We have developed a method for assessing the quality of places, using it to develop successful strategies for change
We have developed a method for assessing the quality of places, using it to develop successful strategies for change
Successful places celebrate their local context. UDS helps organisations to understand the context and character of an area, and to enhance it. Place appraisal creates the foundations for successful development.
We can help your organisation to understand a place’s context and character, and find ways to enhance it.
Contact Us Now
Client: the Urban Design Alliance
Project led by Rob Cowan
Placecheck is a method of assessing the qualities of a place, showing what improvements are needed, and focusing people on working together to achieve them. It is the simplest method for communities to take charge of their local areas and, to create action plans to improve streets, spaces, parks and neighbourhoods.
The method has been used widely throughout the UK, with critical acclaim for its effectiveness and simplicity. It continues to underpin community and neighbourhood plans; local authority policy and guidance; and school curriculum in developing an understanding for civic and community planning. For more information, see the Placecheck website.
Client: Stoke-on-Trent Borough Council Project led by UDS with CZWG and Arup
The two-day design workshop was held with major stakeholders to establish a vision for the town centre. Group workshops, discussions and presentations led to the development of a series of town centre design principles, town-wide and area-wide proposals, and a delivery strategy identifying leadership roles.
Initial illustrative masterplans were developed to show how to achieve the potential of the historic core, reconnect neighbourhoods across the ring road, enhance pedestrian spaces, create new gateways, and raise aspirations through transformational projects. An outline delivery strategy showed how to achieve the vision.
Client: Transport for London and London Borough of Brent
Project led by UDS
UDS organised and facilitated this community workshop to develop design principles to guide the detailed design of the Harlesden Public Realm Scheme, Brent’s transformational project for the next four years. Workshops focused on the development of the big idea; creating the area’s cultural map; rethinking parking and public transport; and furnishing the street.
Client: Architecture and Design Scotland and East Renfrewshire Council
Project led by UDS
The Big Weekend workshop identified renaissance themes to guide resources and investment for the village over the next few years. UDS facilitated plenary sessions, walkabouts and workshop sessions in which the community developed the big ideas. The weekend’s climax was a public meeting exploring the themes that were to be developed into an overall vision for Neilston.
Client: the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC)
Edited by Rob Cowan since 2000
Context, the journal of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation, is one of the most highly regarded professional publications in the built environment field. The IHBC has pioneered building conservation as an essential part of placemaking.
Client: SUST, the Scottish Sustainable Design Initiative
Project led by UDS
Sustainable Neilston focused on creating an integrated approach to delivering long-term value to the community. An assessment of issues facing the village led to projects being identified. These focused on climate change adaptation, resource use, demographic shifts, employment diversification, infrastructure services, and education and health services.
For more information visit www.placecheck.info
UDS can help your organisation to understand a place’s context and character, and find ways to enhance it
Contact Us Now
