Ideas from elsewhere

Java Island, Amsterdam

What we can learn from this

People who wish to live with a boat on their doorstep can do so, but can live more sustainably as they live in a high density area, with the area being walkable. Additionally, there’s the option of being able to live with a boat on their doorstep at more affordable prices. People also have easy access to public transport, with tram route 7 connecting Java Island with Amsterdam City Centre and its major tourist attractions such as the Rijksmuseum

Key features

Reminiscent of Medieval Europe
High density
Canals
Diverse types of buildings - adding variety
Also includes affordable housing
Tram route terminates in the development
Has a beach, and area is becoming increasingly popular for sunbathing
There are nine beautiful wrought-iron, artist-designed bridges scattered across Java-Eiland

Dublin Waterfront, Ireland

What we can learn from this

The ideal type of development if we want to attract tourists and give the area an active life with plenty of different uses. The Dublin Waterfront is a good example of a destination for cultural activities, as well as sporting activities.

Key features

Culture-led regeneration
Tourist attractions: has museums (such as the EPIC The Irish Emigrant Museum), The Irish Family History Centre
Home to a recording studio, with famous celebrities such as Lady Gaga having used it in the past
Popular water activities such as kayaking are common
Easily accessible by public transport - Luas Red Line tram, DART (Pearse & Grand Canal Dock Stations) commuter rail
Up to 366,000 square metres of office space and 2,600 new homes

Case Study exemplars

Hafen City
Hamburg

Key features

Hafencity is a perfect example of sustainable, mixed-use development future proofed for the impacts of climate change (as seen by the development being 8-9m above sea levels). The development is meeting as many needs of the population as possible, including the idea of providing 7,500 new homes and 45,000 jobs. It is also easily accessible, not only thanks to metro (U-Bahn) line U4 running underneath the development, but also being within a walkable distance from the city centre, and therefore, Hamburg’s major tourist attractions.

Key features

The development has been a property led form of regeneration and is a global destination
Although some argue that the development caters only to high income groups
Maritime features
Mixed-use development - combines workplace with residential uses, education and culture
Improving ecological sustainability
High-quality public spaces
Economic sustainability
Central location - located south of the city centre
Easily accessible by public transport - U-Bahn (Metro) line U4 passes underneath the development
The whole area has been raised up to 8-9m in levels, and therefore is resilient to the effects of climate change (particularly flooding)
The development aims to provide 7,500 new homes, 45,000 new jobs, as well as leisure amenities and educational facilities. When completed, 80,000 visitors are expected in the area
Red clinker brick will be used in order to reflect the architectural characteristics
The development is trying to meet high architectural standards
This development aims to promote sustainability, including walking, cycling, e-mobility and car sharing

New building using red clinker brick

Trinity Buoy Wharf

Trinity Buoy Wharf is another example of culture led regeneration. Being a centre for arts and cultural activities located on the River Thames, the area is home to a thriving community of over 500 people (mainly artists, photographers and design-markers) and is home to many cultural organisations, such as the English National Opera and The Big Draw. This is an inspiration for our vision of developing a destination for the arts and culture with facilities for the arts which will help draw people to the area and connect with the local community.

Royal Albert Dock is an example of culture-led regeneration. Home to a variety of museums, art galleries and exhibitions, as well as shops and restaurants, this made Royal Albert Dock Liverpool’s number one tourist attraction. This inspired our vision on creating a destination for the arts and culture.