Foreword Improving the public realm and making it a place for people
is a priority for the London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames.
Putting quality first, in terms of design and materials, we are
committed to preserving the special character of the different places
that make up our borough and minimising the impact of highway
infrastructure and the associated signage and street furniture.
This guide is based on the approach we have been taking for
some time to the public realm.We have worked hard to ensure
a coordinated response across Council departments in a design
lead approach. Leading the way in best practice the Public Space
Group, comprising of highway and design professionals, meets
regularly to review projects that will impact on the borough’s
streets and open spaces.
Section 12 highlights some of our recent success stories where we
have achieved a balanced approach, meeting highway requirements,
in projects that have improved the quality of the environment
through their considered design.
London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames
Planning Policy and Design
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
1
Contents 1
1.1
1.2
INTRODUCTION, VISION & AIMS
Purpose of the Guide
5
Context issues
7 2
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
POLICY
Introduction
Local policy context
Other local policy
National policy
Regional policy
13 14 16 18 19 3
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9
3.10
PROCEDURE
Area studies approach
Public Space Group
Scheme initiation
Project management
Internal consultation
External consultation
Implementation
Post implementation
Partner organisations
Interface of public and private realm
21 22 24
25
26
29 30
32
33
34 4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
FLOORSCAPE
General principles
Problems
Guidelines
Conservation
Footway surfacing
Carriageway surfacing
37
38
39
39
40
45
5
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
FURNITURE
General principles
Seating
Bollards
Railings
Litterbins
Cycle stands, parking and shelters
Bus shelters
49
50
52
55
58
60 62
6
6.1
6.2
SIGNAGE
General principles
Parking signage
65
66
2
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
Contents P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
6.7
6.8
Other traffic related signage
borough and local identity signage
Signage for pedestrians and cyclists
CCTV and security signage
Local maps and noticeboards
Street nameplates
68 69 70 71 72 73 7
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
LIGHTSCAPE
General principles
Problems
Guidelines
Types of lighting
Uplighting and in paving lighting
77 78 78 79 81 8
8.1
8.2
8.3
8.4
8.5
GREENSCAPE
Introduction
Character areas and open spaces
Thames Landscape Strategy,Thames Strategy and Arcadia
Trees
Issues
83 84 90
92 97 9
RIVERSCAPE
99 10
10.1
10.2
10.3
10.4
10.5
10.6
10.7
10.8
O T H E R P U B L I C S PA C E I S S U E S
Introduction
Public Art
Graffiti and vandalism
Recycling
Street advertising
Telephone call boxes
CCTV
Traffic light/utility cabinets
103
104
104 105
105
106 107
109 11
CHARACTER AREAS
111 12 EXAMPLES
12.1 Example schemes
12.2 Elements not to be used
125 125 125 13
135 REFERENCES & APPENDIX
3
1 Introduction, Vision & Aims 1.1 PURPOSE OF THIS GUIDE
Background
The first Richmond upon Thames Street Design Guide was produced
in 1995 and was one of the first examples of its kind. It aimed
to coordinate aspects of the street scene and improve the level
of design.This Public Space Design Guide is a completely new
document, although it builds on work started with the previous guide.
Aims
The overall aim is to provide guidance to help deliver the goal
of improved streetscape and public spaces.The aims of this current
guide are to:
Improve the quality of the street scene and public spaces
Guide changes so that they reinforce the character of the location
Enhance the townscape and landscape
Improve and coordinate the management of the public realm
to promote integrated townscape management
Why have a guide?
The Guide is designed to provide information and guidance on the
main issues affecting the street scene and public spaces in this
borough. It is recognised that the borough is not just made up of
one type of environment, and that its diversity should be reflected
in the form which public space design takes. It is envisaged that the
Guide will also be useful for private developments in order to link
these in with the prevailing environmental character.
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
5
1 Introduction, Vision & Aims Findings from the preparation of the guide
The overall environmental quality is very high, an amalgam
of buildings, public spaces and landscape
Street clutter often originating from different organisations
is a continuing problem
The borough is made up of very diverse environments
and projects have reflected this with varying success
The street scene is still dominated by signage, markings
and clutter causing visual chaos
A good start has been made in many areas in improving
the street scene and public spaces
The section on Context Issues elaborates on some
of the issues raised.
A separate section provides an outline assessment of the
different character areas of the borough, with environments
ranging from urban to semi rural/ pastoral. It is considered that
different approaches are needed in areas of distinctive character,
although some elements should be used throughout the borough
to strengthen its overall identity.
Develop quality Reinforce character
6
Enhance townscape P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
1 Introduction, Vision & Aims 1.2 CONTEXT ISSUES
Sensitive areas
This borough has a particularly high density of sensitive areas.
The term is used in the Guide for areas which may include the
following elements:
Listed buildings and Buildings of Townscape Merit
Conservation areas
Key views and riverside locations
Adjoining open spaces
Design
Richmond upon Thames promotes good modern design and
wishes to reflect this in the public realm.
This can include both traditional and modern design.Traditional
furniture and elements are known to work well in the borough,
such as lighting, seating and bollards. However, modern elements
can also work well in traditional settings.
Enhance the landscape Designs for sensitive areas P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
7
1 Introduction, Vision & Aims Modern with traditional Quality materials
and finish
Reinforce local area
distinctiveness
Simplification
It is very easy for public spaces and the street scene to become
cluttered with unrelated elements often installed by different
bodies that can detract from the appearance of the area.
The aim is to reduce unnecessary clutter as far as possible.
High quality
Quality of both materials and workmanship are seen as being
particularly important to developing good streetscape and
public spaces.
Local distinctiveness
One of the main aims of the Guide is that works in the public
realm should reflect the diverse character of different parts of the
borough. It is considered that some elements in the street scene
should reflect the borough as a whole, but that others need to
relate to the distinctiveness of the local area and reinforce it.
8
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
1 Introduction, Vision & Aims Dark green Dark blue/grey
A separate section provides an outline assessment of the
different characters of the borough, ranging from urban to semi
rural/ pastoral. It is considered that interventions in the street
scene and public spaces should reflect these distinctions.
Colour
The approach taken in relation to colour and street furniture
is to have a restricted range of styles and colours in the borough
with some unifying elements, but with a limited range of colour
variation to reflect local distinctiveness.The approach is
considered particularly appropriate in this borough because
of strong distinctions between urban and less urban areas and
the considerable character differences between local areas.
This is reflected in choice of street furniture and paving, and also
in street furniture colours.Whilst there are some distinctive
unifying elements-such as dark green light columns generally used
throughout the borough, variations in street furniture colour have
been used in Twickenham, Ham and Petersham and Richmond
areas, for example.
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
9
1 Introduction, Vision & Aims Where distinctive colours are used on street furniture
BS14C40 Dark green
General
BS18B29 Dark blue/grey
Twickenham town centre
BS20C40 Dark blue
Twickenham town centre seats
and other riverside locations.
BS12B15 Light olive green Alternative to dark green- some
landscape areas
Silver-grey
Twickenham town centre lighting
Black
Richmond town centre and
selected other locations
RAL7021 Dark grey
Posts/ bollards to limit areas
of black
White
Richmond Green, other greens,
some riverside, Petersham
and Ham
BS16C33 Light blue/green
Isleworth Promenade, Ranelagh
Drive – reflects bronze
patination on Twickenham Bridge
* Locations will be shown on a map Ranelagh Drive railings Light olive green
10
Silver lighting P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
1 Introduction, Vision & Aims Access
The Disability Discrimination Act makes it essential to
incorporate access for all in any proposals. Careful siting of street
scene elements, and grouping of street furniture to avoid
obstructions need to be considered in relation to those with
sight and mobility problems, as well as ensuring ease of
movement in surfacing schemes. Consultation with relevant
organisations should be made for new schemes.
Safety
The safety of public spaces is a key concern, and this Council has
established a Community Safety Team to address this issue. CCTV
is being introduced to a number of locations, and measures are
being taken to improve lighting and ensuring that spaces are easy
to survey.The avoidance of seating where there is a significant risk
of anti-social behaviour is sensible, although a compromise may be
needed to be balanced against the needs of those who would
benefit from the provision of facilities. There is evidence that
seating encourages use and that well used areas are safer than
those which are underused. The Council has produced
Supplementary Planning Guidance on Security by Design.
Black
Dark grey
White P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
11
2 Policy
2.1 INTRODUCTION
The publication of the Design Guide aims to promote design of
the highest quality in the public realm, specifically the street scene
and other public open space.The guide is instrumental to taking
forward the key aims of the Council.The local policy context is
outlined in this section.
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
13
2 Policy 2.2 LOCAL POLICY CONTEXT
Community Plan 2003-6
At the heart of the Community Plan is investing in the
environment and encouraging Civic Pride. A key aim is to protect
the street scene and improve the appearance of open spaces and
the built environment.
Civic Pride
The Civic Pride programme aims to make Richmond upon
Thames the safest, cleanest and greenest borough in London,
where quality public services are available at a reasonable cost
and local people are at the heart of building and enhancing the
borough.The six key elements are as follows:
Safe streets – policies to deter and detect criminal and anti­
social behaviour
Clean and green streets – policies to remove rubbish and
graffiti quickly and reduce, remove and reuse waste
Customer First – policies to deliver quality services in a way
and at a time that is convenient for all
Education Action – delivering a high standard of education to
fit the requirements of all Richmond upon Thames residents
Value for money – ensuring prudent financial control as the
prerequisite for the stability of the Council and consistent
provision of services
Civic Guardian – policies to protect and enhance the natural
and built environment.
14
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
2 Policy Best Value Review of Street Scene and Open Spaces
The Review developed a vision statement as set out below:
“Our vision is to create quality streets and open spaces that
improve people's perception and experience of the borough,
in which they take a pride, and are accessible to all to enjoy”
Streets should be:
Attractive, comfortable and safe
Visually simple and free from clutter
Sympathetic to local character and activity
Maintained to the highest standards. Seen as clean streets, free
from graffiti and dog fouling, with roads, footways and trees
well maintained.
“We will achieve this through an integrated and strategic
approach working with partners and stakeholders and with
attention to detail on the ground.”
The Best Value Review recognised that to achieve a design-led
street scene there needs to be defined standards for all works both
by the Council and other partners, which this Guide specifies.
Civic Pride in
Twickenham
STREET S
CENE RE
VIEW
FINAL RE
P O RT
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
15
2 Policy 2 . 3 OT H E R L O C A L P O L I C Y
Local policy underpinning the Design Guide includes the Unitary
Development Plan adopted in April 2005 and other related guidance
and policy documents.The specific policies in the local Unitary
Development Plan include those in the chapters on the Open
Environment, Built Environment, and Town Centre and Shopping,
specifically those with the principal objective to preserve and
enhance the accessibility, viability and appearance of the townscape,
landscape and riverscape which give the borough its special
character. A Local Development Framework is being prepared
which will eventually supercede the Unitary Development Plan.
Other local guidance and policy documents that have informed
the guide include:
Community and Service Plan – identifies Council priorities
and projects
Supplementary Planning and Design Guidance – underpins,
reinforces and adds detail to the relevant policies in the Unitary
Development Plan
16
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
2 Policy LONDON BORO
UGH OF RICHM
OND UPON TH
AMES
Planning
Information for
HISTORIC
BUILDINGS –
Maintenance
& Repair
This leaflet is designed primarily
to inform owners
of historic buildings, and
those concerned with their
upkeep, how current practice
and legislation can affect
them, and to give very general
advice as to how historic
buildings should be maintaine
d.
Other leaflets in this series
deal with Conservation Areas
,
Historic Buildings, Buildings
of Townscape Merit and
the
legal aspects of Listed Buildings
.
The philosophy of repair
– repair versus restorati
on
The best method of responsib
ility preser ving and conservin
g
historic buildings from the
effects of decay or changing
requirements is to carry
out regular maintenance,
rather
than allowing buildings to
deteriorate to such an extent
that
it is necessary either to demolish
or ‘restore’.The latter can
imply the loss of much character
istic detail and original fabric
and their replacement by
modern facsimiles.
‘Restoration’ should only
be considered as a last resor
t
to prevent complete rebuilding
or even demolition and it
is
therefore preferable to avoid
such problems and keep
the
fabric sound through regular
repair,
existing fabric as far as possible.A i.e. to conserve the
par t from anything else
the principle of good housek
eeping is sound economi
cs.
By keeping a building ‘old’
its historic interest is maintaine
d.
It is advisable to retain as
many existing features of
interest
as possible whether on view
or not.To lose features or
to
replace them with replicas,
as a result of negligence or
for any
other reason, will inevitabl
y devalue the quality of the
building.
Where repair works have
to be undertaken traditiona
l
materials and methods are
favoured in order to lessen
the impact of the works
and retain the integrity of
the
building. Historic building
repair is best carried out
with
similar materials to the original
construction. Modern
techniques and materials
can be used but only with
care
and an over-riding purpose
of retaining the character
of
the building. Replica and
facsimile details should be
avoided
in favour of conserving the
existing
advisable to carry out wholesale fabric. It is seldom
replacement if surgical
repair is possible.
Annual inspections for rot
and damp; cleaning of gutters,
downpipes, hoppers and
airbricks and every five years
the
inspection of the fabric, exterior
woodwork, painting,
masonr y and pointing are
all good practices to avoid
problems occurring. At all
times it is imperative to prevent
water penetrating the building.T
his will not only damage
interior decorations and
fittings but if prolonged and
unchecked can create condition
s for wet and dry rot
to take hold and threaten
the entire building.
Tuck pointing being carried
out to ‘The Green’
Hampton Court
Brickwork & Masonr
y
Over the last five centuries
it is the inherent character
of
brickwork and its weather
ing that have given the Borough’
s
historic buildings their particular
quality. Particular care needs
to be taken when defects
in brickwor k, such as settlemen
t,
require repairs to be under
taken.The size, colour and
PLANNING INFO
R M AT I O N L E A F L
E T N O. 4 – H I S T
ORIC BUILDINGS
1
Community Safety Partnership Strategy – aims to reduce
crime and disorder working with key partners
Open Spaces Strategy – sets out a vision for the protection,
management and enhancement of the borough’s parks and
open spaces
Tree Strategy – provides detailed guidance on the
implementation of relevant Unitary Development Plan policies
relating to planting and management of trees
Walking Strategy – highlights the importance of encouraging
walking and how this can be done, including an emphasis on
improving the streetscape
Thames Landscape Strategies – covering Hampton to Kew
(including the Arcadia project), and Kew to Chelsea.
Dedicated to the holistic (historic, aesthetic and
environmental) design and management of the unique
River Thames environment in the borough
Local Transport Strategy – outlines the direction of the
development and improvement of transport over the next
five years.
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
17
2 Policy 2 . 4 N AT I O N A L P O L I C Y
PPS 1 “Creating Sustainable Communities”, Annex C, states that
planning should encourage good design and that Local Planning
Authorities should plan positively to achieve good quality urban
design by adopting clear policies and guidance – taking account
of the good practice set out in “By Design” (referred to below).
The policy of Town Centres and Retail Development in PPS 6,
discusses design in more detail, and raises the issue of clutter and
maintenance. This is one of the main concerns of the Design Guide.
PPS 6 (page 17: 2.38) states that “street furniture and signs, if not
well-designed and coordinated, can cause visual clutter. Local
planning authorities are therefore encouraged to review, in
consultation with others including the relevant highways authority,
the amount, design, siting, and maintenance of street furniture,
paving and signs. A review of street furniture and paving materials
will be a key issue in drawing up a strategy for improving the
environment of the town centres.”
18
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
2 Policy 2.5 REGIONAL POLICY
The value of good design is stressed in regional guidance: regional urban renaissance is a vision set out by Regional Planning Guidance for the South East (Chapter 5 RPG 9: March 2001). The aim of the urban renaissance is to create the quality of life necessary to make urban living desirable.The document states that “the sustained success of urban areas will be predicated on five central principles, one of which is achieving design excellence.”
The London Plan also addresses the importance of high quality public space in the urban environment. Policies 3A.14, 4B.4/5, 4B.7 and 4B.11 of The London Plan encourages: A strategic approach to ensure consistency and high quality
of design and management of public space
Inclusive design that is accessible and usable for all and meets
the needs of diverse groups including the disabled, older
people, children and young people
The recognition and management of local distinctiveness
The protection and enhancement of historic assets.
The plan states that the highest quality of design in London’s
public spaces is needed to achieve a city that is more attractive,
safer and easier to get around for everyone.
Other Publications that guide best practice
Several other documents that concentrate on design excellence
and that have informed the Public Space Design Guide include:
By Design (CABE/DETR: 2000) Paving the Way (CABE/DETR: 2001) Streets for All (English Heritage: 2000) Civic Trust publications. P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
19
3 Procedure 3.1 AREA STUDIES APPROACH
The approach now being emphasised for public space work is to
focus direction on specific areas in the borough, so that inputs from
different sections within the Council and outside bodies can be
coordinated for maximum overall benefit. The approach has been
piloted in the East Sheen area, where a street scene review has been
carried out.
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
21
3 Procedure 3 . 2 P U B L I C S PA C E G R O U P
The Public Space Group (PSG) has been established to coordinate
issues related to the street scene and public space and ensure
intersectional collaboration towards improving the public realm.
It provides a framework to ensure a consistent and high standard
approach to the design and maintenance of street scene and public
space issues. It meets regularly and, in addition to the main Policy
Group, has a number of subgroups, which includes Scheme Review,
Design Guide, Communications and Signage.
The following summarises the procedure for progressing
proposals. A flowchart is provided to summarise the process
(see next page).
What is a scheme?
When is it a ‘scheme’ and when is it just ‘minor works’
of street/park furniture or repair work?
A ‘scheme’ is defined as all ‘works’ in the public realm except
for installation of ‘minor’ items of street/park furniture and
reinstatement of surfacing which accord with the Public Space
Design Guide.This latter group of works defined as ‘minor works’
would only be re-defined as a ‘scheme’ if it is potentially
controversial or likely to be highly disruptive when implemented.
It is the responsibility of the appointed project manager to make
this decision. All ‘schemes’ should be submitted by the project
manager to the PSG at a very early stage in the form of a brief
description of the work.
Why should schemes be submitted to the Public
Space Group?
The PSG represents the main disciplines across the Environment
Directorate which may be drawn upon in the development of a
scheme. It is a more effective use of officer time for input to be
provided early on in the scheme development.
Richmond, example scheme 22
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
3 Procedure THE SCHEME PROCEDURE PROCESS 3.3 Scheme initiation
▼
Schemes can originate from: Transport, Highways, Parks, Urban
Design, Property Services, Development Control,Thames
Landscape Strategies, Arcadia, Civic Pride.
3.4 Project Management
▼
Project Manager to investigate area, write brief description
and add to list of projects for Public Space Group (PSG)
PSG to consider / input
Project Brief written by Project Manager – Identify roles,
responsibilities and stakeholders
Hold ‘kick off’ meeting with team/relevant contacts
(email if small scheme)
3.5 Scheme Development/Internal consultation
▼
Scheme development which includes drawings/proposals
‘Before’ photos taken by Project Manager
Go to PSG again with scheme proposal
Other internal consultation
Councillors sent brief & scheme for comment 3.6 External consultation and communication
▼
Agreed with Consultation Manager (in Poilcy and Design) Consultation over
OR
Inform 2 weeks in
3 week period
advance of implementation
Consultation analysis
Modifications if required
PSG
Feedback to consultees if necessary 3.7 Implementation
▼
Cabinet Member decision (if appropriate)
Arrange publicity & badging with Consultation Manager
Handover for implementation to Highways/Parks as appropriate
Liaise with scheme originator on issues & details
Discussion on site with contractor
Completion
Responsible officer to sign off
3.8 Post implementation
▼
Scheme promotion if showcase scheme
▼
Scheme review from an agreed number of angles (incl.street scene)
Interface with public realm
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
Minor Works Procedure Process
Where proposals do not represent ‘schemes’ – for example small
scale single element changes, or a departure from the Design Guide:
Minor works/proposals
▼
Discuss with Urban Design
PSG if appropriate
23
3 Procedure The Public Space Group GIS system images
3 . 3 S C H E M E I N I T I AT I O N
Schemes may come forward from various sources, including:
Transport – borough Spending Plan/ Sweltrac/etc.
Highways – in connection with maintenance requirements
Parks and Open Spaces – proposals for land managed by Parks
and Open Spaces
Urban Design/other – from conservation and other area
studies, etc.The Public Space Group may propose initiatives
Arcadia/ Thames Landscape Strategy schemes
Local initiatives – eg. Civic Pride initiatives, schemes
with local groups.
Property Services
Development Control
Schemes should normally comply with Design Guide and other
Council policy. Check relevant documents such as Conservation
area studies (see list in Appendix).The internal Geographical
Information System provides information on the location and
extent of listed buildings, Buildings of Townscape Merit,
24
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
3 Procedure Project brief conservation areas, registered parks and gardens and other
features relevant to public space projects. It is important that the
sensitivity of sites is checked before schemes are advanced
as this may lead to abortive work. Proposed schemes should
be identified on a list for consideration by the PSG.
3.4 PROJECT MANAGEMENT
All schemes whether large, medium or small need a project
manager who takes responsibility for the project outcome through
developing and managing the schedule, the team and the budget.
The project manager must write a draft project brief for all
schemes and inform the likely team.
Medium to large schemes (defined either by budget or whether
or not it is highly visible/controversial) should start with a ‘kick off ’
meeting so that the team members are aware of the need for their
involvement and can have input into the project at the outset.
For smaller schemes, team members can be informed by email.
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
25
3 Procedure 3.5 SCHEME DEVELOPMENT/
I N T E R N A L C O N S U LT A T I O N
Scheme drawings should be developed to help communicate
the proposal. Internal consultation should be carried out early
in the design stage to avoid abortive work.Additionally if others
are aware of forthcoming proposals, there may be opportunities
to tackle other issues at the location at the same time, with other
sections timing their input to an area to coincide with proposed
works, to create a greater improvement. For example lighting
and signage improvements might be carried out at the same time
as an open space upgrade.
In particular on schemes with townscape implications, it is
important that there is a ‘street scene’ input before committee
involvement so that Highways, Parks,Transport and Urban Design
issues can be considered before details of a scheme have been
decided upon.The PSG will identify schemes for further discussion
and input, and indication if it wants to see modified proposals.
Interface with the public realm
Interface with the public realm
Urban Design drawing – Kew Plaza scheme 26
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
3 Procedure Urban Design should also be notified of any proposals
in conservation areas and any proposed work which
is a departure from the Design Guide.
Committee or similar reports should incorporate the views
of PSG groups. Maintenance implications should be investigated
to identify responsibilities and ensure funding and practicality
of maintenance in relation to planting and other proposals.
Badging schemes The Cabinet Member and Ward Councillors should be sent
the brief and scheme drawings for comment.
Interface with the public realm Engineers drawing – Kew Plaza scheme P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
27
3 Procedure Types of schemes and recommendations on how to communicate with the public Type of work (Section responsible
for project management)
Large street scene refurbishments
(Urban Design)
Major traffic scheme installations
(Transport Planning)
Carriageway or footway repairs
(Highways)
Replacing/ upgrading parks
(Parks)
Resurfacing towpaths
(Parks)
Tree felling schemes
(Parks)
Tree planting schemes
(Parks)
Large building refurbishments
(Property Services)
Renewed lighting schemes
(Highways)
Minor traffic schemes
(Transport Planning)
Tree maintenance annual
(Parks)
Local parks/greens/towpath/
open spaces maintenance
(Parks)
Minor building repairs
(Property Services)
Minor street scene works
(Urban Design)
Minor paving repairs
(Highways)
Arcadia projects
(Urban Design)
28
Before scheme implementation
Consultation
Informing
During scheme implementation
Badging signs
Site specific signs Re-useable signs
�
�
✗
�
�
✗
✗
✗
✗
✗
✗
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
�
✗
✗
�
✗
✗
✗
✗
✗
✗
✗
�
�
�
✗
�
�
�
✗
✗
✗
�
✗
✗
✗
�
✗
✗
✗
�
✗
✗
✗
�
�
�
�
�
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
3 Procedure 3 . 6 E X T E R N A L C O N S U LT A T I O N
A N D C O M M U N I C AT I O N –
P R E - I M P L E M E N TAT I O N
All Schemes of whatever size should go through the Consultation
Manager (in Policy and Design). A decision can then be made on
what type of external consultation and communication is required
at each stage of the project. It will also ensure that Council
standards on Equalities and Diversities as well as Freedom of
Information are met.
Consultation or informing or both?
Who do we need to communicate with? When? (pre-implementation, during or after?) Which method(s) of consultation or informing to be used? (see below) What resources are available? Consultation letter
and newsletters
Possible methods of consultation or informing to be used
Directed consultation letters to stakeholders
Door drop delivery of letters, questionnaires, newsletters,
personal visits (usually businesses only)
Working groups or focus groups
Formal specifc meetings, drop-in sessions, exhibitions,
attendance at existing meetings
Fairs or event attendance
The Council website, Council magazine “Arcadia”,
local press-advertising or press release, community media
On-site posters, the Community noticeboard.The size of
poster will depend on who we are aiming at. (eg. road users
will require an A2 board with a larger type size)
Council website consultation
Badging
Agree on-site badging sign requirements for implementation
of scheme. (see 3.7)
Publicity
Decisions should be made at this stage on whether or not the
scheme is likely to be of sufficient importance to be promoted
at any stage. Also will there be a celebratory event or
submission for an award? (see 3.8)
Drop-in sessions
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
29
3 Procedure Badging – use of
artist’s impression
Badging – London’s
Arcadia
Badging – re-usable sign
3 . 7 I M P L E M E N TAT I O N
Which sections implement schemes?
Schemes on Highway land are normally implemented through the Highways Management Group or Transport Planning. Those schemes on Parks and Open Spaces land are managed by the Parks section. If during construction it is necessary to make changes which have streetscape implications, Urban Design should be notified. This includes changes to planting proposals as well as Highways matters. How are schemes promoted on site?
Badging works on the ground with site specific or re-usable is being used successfully to inform the public of the type of work which is taking place and why, and where appropriate how long it will take.The sign has a standard London Borough of Richmond upon Thames template for the layout/design which should be adhered to. 30
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
3 Procedure Badging – site specific sign Fair attendance
York stone If a scheme is particularly disruptive or will take a long time then
it may be necessary to send out further correspondence to
stakeholders /residents /businesses and amenity groups.
Materials
It is important that arrangements are made to ensure that items
ordered for projects are safely stored for that job, to avoid those
materials being used for other jobs and having to be reordered.
It may be worthwhile to keep spares available for some projects
and for example to order over what is needed for York stone and
similar paving.
Reordering times should be considered to avoid long delays
when items are damaged.
It is important to establish that statutory undertakers implement
any planned changes before rather than after paving and other
improvement schemes.
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
31
3 Procedure 3 . 8 P O S T I M P L E M E N TAT I O N
Schemes should be reviewed post implementation to identify
any lessons to be learned.This will include auditing by the project
engineer, to include safety considerations, but also a street scene
audit by the PSG.The PSG will decide which schemes to select
for this.
The completion of a showcase scheme should be celebrated
with a stakeholder event and publicity using the local press,
Council Magazine, Arcadia and Council website
(www.richmond.gov.uk). Schemes should be reviewed post
implementation and presented to the Public Space Forum
so that lessons can be learnt.
A decision on whether to submit schemes for awards will
be taken by the PSG.
Scheme launch – press cutting TFL awards 32
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
3 Procedure 3 . 9 PA R T N E R O R G A N I S AT I O N S
The Council is not the only organisation responsible for the street
scene and public realm. Other organisations involved include:
Transport for London – primary roads (A205 & A306).Transport
for London (TfL) has produced its own design guidance but it is
important that measures relate to the specific environment of this
borough. Particularly important will be the interface between areas
of TfL and borough responsibility. It is important that liaison takes
place on design issues related to TfL works. Parts of the TfL area
of responsibility are through particularly sensitive areas such as Kew
Green and the Old Deer Park. Streetscape design on TfL roads
throughout the borough should relate as far as possible to design
standards promoted in this Guide.
It is envisaged that there will be TfL/Council collaboration on
streetscape enhancement schemes on TfL roads in the borough.
Statutory undertakers – utility boxes, telephone call boxes etc.
have a considerable bearing on the appearance of the street
scene and it is important that proposals do not detract from it.
Paving reinstatement after excavations is an important street
scene consideration also affecting Parks and Open Spaces.
Private – potential sources of street scene problems are private
company phone boxes, phone masts, advertising hoardings and
utility companies and their equipment.
TFL road
Unsympathetic private phone box P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
33
3 Procedure Unsympathetic interface between
public and private
3 . 1 0 I N T E R FAC E O F P U B L I C
A N D P R I V AT E R E A L M
Full access for those with disabilities and mobility difficulties will
be required in planning applications for many classes of
development. Whilst the quality of buildings is obviously a key
factor in the street scene, the handling of boundaries and spaces
between buildings and the public realm, where applicable, has a
considerable impact on the overall quality of the environment.
Good treatment of such areas will be encouraged through the
planning system and other measures, such as addressing these
spaces as a part of environmental enhancement schemes.
Private forecourts often abut areas of paving improvements
and the improvement of these areas will be encouraged
in relation to adjoining improvement schemes.‘Badging’
of private developments indicating details of what is being
constructed on site hoardings is encouraged.
34
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
3 Procedure Street advertising can detract
Private forecourts to shops and similar buildings often function
as extensions of the public footway and have a major impact
on the appearance of shopping areas. It is important that they
are not cluttered with items which can detract from the street
scene, for example trolley stores and poorly designed external
ramps. Freestanding advertising columns will be resisted.
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
35
4 Floorscape – Surfacing 4.1 GENERAL PRINCIPLES
The main aims should be simplicity of design and layout,
and overall quality, bearing in mind maintenance considerations,
and cost limitations.The best of existing older paving should
be retained where ever possible. A clear design strategy
is needed at the outset of repaving schemes, and larger or
key schemes. It is important that one person is responsible
for design decisions.
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
37
4 Floorscape 4.2 PROBLEMS
Fussy mixtures of paving materials and colour are to be avoided
as they almost always result in poor townscape.
Other issues include:
Footway ‘build outs’ in a different material to the main footway
look poor;‘build outs’ are generally not recommended –
see under para. 4.6 below.
Crossover materials not related to the footway detract from
the streetscape
Coloured materials are generally out of place for use as paving
in this borough
Too many materials in one place creating poor streetscape
Poor utilities work
Tactile paving and other materials at odd angles to the main
paving
Opportunities not taken to use higher quality materials
Poor attention to detail by access covers, posts and other
obstructions
Access related problems such as uneven materials and
upstands on crossovers. Build outs in different material Too many materials 38
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
4 Floorscape 4.3 GUIDELINES
In urban locations, where possible, use traditionally sized slabs.
Where funding allows,York stone is recommended for key areas.
For other areas reinforced slabs should be considered where
there is a danger of vehicle damage. This will reduce the need
for bollards and other obstructions.
4 . 4 C O N S E R V AT I O N
Historic paving elements should always be retained within
schemes where possible. Examples are areas of granite setts/
kerbs and York stone paving/kerbs.
Historic granite paving Historic York Stone and brick paving P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
39
4 Floorscape York stone paving 4 . 5 F O O T WAY S U R F A C I N G
The main materials in use are summarised below:
York stone
The best choice for key schemes used in urban areas and also
in Central Richmond to replace red brick. Colour of York stone
according to location- it can reinforce local distinctiveness.
Grey and slight buff tones are used.
York stone setts
Sawn finish – rather than riven paving is to be used.
Reclaimed York stone paving is acceptable in certain historic
locations (i.e. Richmond Green).
Stone setts – these are useful for detailing in association
with areas of York stone, and they may also be used for smaller
scale areas of paving.
A sealant is used to reduce the impact of staining from
chewing gum etc.
Detail in laying is very important:
Gaps between slabs should be within 10mm Small individual pieces of paving are to be avoided Recessed access covers to utilities should be provided and the paving taken as close to the cover as possible.Wide areas of mortar should be avoided; any mortar should match the colour of the paving. Angled cutting by access covers may look neater than straight cutting. 40
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
4 Floorscape Traffic islands (before and after) Traditional paving slabs (ASP)
Granite setts & kerbs
Good for loading bays, crossovers etc.
Traffic islands – Use granite kerbs wherever possible and
100mm3 granite setts, rather than tarmac or concrete blocks
Pub hatches – Smooth granite kerbs are easier to walk over
Granite kerbs and drainage channels – These should always
be retained where they already exist
Granite kerbs should always be used in conservation areas.
Elsewhere their use should be considered
Dropped kerbs should provide a smooth join with no upstand.
Traditional paving slabs (ASP)
This is preferred to other forms of non-natural paving especially
in conservation areas. Consideration should be given to reinforced
slabs where vehicle overriding is anticipated. Slab paving is
normally laid with joints that are pointed up.The joints should be
within 13mm.The Council is currently experimenting with butt
jointed reinforced slabs. It is preferable that these are rectangular
in shape in order to replicate the traditional pattern of paving flags.
In some situations it may be possible to relay older slabs that
tend to have a more appealing surface texture.These should
be grouped in areas rather than mixed with new slabs as the
sizes may be slightly different.
Small element paving slabs
The scale of these slabs does not work well on wide footways
but can be used on narrower footways where black/ sand carpet
finishes might otherwise be used. Colour should always be grey.
Half slabs rather than concrete blocks should be used to achieve
the bonding pattern.
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
41
4 Floorscape Concrete blocks/ bricks
Red brick paving is discontinued except for localised maintenance
of existing paving. Coloured concrete blocks are not to be used.
Grey concrete blocks are generally only used for detail areas in
association with small element paving.They are normally not to
be used for footway build outs.
Gravel
Sealed gravel – This has worked well as a towpath material. It is
laid on a bituminous surface and has been used to upgrade
existing bituminous footways. Care should be taken to ensure
that the type of sealed gravel chosen is appropriate for its use;
some are not suitable for vehicle movements and some can give
too urban an appearance in some settings. Suitability for disabled
access should be checked.
Heritage and Natratex finishes have both been used successfully
but tend to give a different appearance to one another. Heritage
paving has been used to upgrade footways in Ham and
Petersham. Natratex has been used on verges and around tree
pits where other paving has become disturbed.
Small element paving slabs
Sealed gravel
Breedon gravel – This surfacing provides a less urban character
and is particularly appropriate in open areas.The material has
been used for paths across Richmond Green. It is also used as a
surfacing material for tree pits. Maintenance implications needs to
be born in mind.
Breedon gravel
Cycle and footpath in Natratex finish 42
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
4 Floorscape Bituminous/sand carpet
This type of surfacing is comparatively low cost and can
subsequently be upgraded to a sealed gravel surface, as has been
done in Ham and Petersham.
Sand carpet includes crushed gravel rolled into the surface.
Reinstatement works can make the surface look untidy.
Charcoal tactile paving
Tactile paving
This is a difficult element to incorporate into the street scene.
There are two particular problems in relation to the street scene:
colour and orientation.
It is proposed that tactiles should normally be in a grey finish,
or inYork stone when set in an area of stone paving. Charcoal tactiles
may be used where there are particular safety implications.
York stone tactile paving
Red tactiles are particularly ugly, and coloured ones generally
have a negative visual effect. An exception is the use of buff tactile
paving in areas of sealed gravel footway as has been used in Ham
and Petersham.
‘Tails’ should be limited in length as this is another disruptive
element. No concrete block surround should be used when
installing tactile paving. Inset utility covers must be used where
appropriate.
Buff tactile paving
Avoid odd angles The orientation of the tactile paving to the main paving is critical.
Odd angles are very detrimental to the street scene and should
be avoided. In new schemes it may be necessary to alter kerb
lines to avoid this problem. This needs to be addressed at the
initial design stage, not on site with the slabs ready to be installed.
Avoid long tails on tactile paving P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
43
4 Floorscape Obtrusive traffic control utility boxes Avoid jumbo boxes
CCTV jumbo bases
Utility boxes
These should be sited unobtrusively at the back of the footway,
and painted in a dark colour to relate to adjoining street
furniture.‘Jumbo’ boxes are to be avoided.
Traffic light control boxes
The possibility of locating electrical gear in a less obtrusive way
is being investigated.Where this is not possible they should be sited
as unobtrusively as possible, related to other items of street
furniture if appropriate, and painted to match the surrounding
colour of street furniture. Use only one box where possible to
avoid clutter. Graffiti resistant paint should be considered. ‘Artex’
finishes are not to be used, but raised panels will reduce the risk
of flyposting.
Neatly finished manhole cover
Access covers
Recessed covers should be provided in areas of York stone paving
and in any other key paving scheme in town or local centres.
Avoid slippery material. Covers should as far as possible be aligned
with paving.Angle cutting of slab paving around covers may produce
a neater appearance.
44
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
4 Floorscape Granite crossover Pedestrian refuges 4 . 6 C A R R I A G E WAY S U R F A C I N G
The colour of the carriageway is normally black and is surfaced
in stone mastic asphalt (SMA), hot rolled asphalt or dense bitumen
macadam. SMA is prefered and this provides a quieter surface.
Consideration can be given to a sealed gravel type finish in certain
locations. This has been used onTwickenham Riverside.
Sealed gravel
Light grey antiskid surfacing
There is a requirement to provide anti-skid surfacing at controlled
crossings and traffic signals. It is also provided at locations with
a record of skidding accidents. Grey bauxite finish is generally
preferred as it has a softer appearance than buff finish.There may
be exceptions in less urban areas.
Pedestrian refuges/ traffic islands
Traffic islands should be paved in 100mm3 granite setts. Walking surface – paving should be kept as simple as possible, and related to adjoining areas of paving. Ends of Islands – granite setts Central island columns are not normally to be installed Other issues related to pedestrian refuges are considered under Railings 5.4, Signage 6.3. P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
45
4 Floorscape Speed reduction measures
With20 mph zones,‘gateway’ features and furniture should relate
to the area in which they are situated. Painted timber has been
used in Petersham. Furniture and markings should be minimised.
Speed humps should not generally be considered except for in
the vicinity of school entrances as a part of a school safety zone.
‘Virtual’ speed humps should not be used. Footway ‘build outs’ are
generally not to be used unless there is a strong safety case
or in connection with retaining mature trees.They are particularly
intrusive where they result in paving at a different angle to the
main footway paving.
Carriageway marking
The great array of road markings in various colours has a highly
negative impact on the street scene.The following measures are
proposed to help alleviate this situation:
Yellow lines – 50mm wide deep cream coloured lines to be used
in all situations, regardless of existing width & colour.This colour
should also be used for any loading markings on kerbs.
Avoid deep indentations which can cause cycles to swerve.
20 mph zone in Ham and Petersham
Bus lanes – the aim should be to design bus lanes and cages, which
operate effectively without the need to use coloured surfacing.
Where a coloured surface is considered the only option to achieve
the effective operation the proposal should be referred to the
Public Space Group. In such cases red stone mastic asphalt material
should be used as it avoids the surface wearing off and is less
strident in colour.
Narrow yellow lines
Unacceptable hatch road markings 46
P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
4 Floorscape Cycle lanes
These should not have a coloured surface.White lines painted on
the footway are to be avoided. Any symbols required should be
on the ground or fixed to bollards/ existing posts.
Hatching & other road markings
Hatch road markings should be reduced to a minimum.They are
often used extensively around pedestrian refuges and similar and
can be so complex that they are unintelligible to road users
as well as being highly disruptive to the streetscape. If necessary
a ‘relaxation’ should be sought. A raised area of granite setts and
kerbs may provide a more attractive alternative to diagonal lines.
Uncoloured bus lanes
Yellow hatch makings should only be used where this is
essential.
‘Dragon’s teeth’ hatching (triangular warning markings)
are also ugly and the need for them should be minimised
as much as possible
Hatch markings around corners at the ends of roads can be
very ugly and should only be used in exceptional
circumstances. Other measures should be sought to prevent
parking here.
Crossovers
A crossover policy has been agreed. Normally crossovers should
be constructed in the same materials as the main footway.
Some areas of the borough are characterised by granite crossovers
(granite setts with bands of granite kerbs).The use of such
crossovers will be encouraged in such areas and more generally
in conservation areas.
Uncoloured cycle lanes
Histroric crossover P U B L I C S PA C E D E S I G N G U I D E
47