross Rail • Competitive Economy- Proximity to C.W. can enhance economic innovation • Amiable environment • Abundance of public hand owned by the council that can be used for community services and create affordable housing • Strong historical character

• Poor connection between Poplar and C.W. which causes physical and social imbalance • Risk of economic downfall in canary wharf due to a poor community feel and less occupied housing • Neglected open space and underutilised public land • Poorly integrated mix use • Old built forms unsuitable for contemporary uses • Limited employment opportunities and people travel out of Poplar to seek for jobs

• Housing for C.W. workers at Poplar can stimulate growth of consumption and expand demand for real estate • Tourist industry will flourish because of strong historic character • GLA’s ‘Poplar Riverside Opportunity Area’ for which development has begun • Encoruage large scale development like the IDEA centre and Chrisp Street Enterprise hub to improve community feel and create mix use • Underutilised space like the fish market is a good opportunity for mix use development • Buffer zone between Poplar and C.W. can be used as development area for both

Threats • The cost of incorporating biodiversity enhancement measures into new development could be challenged by developers.

• If sufficient public consultation is not undertaken, certain biodiversity enhancement measures may conflict with existing uses and not be supported by local communities.

• Sufficient resources will be required for long term management and maintenance of biodiversity

Threats • DLR stations and GLA developments will attract private developers who will raise property prices and competition in the area • New communities could be created that do not integrate with the existing one causing gentrification • Increased attraction on heritage sites can increase rents and privatisation in the areas surrounding it • Uneven development can widen gap between Poplar and C.W. • Smaller mix use buildings and local business might be closed due to encroachment of financial development 55

Waking Up

CONTRIBUTION

Emma’s Contribution:

Ishita’s Contribution:

Madi’s Contribution:

My contribution to the project included: • Analysis of site with diagrams and SWOT – GIS, Photoshop • SWOT analysis in append • Came up with the idea of having a pure pedestrian path – Green network • The Green network Strategy – Photoshop, Illustrate • Worked on graphics for the Land use sections - Aspen way Collage – Photoshop • Organising deadlines for different sections • Provided input for the Masterplan

My contribution to the project includes: • Text for Introduction • Land Use section: - Hand drawing sketches -AutoCad designs of courtyards and poplar park -Illustrator and Photoshop design of Aspen Park - Maps made on Illustrator for each part • SWOT analysis • Text for phasing

My contribution to the project includes: Socio-Economic Strategy: Content, Graphics, Research, Analysis.

Demographic Target, Housing Capacity Forecast, Development Rationale.

Highway Infrastructure: Research, Phasing, Graphics.

DLR station transformation: Graphics, Content.

Vision and strategies: Group brainstorm, Vision Integrity Chart.

SWOT analysis: Spaces in use and Movement summary.

Support material: Demographic, Economic, Social media data analysis, interviews with locals.

Rung-arun's Contribution:

Consuelo’s Contribution:

My contribution to the project includes: • SWOT analysis from Typology part into key findings of the existing site in the group's concept.

• Conceptual sketching • Preparing and developed base map with Autocad.

• Urban form strategy with Autocad, Photoshop and Sketch up.

• Created the Masterplan with Photoshop • Phasing section and Gantt chart via collecting each group members section illustrate on the masterplan with timeline table.

My contribution to the project includes: • Street network – connectivity, street character and accessibility – Photoshop, Illustrator, AutoCad. • Masterplan – Axonometric • Report Template • Layout of the entire project • SWOT analysis

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