4.3 Cultural Industries Quarter

Principles

Degree of Intervention
The CIQ should be subject to a high level of - Repair and Recovery - which enhances the existing character and activity of the quarter, while embracing new development opportunities.

Architectural style and materials
Innovative and imaginative designs should be encouraged to create a unique architectural identity which reflects the contemporary character of the area. However, care should be taken to ensure the impact of these buildings is not diluted by over exploitation of modern architectural styles.

Vacant buildings should be reused, with care taken in the reuse of significant industrial buildings to restore authentic detailing. In sensitive character areas of Arundel Street and Mary Street, the restoration of existing buildings is preferred.

New development should maintain the existing straightforward and robust street pattern, a distinct part of the quarter’s character.

Retained modern factory developments must be refurbished to a standard of design throughout the quarter to ensure they do not impact negatively on the innovative and high quality architectural character being promoted by developments such as the (former) NCPM and ‘Persistence Works’.

All new or regeneration developments should be flexible and adaptable to ensure they can accommodate changing uses as the market dictates.

Detailed guidance on building design, orientation and materials is set out in Part 3.2 Guidance - Architectural Quality.

In the distinct character areas of the quarter building materials should be sensitive to the character of that area with the use of red brick and stone encouraged. Outwith these areas modern materials will be permitted. These should be sourced locally and from sustainably managed resources whenever possible to contribute to the sustainable development of the quarter (refer part 3.2)

Building form and height
Infill developments should respect the existing building line in order to retain the character of the quarter and enhance legibility. These will generally be 3-5 storeys. Refer ‘Creating a sense of Enclosure’ in architectural guidance.

There is some scope to introduce taller buildings at Howard Street and Granville Square, with the creation of interesting and attractive landmark buildings to improve the urban experience and legibility of the city. Along the Ring Road (St. Mary’s Road) and the vehicular gateway of Eyre Street it may also be appropriate to rise above the general height of 5 storeys to provide enclosure to these wider streets, providing it can be demonstrated that there will be no detrimental impact on the CIQ core.

Activity
Mixing of uses within the quarter could offer a diverse range of activity. These uses would complement each other and not inhibit the development of the quarter as a vibrant cultural destination.

Public realm improvements and materials
Public realm improvements such as replacement of overpasses and underpasses with at grade crossings will improve connectivity and safety.

Street furniture within this quarter should be minimal in its layout but the design should reflect its artistic and innovative character.

Unique public art should be promoted within this quarter to reflect its contemporary identity. Local artists and designers within the quarter could be engaged in these projects. An innovative lighting strategy should be introduced to the CIQ to help promote its identity.

The CIQ will generally adhere to material palette and street furniture suite for Secondary Zones as set out in table 5.1 and 5.2 respectively (part 5.1).

Landscaping works should be introduced to re-naturalise the exposed areas of the Porter Brook at Brown Street to provide new public spaces and create an attractive juxtaposition to the industrial built form.

< Previous | Top | Back to main Quarter Plan | Next >