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A characterisation study of the outer conurbation of North Staffordshire that will inform the regeneration of the region
Themes:
Regeneration
Design quality and innovation
Sustainable communities and place making |
Focus:
A characterisation study of the outer conurbation of North Staffordshire that will inform the regeneration of the region |
Background:
The urban core of the North Staffordshire region had undergone an intensive characterisation survey conducted by the Pathfinder RENEW North Staffordshire. Urban Vision led an extensive level characterisation survey of the outer conurbation, from the edge of the urban core extending towards the green belt perimeter. This provided a broad overview and assessment of areas of historical significance in the outer conurbation, complementing the previous study undertaken by RENEW. Collectively these documents will help to inform the master planning and renewal programme for North Staffordshire. |
What happened:
This historical appraisal of the whole conurbation was initiated by Urban Vision North Staffs. Designed to identify areas of historical significance on a scale and using an approach that would make the findings accessible and useful to a wide range of people. The study extended and reappraised the conservation area and identified all the listed buildings in the region. In addition to providing a physical mapping of the areas of historical importance this extensive study also highlighted areas of local relevance. A steering group made up of a range of regional partners to discuss local design and heritage issues and ensure there was regular dialogue around the contents and significance of the survey. |
Who was involved:
Urban Vision North Staffordshire
Consultant
The Conservation Studio
Partners
English Heritage
North Staffordshire Regeneration Zone
Renew North Staffordshire (Housing Pathfinder)
Stoke-on-Trent City Council
Newcastle under Lyme Borough Council
Staffordshire Moorlands District Council
Funders
Advantage West Midlands
North Staffordshire Regeneration Zone
Supported by
Renew North Staffordshire (Housing Pathfinder)
Stoke-on-Trent City Council |
The difference it made:
Urban Vision North Staffs managed the project process throughout and were able to provide an objective viewpoint and neutral ground for the exploration of the issues arising from the study which were complex and sometimes contentious. The study did more than document the sites, it also evaluated and rated the extent to which each site made a positive contribution to the historical significance of the local area. In some cases properties marked for total redevelopment have been reviewed in the light of this study and instead of being demolished will be refurbished. The steering group provided a valuable forum and the participatory process generated a sense of ownership for the study by the organisations involved. This led to greater regional consensus and to the local authorities taking on more responsibility for their historical environment.
The published findings will provide objective and credible documentation which will impact on local area action plans, master plans and local development frameworks who will now take these listed sites into consideration. |
What they said:
“The results of this study will help answer some basic questions for the area’s successful physical regeneration: what is special about North Staffordshire? and how do we preserve and enhance those special qualities? The gathering and analysis of information about historical significance is now recognised as a fundamental first step in the regeneration process. This report provides an overview of the North Staffordshire conurbation, and will help formulate the master plans and major development proposals being brought forward.”
(Tim Johnston, Director West Midlands Region, English Heritage and Dr Chris Wakeling, Chairman, Urban Vision North Staffordshire)
“English Heritage accepts the need for some demolition, but it is important that we learn from the past and do not unnecessarily sweep away places with real value that have the potential for imaginative renewal.”
(Simon Thurley, Chief Executive English Heritage)
"It’s important that Pathfinders take into account the local heritage when developing their proposals. But we need to strike a balance between preserving the past and taking forward action to improve the quality of local housing, if we are to revitalise communities blighted by low demand.”
(Jeff Rooker, 2005, Minister for Regeneration in the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister) |
Future possibilities:
To follow-up on this extensive survey an intensive survey of the specific individual listed sites will take place involving local communities and a photographic competition. The process will engage local people across ages in a dialogue about local buildings. This will generate historical data and archival material. The data will also enable local Civic Societies to have an active role in recording detail on the buildings of historical significance. Supporting statements and documentation, local and narrative histories will be collated. This will lead to a better informed public, a greater involvement and sense of ownership for regional organisations and a valuable knowledge base for the region. The aim is to share findings with local groups via a touring exhibition. |
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More information:
www.uvns.org.uk
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Kinsey Street, Silverdale |
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Biddulph Town Hall, Biddulph |
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Themes
regeneration
design quality and innovation
planning
sustainable communities and place making
young people and communities
climate change
housing |
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