4.4 Devonshire Quarter

Principles

Degree of Intervention
Devonshire should follow a programme of - Repair and Recovery - which enhances the existing ‘urban village’ character of the quarter, while embracing new opportunities and a variety of uses.

Architectural style and materials
The architectural style will be innovative and contemporary and make a positive contribution to the vibrancy of the quarter.

The regeneration and refurbishment of existing buildings should provide adaptable space to enable the evolution of the quarter over time.

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

Buildings should address the street to maintain the compact ‘urban village’ feel of the quarter and provide natural surveillance to enhance safety on the street.

In the distinct character areas of the quarter building materials should be sensitive to the character of that area. 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)

New development and the regeneration of existing buildings at Glossop Road/West Street, St. Mary’s Gate and Charter Square should reflect their gateway locations to ensure that a memorable arrival point is created.

Building form and height
New development should be innovative and contemporary in design but should respect, and make a positive contribution to, the scale and proportion of existing built form.

Buildings within this quarter should generally be of 2 –5 storeys to reflect the existing building height and enhance the impact of the quarter’s landmark building - West One. Refer ‘Creating a sense of Enclosure’ in architectural guidance.

Public realm improvements and materials
The public realm improvements of Division Street must be extended to the side streets to create a more coherent and attractive urban environment.

The Devonshire quarter 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) with the exception of Division Street and the area from Trafalgar Street to Heart of the City bound by Division Street and Wellington Street which will adhere to the Primary Zone palette of materials and street furniture set out in these tables (refer diagram 3.3).

Creation of dual function spaces to accommodate occasional outdoor activities including local festivals, exhibitions and specialist markets should be encouraged.

Soft landscaping should be limited to Devonshire Green and Gell Street Park to maximise its urban park feel. This space should be informal in design to give the users a sense of ownership.

The possibility of implementing a unique street lighting scheme through the replication of the lamppost signage which marks the entrance to the quarter at Carver Street should be explored.

Car parking will be rationalised and multi-functional shared surface areas created wherever possible to help improve the pedestrian experience of the quarter. Parking will be provided in the form of underground/basement parking with some short stay on-street parking.

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