TOTTERDOWN STEPS

RESEARCH AIM: How can a neglected site potentially be restored through community engagement and resources?

THE CLIENT: Totterdown Residents Environmental & Social Action Community Interests Company (TRESAcic)

THE team: Daniel O’Brien, Jessica Baker, Dave Caldwell,

John Mullankuzhy& Priscila Andreia Sousa

This project is initially intended to look at the potential for a pedestrian crossing across St. Luke’s Road, to extend the natural desire line to Victoria Park. It is also to explore what can be done to improve the experience for pedestrians and cyclist using the underpass under the railway line along St. Luke’s Road.

In addition, we hope to create a sense of ownership over the steps to overcome current issues, including fly tipping, poor lighting and antisocial behaviour. It is the intention of the project that through the promotion of the steps and thorough consultation, it will improve the aspirations of local residents around the steps, to not only see the steps as a popular commuter route, but to also make them a feature of the community, as a place to dwell and enjoy. An emphasis on consultation and engagement will create increased user participation, and sense of ownership and appreciation of the current urban environment.

To engage the local community we held three public consultation events, which included the community litter pick, the Light & Colour event and finally the Totterdown Arts Trail consultation. Each event was to show the community the potential use of the site.  Our final design proposals identified the current issues and made practical options to improve and enhance the site. The main proposal was the zebra crossing design, which was the most appropriate solution in connecting Victoria Park to the Totterdown Steps. We also put forward planting, seating and lighting schemes to add texture and colour to help generate a vibrant atmosphere that highlights the characteristic of the Totterdown community. J

UWE Master of Architecture Students: Daniel O’Brien, Jessica Baker, Dave Caldwell, John Mullankuzhy & Priscila Andreia Sousa

Clients: Totterdown Residents Environmental & Social Action Community Interests Company (TRESAcic)