Plan2003 Urban Design Portfolio - Greg Kitson and Alex Camargo
-
Upload
ismael-alejandro-munoz -
Category
Documents
-
view
28 -
download
0
description
Transcript of Plan2003 Urban Design Portfolio - Greg Kitson and Alex Camargo
0
CAMARGO‐KITSON
URBAN DESIGN CONSULTANTS
BRISBANCE CITY CATALYST PROJECT
ROMA STREET TRANSFORMATION
Presented by: Mr Alex Camargo and Mr Greg Kitson
1
Table of Contents
Executive Summary ................................................................................................................................... 2
1.0 Vision .................................................................................................................................................. 3
2.0 Introduction to Roma Street ................................................................................................................ 4
2.1 Project Brief – Roma Street Transformative Area .................................................................................................... 4
2.2 Urban Design Process and Methodology ................................................................................................................. 5
3.0 Urban Design Tasks ............................................................................................................................. 6 3.1 Task One – Contextual Analysis ................................................................................................................................ 6
3.1.1 Brief Background – Roma Street .................................................................................................................... 6
3.1.2 Brief Background Information ‐ Brisbane Transit Centre ............................................................................... 8
3.1.3 Maps and Plans – Roma Street Area .............................................................................................................. 9
3.2 Task Two – Spatial Analysis .................................................................................................................................... 13
3.3 Task Three – Stakeholder Analysis ......................................................................................................................... 25
3.4 Task Four – Concept Plan Development ................................................................................................................. 27
3.5 Task Five – Urban Design Development Roma Street ‐ Recommendation ............................................................ 34
4.0 Summary and Conclusion .................................................................................................................. 35
5.0 Reference List .................................................................................................................................... 36
6.0 Appendices ........................................................................................................................................ 37
List of Figures
Figure 1 – Historical images of Roma Street ............................................................................................... 6
Figure 2 – Roma Street and Roma Street Railway Station .......................................................................... 7
Figure 3 – Brisbane Transit Centre ............................................................................................................. 8
Figure 4 ‐ Synthesised Contextual Analysis of Roma Street ...................................................................... 14
Figures 5 ‐ 8 ............................................................................................................................................. 17
Figures 9 ‐ 12 ........................................................................................................................................... 18
List of Tables
Table 1 ‐ Five Key Tasks for Submission ................................................................................................... 18
2
Executive Summary
This report delivers a comprehensive analysis and spatial assessment of Roma Street in Brisbane
City and delivers a design option for the transformation of the area. Firstly, this report identifies
vital background information to ensure the area is correctly defined. Secondly, the vision and
development objectives, prescribed by Brisbane City Council, are outlined to provide a sense of
direction for the design option. The report outlines and discusses the critical steps to managing a
successful urban design project. Lastly, the report offers options for the redevelopment of Roma
Street as a Catalyst Project and aligns the optimal design with the desired outcomes referred to in
the City Master Plan for Brisbane.
The investigations and analysis of Roma Street discovered that many of sites current planning
issues can be resolved and the solutions offered can assist to transform the area into a new focal
point for the Central Business District and lead to a better City which residents are happy to live in.
The recommendations made by Camargo‐Kitson in this report include:
The construction of a traffic tunnel directly underneath Roma Street to re‐direct traffic
away from pedestrians and out of sight
Converting the reclaimed roadway to ‘pedestrian priority green‐street’ and a landscaping
beautification of the surface area
Incorporating green transport strategies and enhancing connectivity to Brisbane’s major
multi‐modal public transport interchange, Roma Street Station and the Brisbane Transit
Centre
Revitalising the Brisbane Transit Centre with a modern upgrade to the external street face
and refurbishment of the internal layout
Connecting the new Roma Street to the planned Cross River Rail project; and
The longer‐term strategy to cover over Roma Street Railway Station, partially enclosing the
facility, and creating a new open green space for resident and visitors to the CBD
The main limitation of this report and underlying processes is that although community surveys
were completed, this was only a very small sample of the population living in Brisbane and a short
time frame to develop plausible solutions. However, Camargo‐Kitson has strictly followed the
objectives outlined in the project brief and guidance and feedback provided by the Brisbane City
Council.
3
1.0 Vision
The new Roma Street will be Brisbane’s premiere ‘pedestrian priority green‐street’
and amplify the symbolic importance of the City’s largest transport interchange. A
welcoming sense of arrival to Australia’s most liveable city will indulge visitors and
residents in all directions.
A purpose built traffic tunnel (cut and cover) under the existing roadway, with portals along Roma
Street and at the George Street intersection with Herschel Street, will allow the activation of a
‘green‐street’ along the surface of Roma Street. The reclaimed area will support the new direction
of green infrastructure options across the city and afford a memorable and enjoyable experience
to an onward journey. A modern architectural makeover of the Brisbane Transit Centre will invite
the outdoors inside, providing a seamless visual connection for travellers.
The dynamics of the tree lined streetscape with modern environmentally friendly built form and
redirected traffic will reignite Roma Street and the Brisbane Transit Centre as an exciting focal
point of the western fringe and newest landmark for the city. An exciting destination, the new
Roma Street will support and reinforce the objectives of other city centre catalyst projects by:
revitalising buildings and creating new memorable outdoor areas
improving links and enhancing integration of the public transport network
freeing pedestrian and traffic interaction for seamless access and movement
supporting active transport options through the vital corridor and onwards; and
showcasing an inviting balance of private and public space
The longer‐term vision to build over Roma Street Railway station and create a new green area will
enhance connectivity between Roma Street Parklands and Southbank, via the Kurilpa Bridge. This
new open green space will reflect the City’s sub‐tropical look and feel. Interacting with the Cross
River Rail Project and planned portals, this new green space will support the sense of arrival at the
gateway to the city centre.
4
2.0 Introduction to Roma Street
This section provides relevant information about the ‘Catalyst Project Brief’ from the Brisbane City
Council; brief information about Roma Street and the Brisbane Transit Centre (BTC); and a brief
summary of the urban design process and activities undertaken to create the transformative area
and new Roma Street.
2.1 Project Brief – Roma Street Transformative Area
Shortly, Brisbane City Council (BCC) will release a new City Centre Master Plan to guide
development and renewal of the Central Business District. In October 2012, BCC approved the
new Vision for the CCMP, “Our Vision: Open City, Outdoor: Accessible: Inviting: Free” (Brisbane
City Council 2012). At present, BCC is hosting a design and ideas festival, concluding in May.
Design professionals, students and residents are invited to consider new innovative ideas and
propose concepts that will renew and improve 16 transformative sites in the City Centre, including
Roma Street (Brisbane City Council 2013). The overall objectives for this project are as follows:
(Brisbane City Council 2013)
to humanize the arrival experience between Roma street station and the rest of the city by providing clear, sage and attractive connections
to explore opportunities for architectural transformation of the transit centre
to produce concepts that inspire and capture the public imagination as well as stimulating discussion and debate about opportunities to transform City Centre
to provide an overall vision and direction on the identified transformative areas and produce concepts for use in the City Centre Master Plan document
to produce high quality graphics oriented towards a general audience that clearly capture the key ideas and city shaping opportunities of the scheme
(Brisbane City Council 2013)
Consultants are required to provide two outputs with their submission in the form of:
A1 size poster which that includes: ‐ Design Vision/Rationale ‐ approximately 300 words ‐ Concept Plan ‐ An overall plan (plan or aerial) ‐ Before and after graphics/picture ‐ Supporting graphics (sketches, perspectives, cross section etc) ‐ Specifications of final deliverables to be provided as follows:
‐ Posters should be legible at a distance of approximately 3 metres ‐ A high resolution (600dpi) .jpg files to enable reuse in the Master Plan document or displayed on Council’s website, media releases and other market collateral
A4 size Urban Design Project Folio that includes: ‐ a holistic and integrated composition of the collated materials from the five tasks described in Table 1 ‐ a design vision, concept plan, before and after view depicting priority project outcomes ‐ other supporting presentation graphics as evidence showing the achievement of the set criteria for the assessment and including a conclusion and recommendations.
5
(Brisbane City Council 2013) Table 1 – Five Key Tasks for Submission
Task Description
1 identify the site conduct an assessment of how people are using space to assist in raising your own questions and hypotheses about the issues and challenges facing a specific urban area/space
document observations and perceptions about the physical environment
appraise the existing context. 2 contextualise the urban design problem present various parameters of the project
project through maps and analysis 3 identify various stakeholders and elicit their issues and concerns through appropriate
methodology (i.e. interview, focus group to elicit views and opinions) and determine how this may affect design schemes and options
4 based on the results of the various analyses, develop a concept plan and integral theme for the urban design
5 develop the urban design proposal for the chosen site
(Brisbane City Council 2013)
2.3 Urban Design Process and Methodology
The urban design process and methodology undertaken by Camargo‐Kitson to produce the
concept plan for Roma Street aligns with the instructions prescribed by the BCC (refer to section
2.1) and all tasks were carried out during March and April 2013. To better understand the BCC’s
desired outcomes for Roma Street and to enhance design options and planning, the following list
of documents were reviewed and consulted for guidance:
A Vision for our City: City Master Plan 2012
Graphics in the urban design process: Chapters 1 to 6
The Urban Design Guidance Manual
Creating Places for People: An Urban Design Protocol for Australian Cities
Brisbane City Centre Planning Strategy: Building a Liveable City Heart
Google Maps – specifically Roma Street and surrounds
Historical information in relation to land‐use at the site
Brisbane City Council Website The purpose for reviewing these documents is to ensure best practice during the design process and to:
align to existing development policies for Roma Street as prescribed by the BCC
review earlier decisions from consultation completed by the BCC in relation to the area
ensure that the optimal design developing Roma Street development is carried out in accordance with Australian urban design guidelines
planning history of the area and existing features of the area
identification of development constraints (desktop audit)
local initiatives (Ideas Fiesta)
realise the importance of the area
6
3.0 Urban Design Tasks
This section provides a brief statement in relation to the each of the five tasks and activities
undertaken to complete each task.
3.1 Task One – Contextual Analysis
Camargo‐Kitson understands contextual analysis to be a desktop site location identification
exercise that includes a brief history of the area, a sequence of maps and plans with an
accompanying short appraisal that describes the area and includes data collected from early
observations.
To identify the location of Roma Street, a brief history of the Roma Street Area and Brisbane
Transit Centre is summarised. Also, a series of maps illustrating the local and strategic context of
the site were sourced and developed using Google maps.
3.1.1 Brief Background – Roma Street
The very early history of Roma Street and the surrounding is documented with evidence of
Aboriginal populations and culture and early European settlers witnessed large gatherings of
various Aboriginal tribes for ceremonial purposes. In 1825, land use was dramatically altered by
the establishment of the Moreton Bay Penal Colony. The area was eventually subdivided by 1840
and over time was used for various purposes including an orphanage, farming, saleyards, produce
markets, Brisbane Grammar School and eventually the construction of the Roma Street Railway
Station and Rail Yard in 1911, seen in Figure 1 (Queensland Government 2004).
(Bonzle 2013)
Figure 1 ‐ Roma Street Station and Rail Yards in the late 1800s. To the right, the original Roma Street Railway Station remains at the exisiting site, although it is boxed in by the Brisbane Transit Centre and new Railway Infrastructre. To the left, the very early stages of the railway yards, the picture provides context of the large parcel of land.
7
Prior to an extensive exaction to flatten the area for rail infrastructure, the site was characterised
by very steep slopes. The artificial escarpment from the early excavation is visible at the boundary
of the rail yards with Albert Park. Roma Street Railway station is the major terminus for
Brisbane’s metropolitan and Queensland’s long‐distance rail network. Although, the station
infrastructure covers only the south east corner of this very large parcel of crown land
(Queensland Government 2004). Today, the dominant land uses at the site are Roma Street,
Roma Street Railway Station, Roma Street Parklands, Brisbane Transit Centre and the Queensland
Police Head Headquarters, as seen in figure 2 (Queensland Government 2004).
Figure 2 ‐ Roma Street and Roma Street Railway Station
Figure 2 clearly shows the
dominant land uses for
the Roma Street area.
The land parcel for Rail
Infrastructure is large and
un‐inviting. This area is
well hidden at street view
from Roma Street by the
BTC. However, the view
shown is from Albert
Street to the North which
connects to the Roma
Street parklands. The
contrast between the two
land uses is stark and
inconsistent.
The view of Roma Street
is very plain and
dominated by concrete
structures and bitumen.
The street can only be
described as bare and
baron and hardly worth
visiting, unless you are in
transit. Hardly the
desired welcome to the
8
3.1.2 Brief Background Information ‐ Brisbane Transit Centre
Opened in 1986, the Brisbane Transit Centre (BTC) is a purpose built multi‐modal transport hub
located on Roma Street and is the gateway to Roma Street Railway station and Roma Street
Busway Station. The BTC incorporates two commercial office towers, retail shops, eatery, car park
and a coach terminal that partially covers the railway station. In 2008, The Brisbane City Council
approved the site for redevelopment and for the construction of twin towers up to 33 storeys and
refurbishment to the internal facilities (Brisbane Transit Centre 2013).
Figure 3 ‐ Brisbane Transit Centre 2013 (Brisbane Transit Centre 2013)
Figure 4 illustrates the BTC’s
domination of the Roma Street
area and Streetscape. The
early construction indicates
the imposing height and length
of the building and its rise as a
focal point of the area.
Construction in 1986, and
heralded as a turning point in
the history of the site and
residents welcomed the
completion of a, then, modern
facility to welcome visitors to
the growing Brisbane’s
growing City Centre
(Queensland Government
2004).
The building surface is
comprised of concrete in the
bottom floors and coated with
a rough ‘exposed aggregate
concrete’ texture. The top
floors are tinted glass and
steel. The building aligns with
Roma Street and creates the
northern frame for the
streetscape. However, the
structure is no 26 years of age
minimal upgrading has
occurred. Today, the building
hosts the original internal
décor and external facia.
Overall, the structure is
considered dull and cheap in
9
3.1.3 Maps and Plans – Roma Street Area
Roma Street, Basic Plan
Map one illustrates the location of Roma Street from a birds‐eye view and the shows the sites
relationship and connectivity to other major sites in Brisbane City. Illustrated in red, it is made
clear that, as a central site, Roma Street is considered as a major starting point to several other
key destinations within the City Centre, including Suncorp Stadium, Roma Street Parklands, City
Botanical Gardens, Central Station and the inner CBD.
The area is located at western fringe of the CBD, adjacent to the Brisbane River before it
straightens and meanders away toward the inner Western suburbs.
10
Roma Street, Strategic Context
(Google Maps)
Map two identifies the location of Roma Street in a strategic context to the surrounding city. The
large yellow circle indicates a ten kilometre radius from the City Centre and the red dot indicates
that Roma Street is in fact in the Central Heart of metropolitan Brisbane. The facilities offered at
the site (described earlier) and the central location reinforces the importance of the area and
ongoing role as a major destination from all directions of the sprawling metropolitan areas of
Brisbane.
Recognising the areas importance is a strong factor to influencing the urban re‐design of the site
and its many features. However, the centrality of the area should not become the dominant
factor in the identity of the new Roma Street. Relph (1976) argues that places should be
interesting in their own right and not for their location. Also, that improved knowledge of a place,
area and site will assist to manipulate it to a re‐created expression of its inhabitants (Carmona,
Tiesdell 2007). The main issue identified in the contextual analysis is, at present, the area and site
are used only as a point of re‐distribution of travellers. There is almost nil opportunity for
residents to stay on site for extended periods and an un‐pleasant arrival for commuters and
visitors and certainly not one to advertise the CBD as a modern, sub‐tropical liveable City Centre.
11
Roma Street, Local Context A
(Google Maps)
Roma Street, Local Context B
12
Roma Street, Local Context C
Again, maps three, four and five identify the location of Roma Street in context the Brisbane
Central Business District (CBD). Each illustrate main roads, adjacent buildings, green space, traffic
intersections and disconnected open space immediately at the site or nearby. Map five the clearly
identifies the areas of opportunity that exist along Roma Street and adjacent to the site. The data
collected and during the site visits and the location appraisals has allowed identification of a
number of preliminary issues for consideration of the optimal design for transforming the area,
they include:
Pedestrian movement and numbers (high frequency)
Traffic issues and Parking capacity
Lack of safe bicycle route along Roma Street
Capital for redevelopment
Restricted development as prescribed in the current Brisbane City Master Plan
Maintaining the site as a mixed‐use zone
Lack of open space (green areas) and social amenities
13
3.2 Task Two – Spatial Analysis
Camargo‐Kitson understands spatial analysis to be an extension to the contextual analysis and a
more focussed assessment of the quality of the space and area to assist in developing appropriate
strategies to deliver changes and enhancements. During March and April, using appropriate skills ,
Camargo‐Kitson conducted field visits to Roma Street to collect data through observation and
document the physical environment using a series of maps and synthesised observations that:
define the area boundaries
identify issues
understand the place
define local character (old and new)
identify needs
capture evidence for future planning potential
consider development potential
engage with the community
immersion
(Placecheck 2013) To maximise the objectives of the field visits and to capture all relevant information, Camargo‐Kitson developed a field Observation Plan (refer to Appendix 1) and Observation Template. The template captures information in relation to:
Traffic
built form
pedestrian behavior
footpath access
land use
noise/sensory
location aesthetics
footpath access
roads
public transport
amenities and landmark
Relevant maps, photographs and observation details were synthesised into a single diagram at
figure five on the following page. Figure five represents the dominant land uses along Roma
Street movement of pedestrians along and across the roadway and footpaths. Pedestrians and
traffic can be seen interacting and groups of people congregating on the footpath. A major
criticism of the current streetscape is the lack of landscaping, outdoor seating, public amenities
and landmarks that memorable landmarks. Also, Camargo‐Kitson synthesised the results of the
field observations into a single document. Photographs on pages 17 and 18 visually identify and
provide comments on the many issues identified at Roma Street. Coupled with the observation
syntheses, a series of 12 maps/illustrations were completed identify the areas:
green spaces
open spaces
pedestrian links
footpaths and bicycle access
opportunities and constraints
key areas for redevelopment
strategic transport links
roads layout
land uses
built form
14
Figure 4 – Synthesised Contextual Analysis of Roma Street
15
SYNTHESISED FIELD OBSERVATION WORKSHEET GROUP: Alex Camargo and Greg Kitson SITE: Brisbane Transit Centre/Roma Street (including Roma St Rail & Bus stations) DATE: March 2013 – Various Times WEATHER: Sunny/Cloudy/Rain Showers OBSERVATION POINT: Main Entry to BTC on Roma Street, Western and Easter Ends of Roma Street, Opposite Main Entry to BTC
TRAFFIC BUILT FORM PEDESTRIANS ….High/Medium/Low traffic volumes, noise, pollution, vehicle type, bicycles Steady flow of traffic, in groups Cars, buses and delivery trucks and
vans
…low/med/high levels, age, condition Built form largely consists of concrete, glass and steel materials
Paved walkways and access points A mix of low-medium-high buildings and also a mix of ages (estimate the oldest is 100 years and the most modern under construction)
Internally, the BTC has vast areas of unused space
A large car park space
…are there workers (type), students, children, what are they doing, where are coming from, where are they going to? Estimate the numbers Office workers, backpackers,
tradespeople, general public, police, teenagers, school students, university students
Travelling home, to work, loitering, meeting, smoking, farewelling, eating, sitting, playing, crossing the road, driving and working
Mixed very young to very old, most people in 20-50 age group
Brief shower caused people to group under shelter on BTC side of Roma St
In the time spent at the site at least 200 people were observed doing the activities listed above
People were observed talking in groups, standing in silence and sitting in silence on the stairs to the BTC
There is a lack of outdoor seating
LAND USES NOISE/ SENSORY ….what are the land uses of the site and adjacent sites Mixed-use zones incorporating retail,
residential, transport corridors, office and commercial and green space/recreational
….describe the noise levels and types, feel of the site…is it saw Traffic – high noise level Pedestrian – medium noise level Construction – low noise level
The site is generally unwelcoming, un inspiring, dated, boring and wasted space. The railway station entry is more modern looking than the BTC. The internal fit out of the BTC is like walking into a time warp and is dull. The landscaping is limited.
16
LOCATION AESTHETICS/VIEWS NATURAL ENVIRONMENT FOOTPATHS/ACCESS …is the site tidy, clean, orderly, planned well, lines of visibility, The location is fantastic, close to all
amenities of the CBD The BTC is dated, ugly and is in danger
of being an eye sore amongst the new styles of construction that are next to the site
The site enjoys high visibility on along Roma St and side streets
Internal aesthetics are reasonable, but again are very dated.
….are there any natural features, what are they? Limited landscaping in and around the
BTC Large trees line Roma Street at the CBD
end. Limited landscaping along Roma St, Makerston St and Garrick St
Emily Miller Place and Roma Street Parklands are close to the BTC (within walking distance.
The site lacks balance with built and natural environment/interaction
…describe the available space for pedestrian movement and access Footpaths are narrow at the immediate
entry to the BTC. Footpaths widen in front of QLD Police HQ and Magistrates Courts. Footpaths on the BTC side of Roma St widen at allocated City Council Bus Stop area and parallel to the BTC Car Park. Footpaths are standard along Emily Miller Place and alongside the QEII Court Buildings
Four Street Level Signalled Pedestrian Crossings exists along Roma Street
An elevated pedestrian crossing passes over Roma St connecting the Level 2 Eastern Access Point to the BTC and to Street Level on George St (where in intersects with Herschel Street).
Adequate signage exists in and around Roma St
ROADS PUBLIC TRANSPORT AMENITIES & LANDMARKS …describe roads and access points… Sealed bitumen at 6 lanes, separated by
a concreted median strip (3 lanes left and right)
Five sets of traffic signals. Four with signalled pedestrian access and one with signalled cycle access
2 side Streets (Makerston and Garrick) Roma Street is a major gateway to the
CBD and connects to roads leading to cross river locations and the internal CBD grid
….is there public transport, what type? BTC is a Major Transport Node
(Translink, private coach, cycle and foot) Roma Street Rail Station Inner Northern Busway Private Coaches (intrastate and national) Taxis Cycles (private and city cycle) Foot Traffic The Site serves as a major transfer site
to onward journeys
…what amenities exist at the site, are there any landmarks? Food Court (eatery – fast food) BTC is a landmark Roma St Station is a Landmark (houses a
heritage listed building Retail Traders Hotel (Landmark) QLD Police HQ (Landmark) Public – Toilets, Phones, Lockers, Rubbish
Bins, Bike Racks Office
17
Photographs – Roma Street March – April
Figure 5 ‐ facing east toward CBD. Buildings frame the roadway with q bare minimum of landscaping. Vehicle access dominates the landscape. The area is un‐inviting to pedestrians
Figure 6 – the western gateway to Roma Street is dominated by roadway, car parking space. Although footpath access is reasonable at this end of Roma Street, the footpath narrows significantly directly outside of the BC, one of the main congregation points.
Figure 7 – Again, concrete dominates the streetscape at pedestrian level. Although, ease of movement for pedestrians is achieved, landscaping is non‐existent, the building frontage is inactive and traffic noise and pollution makes the area unsightly.
Figure 8 ‐ Roma Street Railway Station is the dominant adjacent land use to Roma Street. Cross River Rail is planned for construction under this area. Opportunity exists to build over the station and partially cover the area with new green space
18
Photographs – Roma Street March – April
Figure 3 ‐ The BTC main entry from Roma Street is generally dated, bleak and dominated by concrete. The transition from Rail Station concourse to street is obstructed by a concrete wall. The area is small and not protected from rain and wind.
Figure 4 ‐ view across Roma Street from main entry to BTC. A six lane roadway cuts the mix of buildings and is the location of the major pedestrian crossing. Limited activity occurs on the baron streetscape, the area lacks opportunity for social interaction.
Figure 5 ‐ the internal decor and fit out of the BTC reflects the 1980s construction. The building spaces are under‐utilised and almost deserted at day and night.
Figure 6 ‐ the eastern end of Roma Street achieves a balance between natural environment and built form. Pedestrian access and bicycle movement is improved dramatically
19
Green Space ‐ Roma Street
Green Space ‐ Emma Miller Place
Public Space ‐ Roma Street
Public Space (Footpaths, Park, Plaza ‐ Brisbane Courts)
The Green Space
analysis clearly
indicates the
minimal land use
provided in the
vicinity of Roma
Street. Although,
Emma Miller Place
has public seating
and shade, the
smaller parcel of
green space is more
a public garden for
viewing and not
recommended for
recreation due to
its size and location
next to a major
hotel.
The existing amount
of open public space
indicates a small
percentage level in
comparison to the
overall Roma Street
area. The very thin
ribbon of public
space immediately at
the front of the BTC is
inadequate for the
amount of pedestrian
movement observed
at the site. The open
space at the eastern
end of Roma Street
appears to be well
connected, accessible
and walkable.
20
Strategic Pedestrian Links to Urban Area and Open Spaces – Roma Street
Strategic Pedestrian Links (e.g. King George Square, Queen St, Kurilpa Bridge)
Key Opportunities and Constraints – Roma Street
Footpaths and landscaping Brisbane Transit Centre Roma Street Railway Station
The analysis of
strategic pedestrian
links indicates that a
very high level of
pedestrian
movement along
Roma Street, George
street and Tanks
Street, to the Kuripla
Bridge. The impact on
traffic leads to traffic
congestion during
peak times. The key
factor to learn from
this analysis is to
maintain the current
level and improve the
walkability options of
at the BTC and
surrounding area.
Key opportunities are:
widen footpaths landscaping revitalise BTC develop over rail station
more mixed‐uses
creation of open public space
Key constraints are:
traffic volumes
private ownership of BTC
rail infrastructure government funding
objection from motorists
21
Areas for potential development – Roma Street
Footpaths and Cycle Paths – Roma Street
Based on the
analysis undertaken
and the already
objectives to
transform the area,
the potential areas
for development are
Roma Street, Roma
Street Railway
Station and
Infrastructure
Footpaths are located
on both sides of Roma
Street and are heavily
utilised by pedestrians
leaving the BTC. The
footpaths are
considered to be too
narrow. A dedicated
cycle path is located
along George Street.
However, the cycle
path is removed at the
intersection with
Roma Street and
Herschel Street.
22
Road infrastructure – Roma Street
Pedestrian movement – Roma Street
The analysis of road
infrastructure
indicated a six lane
roadway for Roma
Street and a four lane
roadway for George
Street. The point
where George Street
intersects with Roma
Street creates a
triangle of un‐used
space. The
convergence of the
two roads often
causes traffic issues
during peak times.
Pedestrian movement
along Roma Street
toward the BTC is
heavy during peak
times and a steady
constant outside of
peak times.
Pedestrian movement
is obstructed due to
the single crossing
point to the BTC on
Roma Street.
Pedestrian movement
is also constrained by
traffic flows from
George Street.
23
Public Transport options – Roma Street
Land use types – Roma Street
Public transport
options are abundant
at Roma Street.
Commuters can travel
by rail, bus, city cycle
and on foot. The
metropolitan, state
and interstate rail
networks, inner
northern busway, us
network, dedicated
airport connections,
inner city and
suburban cycle paths
and city footpath
network are all
options available to
residents and visitors.
Two main land uses
were identified. Land
use in the area is
dominated by
commercial activity.
There are few
residential land use
options. Some land
use was not clearly
evidenced.
24
Built Form – Roma Street
Potential solutions for redevelopment – Roma Street
Built form at Roma
Street and the
surrounds consists of
road infrastructure,
rail infrastructure,
high rise building
(above 3 floors) and
multi‐story buildings
(3 floors maximum).
The built form
materials are concrete,
steel, timber and
bitumen
A number of potential
solutions were identified
during this analysis,
including:
developing the facia and gateway to the BTC
installing a dedicated cycle path along Roma Street
Incorporation of more green space along Roma Street
Separating vehicle and pedestrian interaction along Roma Street
25
3.3 Task Three – Stakeholder Analysis
Camargo‐Kitson acknowledges that the structured involvement of all stakeholders at selected
times throughout planning process is a vital element to a successful urban design output
(Australian Government 2011).
A stakeholder analysis brief questionnaire was completed (Appendix 3) and used during interviews
with interested stakeholders. A general matrix of stakeholders was completed was developed and
considered during the design process (refer to Appendix 3). The key stakeholders identified during
the design process include:
building owners
commuters
nature and environment
financiers/banks
Queensland Government
Brisbane City Council
local residents
visitors
pedestrians
planning professionals
community interest groups
cyclists
motorists
interest groups
Queensland police
Queensland Rail
Retail Businesses
The Transcontinental Hotel
Legal Aid QLD
Traders Hotel
Telstra
Ten members of the public were interviewed for their personal views, comments and ideas in
relation to the Roma Street Transit Centre as a transformative area within the Brisbane Central
Business District. Ten interviews were completed with persons of the following details:
• Five Male • Five Female • Aged 17 – 52 • Occupation ‐ Unemployed (1), Policeman (1), Office Workers (5), Student (2) Railway worker (1) • Mode of transport ‐ Bus (3), Train (5), Car (1) and Bicycle (1)
In relation to questions one, all persons interviewed liked the idea of a renewal plan for Roma
Street. Two persons interviewed commented that “it is about time”, that this end of the City was
renewed. One person had worked in the area for eight years and commented “a new lease on life
is required in this area”.
26
All interviewees agreed that more greenery is required along Roma Street. One person made the
distinction of nearby parks to the dull look of the Transit Centre and Roma Street. Six persons
were not satisfied with pedestrian access immediately at the front of the Transit Centre. As a
suggestion, one person suggested an underground mall similar to that at Post Office Square in the
CBD heart, commenting “this could allow pedestrians and traffic to move freely and safely”.
In relation to the third question, the majority of persons interviewed were of the opinion that to
narrow the roadway to allow improved pedestrian access was a positive idea. Also, support was
given for a mix of newer buildings that allowed for residential, shopping and car parking. Two
persons did not agree with the widening of sidewalks. However, when indication was given that
this could improve more green space in the area for beautification, those opposed changed their
views to support such a strategy.
Three persons believed that any green projects for the area should be sub‐tropical to reflect the
nearby Roma Street Parklands. All believed that more trees and green space would transform the
area, making it more inviting to visit and to not neglect. Suggestions include: plants and trees in
the median strip, garden beds and trees along footpaths and even across the overhead footbridge.
The Brisbane Transit Centre and Roma Street road corridor were the two main features
interviewees would like to see redeveloped. Three interviewees cited the Roma Street Rail yards.
One person said “to demolish the transit centre and start again”. Finally, few persons were
excited to hear that the Brisbane City Council is interested in redeveloping the area. Six persons
thought that the entire area was not being used to its full potential.
27
3.4 Task Four – Concept Plan Development
Camargo‐Kitson recognises that effective urban design guidance brings together the perspectives
of people who may have a range of conflicting interests. Each of the stakeholders listed and
interviewed in section four have each provided valuable insights to the concept plan. Combining
the contextual and spatial analysis with the desires of the BCC’s design brief guided
Camargo‐Kitson to two realistic options. The main contributing factors for the options presented
below are to separate the interaction between vehicles and pedestrians and to maximise the
opportunity for more open green space along Roma Street and the surrounding area. The options
were refined during meetings with the BCC during April 2013.
Option 1 ‐ Underground pedestrian mall and tunnels
This proposal is for the construction of a purpose built pedestrian facility directly under the Roma
Street roadway. Connections to the BTC and portals along Roma Street and George Street would
allow for the seamless movement of pedestrians to and from the BTC and to onward journeys.
The underground facility would host retail opportunities and services for the general public.
On the surface, the Roma Street roadway would be narrowed to allow for the widening of
footpaths and installation of a dedicated cycle path. The narrowing of the roadway would also
allow for increased landscaping and improved pedestrian access and movement. Three
Transformative Areas are identified and the following opportunities could be realised (preliminary
designs and sketches are available on pages 28 – 30):
Transformative Area A (Short Term Strategy and Solutions)
widening of footpaths
narrowing of roadway to two lanes each way
at the Western Gateway the introduction of a landmark feature (Public Art etc.) to improve the sense of arrival to the CBD
intensification of landscaping (tree planting in median strip, garden beds and trees along widened footpaths
Dedicated Bicycle Lanes (City Council Standard Green Path) along Roma Street on both
Sides to connect with dedicated bicycle lanes on George Street and Upper Roma Street ‐ Greenery will improve ‘Green Path’ surface connectivity to Roma Street Parklands, Emma Miller Place, E McCormick Place etc.
All actions address issues with poor pedestrian access, green space and attractive
28
Transformative Area B (Short to Medium Term Strategy and solutions)
Apart from the ground floor, the upper floors of the Transit Centre are not utilised well and the
BCC could work with the owners on joint projects to improve use, including:
Short‐term accommodation and amenities for people in transit (interstate/intrastate)
A supermarket to support new residential projects at Roma Street
Dedicated bicycle centre (similar to RBWH and King George Square) to
Encourage different transport options to and from the CBD
Office Space
Smaller area for interstate coach travel passengers
Transformative Area C (Long Term Strategy)
enclose Roma Street Railway Station and cover it with a new park and garden facility
Lawns and exercise areas.
This will improve surface access to Roma Street Parklands and create a new open space for the Roma Street Precinct of the CBD
The BTC would receive an internal refurbishment and upgrade to the facia of the building with glass so that views are continuous from the inside and with limited obstruction from the outside.
29
Option 1 ‐ Underground pedestrian mall and tunnels designs (street view)
30
Option 1 ‐ Underground pedestrian mall and tunnels designs (pan view)
31
Option 1 ‐ Underground pedestrian mall and tunnels designs (plan view)
32
Option 2 – Traffic tunnel and creation of ‘Green Street’
The second and preferred option is to construct a vehicle tunnel (cut and cover method) directly
under the existing Roma Street Roadway with tunnel portals at the eastern and western ends of
Roma Street and at the intersection of George Street and Hershel Street. The separation of
vehicles and pedestrians will allow un‐obstructed movement of vehicles along Roma Street and
safe and seamless movement of pedestrians along the surface of Roma Street. The following
opportunities could be realised through this option (the final design is available on page 33):
Roma Street Surface Area
at the Western Gateway the introduction of a landmark feature (Public Art etc.) to improve the sense of arrival to the CBD
intensification of landscaping (tree planting along the reclaimed area, garden beds and trees along widened footpaths
Dedicated Bicycle Lanes (City Council Standard Green Path) along Roma Street on both Sides to connect with dedicated bicycle lanes on George Street and Upper Roma Street ‐ Greenery will improve ‘Green Path’ surface connectivity to Roma Street Parklands, Emma Miller Place, E McCormick Place etc.
All actions address issues with poor pedestrian access, green space and attractive
Brisbane Transit Centre
Short‐term accommodation and amenities for people in transit (interstate/intrastate)
A supermarket to support new residential projects at Roma Street
Dedicated bicycle centre (similar to RBWH and King George Square) to
Encourage different transport options to and from the CBD
Office Space
Smaller area for interstate coach travel passengers
Roma Street Railway Station
enclose Roma Street Railway Station and cover it with a new park and garden facility
Lawns and exercise areas.
This will improve surface access to Roma Street Parklands and create a new open space for the Roma Street Precinct of the CBD
The BTC would receive an internal refurbishment and upgrade to the facia of the building with glass so that views are continuous from the inside and with limited obstruction from the outside.
33
34
3.5 TASK FIVE URBAN DESIGN DEVELOPMENT ROMA STREET ‐
RECOMMENDATION
Camargo‐Kitson considered both of the design option at length. It was decided that Option 2 is
the recommended design for the Transformation of Roma Street. An important element in the
decision is the fact that Brisbane is not yet a 24 hour city and pedestrian movement is almost
non‐existent at night. It was decided that to move pedestrians underground would create
possible safety issues and de‐humanise the arrival experience between Roma street station and
the rest of the city. It is thought that option two is better equipped to provide a more attractive
solution and responds better to the objectives of the design brief. Architectural transformation is
still made possible with option and provides a unique opportunity for a new architectural
landscape feature for the City Centre.
At the economic level, Roma Street’s strategic position allows it to capitalise on the economic
opportunities offered by Brisbane’s CBD. The Brisbane Transit Centre offers access to Brisbane’s
Domestic and International Airports and to many of South East Queensland’s attractions, including
those within the CBD. Again, Roma Street has the potential to be landmark location that can
benefit from its high level of accessibility, connective potential to open space and opportunity for
redevelopment of public land. Any nearby future construction of residential projects can support
the area to evolve into a true mixed‐use neighbourhood, with features of historical and
contemporary built form and one of sustainable living.
Roma Street is a key location in the City Centre hierarchy of places, and has the potential to offer
an improved variety of business and employment opportunities that will stimulate the areas
ongoing prosperity for local residents and workers. Potential exists to revitalise the
neighbourhood with new residents, convenience shops and services within easy walking distance.
New development is immediately supported by already existing transport infrastructure and
commercial land use.
Improving connectivity to key nearby destinations, attractions and services within the CBD and
focussing on sustainable transport options and pedestrian access will complement the existing
network available from the Roma Street hub. Pedestrians and cyclists will be provided with
convenient access points throughout the area and to open space and community facilities that are
walkable to and safe. The railway and bus stations ensure that all visitors can connect to local,
regional, national and international destinations.
35
An attractive renewal of Roma Street into a boulevard that features subtropical gardens and trees
that interact with high‐quality building redevelopment and upgrades. Footpaths along Roma
Street and nearby side streets will become attractive and functional and fulfil the need for
pedestrians to move freely and safely in the newly created green space.
4.0 Summary and Conclusion
Roma Street, like many public spaces, is an important site for social, economic and cultural
activities in the City Centre. This project has attempted to improve the area through a rigorous
assessment and design process. The analysis identified goals for urban design related to safe
pedestrian movement, a large scale multi‐modal transport hub transit and increases in public
green spaces for the enjoyment of the community. Two preliminary ideas were selected for
design application after careful consideration of the contextual, spatial and stakeholder analyses.
Throughout the process, Camargo‐Kitson discovered that that many of the required solutions to
align with the broader plans of BCC could be achieved through separation of pedestrian and
vehicle interaction. Extra green space creates a more comfortable and natural experience in a
world dominated by concrete and steel.
The proposed design will increases the general walkability of the neighbourhood. Improved
bicycle infrastructure builds on the multi‐modal and connectivity assets already present at Roma
Street and also adds to the cycling infrastructure of the Brisbane. All the improvements displayed
in this project aimed to not only make the experience more comfortable for residents and visitors
to Roma Street, but also to make this space a valued more asset in the community.
36
5.0 Reference ListAustralian Government 2011, Creating Places for People: An urban design protocol for Australian Cities, Department of Infrastructure and Transport, Canberra, Australia 2600 Bonzle 2013, Roma Street Railway Station 1888, viewed 24 April 2013, http://www.bonzle.com/c/a?a=pic&fn=ysiz2rzy&s=2 Brisbane City Council 2012, A Vision for our City: City Centre Master Plan 2012, Brisbane City Council, Brisbane 4001 Brisbane City Council 2013, City Centre Transformative Areas and priority elements: Student Information Brief City Centre Master Plan, Brisbane City Council, Brisbane, pp. 5‐7 Brisbane Transit Centre 2013, viewed 24 April 2013, http://www.brisbanetransitcentre.com.au Carmona.M., Tiesdell.S. 2007, Urban Design Reader, Architectural Press, Oxford, United Kingdom Cowan.R., 2002, Urban Design Guidance: Checklist for preparing urban design guidance, Thomas Telford Publishing, 1 Heron Quay, London Cowan.R., 2002, Urban Design Guidance: Introduction, Thomas Telford Publishing, 1 Heron Quay, London Queensland Government 2004, Historical overview: Roma Street Parkland precinct, Brisbane, viewed 24 April 2013, http://www.aila.org.au/projects/qld/roma/docs/HistoryEBrochure.pdf Placecheck 2013, Urban Design Skills, viewed 20 April 2013, http://www.placecheck.info Roma Street Redevelopment, viewed 24 April 2013 http://www.rawsonplace.esmartdesign.com/notebook/339/notebook.htm
37
Appendices
Appendix One
Roma St (Brisbane Transit Centre) observation plan
Students: Ismael Alejandro Munoz Camargo - 42570576 Gregory Kitson - 42487535 Materials: Observation Template (includes Sketching space), Pencils, Cameras (Smartphones), Hi-Vis Safety Vests (UQ/GPEM), Appropriate footwear Video camera: Alejandro & Greg Site visits: Alejandro & Greg Morning, midday and evening (peak and off peak) between March-April including weekends. At least twice a week. Information recorded and observed from multiple locations at the transformative site (TBA). Observations to be recorded: Alejandro & Greg Mix people. What do you see? What are they doing? Why they are there? What activities are they doing? Do they look comfortable? Try to be selective *Footpaths and cycle ways and Pedestrian movement • Road/Street types • Public transport networks • Land use • Building height and types • Active frontage • Density • Nodes • Landmarks and monuments • Views • Open Spaces • Other aspects: character areas, designated areas, listed Buildings, historic evolution Pay particular attention to anything that seems to you unusual or odd. Sketch Diagrams: Alejandro & Greg
38
Appendix 2
39
27