Rainham: Urban Design Framework
Status: 2003
Location: London
Client: London Borough of Havering
Value: Confidential
This study created a framework to guide future development in Rainham Village and the A1306 corridor between Rainham Creek and Marsh Way including feasibility studies for the development of 3,000 new homes. A new public space was created, – one of the Mayor of London’s 100 Public Spaces projects.
We developed a strategic vision and detailed planning briefs for key sites to establish a strong and sustainable community, respecting the unique landscape and wetland setting of Rainham Marshes. The study catches and steers future commercial, industrial and housing developments at an early stage to ensure they integrate sustainable environmental and transport strategies. Selective interventions are encouraged, rather than comprehensive change, creating a safe and inclusive environment and making positive connections with existing communities.
A new linear public space is established which is an informal sequence of spaces along a widened street, with quayside characteristics along Rainham Creek. A wetland landscape allows publicly accessible open space to flood in extreme weather, creating a new model for appropriate development in a sensitive ecological location. Multiple stakeholders were consulted with including local businesses, the LDA, TFL, the Environment Agency and English Nature.
The study was shortlisted for RIBA London’s Urban Space by Design Awards and the framework has now been developed into Supplementary Planning Guidance. The strategy will ensure regeneration and a sustainable future for this key part of London’s Riverside, proposing appropriate building and landscaping that celebrates its distinctive qualities.
Awards
2005 Shortlisted for RIBA London Urban Space by Design Award
Credits
Landscape Consultants: Churchman Landscape Architects
Traffic Consultant: Parkman, Strategic Rail Authority, TfL
Associate Architect: Stephen Taylor Architects
Planning Consultant: Strategic Planning Advice
