The Place Principles
Consultation with local people started in 2012, with a period of analysis and public engagement, which revealed that certain areas of the Alton Estate were not working to their full potential. The day-to-day needs of residents have changed since the 1950s and a number of placemaking and streetscape lessons have been learnt since the Alton Estate was created.
The regeneration masterplan and identification of the key areas for intervention and change derived from public engagement through a series of workshops and the subsequent design principles have emerged over years of consultation.
The six placemaking principles, underpinning the design, which came from this engagement are:
Strengthening Focal Points
By making shared spaces with greater purpose and personality, including the new Village Square and Portswood Place.
Mending the Urban Fabric
Public spaces to have more character and active streets that link the Estate to Roehampton Village and Alton East.
Greater Permeability, Legibility and Connections
Creating improved views and routes into and across the estate, particularly from north to south where there are height differences.
Strengthening the Outer Edges and Retaining a ‘Green Buffer’
Providing more building frontage for stronger edge along Roehampton Lane, while retaining the trees and greenery that provide separation from traffic.
Activating the Landscape
Creating a varied programme of new activities within the landscape, to maximise use and enjoyment of it.
Revealing and Creating Landmarks
The opening up of new views of existing landmarks like St Joseph’s Church, while creating new landmark buildings at key locations like the Village Square and Portswood Place.