The New Public Square

The New Public Square is central to the success of the scheme. In late 2009, Scape Design Associates were appointed to design the public square after a specially convened judging panel, and over 500 members of the pubic who attended a public exhibition, chose their designs over two others as their favourite. Scape then met local groups, including those concerned with disabled access, to ensure that the final design was easily accessible to all members of the community.

The public square design has evolved to provide a vibrant focal point for the community and flexible space which can be used in a variety of different ways, including as a backdrop for a variety of community and arts activities, and as a social and meeting place, but at the same time includes defined features to give it a clear sense of identity. Events including an outdoor cinema in summer, Christmas ice rink and markets all year round could take place in the new public square and interest has already been shown from a number of outdoor cinema operators. We are also proposing to reinstate the steps which used to lead up to the front of the Town Hall which will provide an informal auditorium area looking out into the square.

The public square integrates closely with the raised walkway to the bridge over Furnival Gardens, providing easy access to all parts of the scheme. The design of the raised walkway and the steps up to the Town Hall have also been conceived to ensure disabled access to the new Council offices and One Stop Shop is as convenient as possible.