Plan2003 Urban Design Portfolio - Greg Kitson and Alex Camargo

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CAMARGO‐KITSON

URBAN DESIGN CONSULTANTS

BRISBANCE CITY CATALYST PROJECT

ROMA STREET TRANSFORMATION

Presented by: Mr Alex Camargo and Mr Greg Kitson

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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

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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.

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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.

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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


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.

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(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


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

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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Roma Street, Local Context A

(Google Maps)

Roma Street, Local Context B

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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

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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

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Figure 4 – Synthesised Contextual Analysis of Roma Street

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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”.

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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.

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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

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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.

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Option 1 ‐ Underground pedestrian mall and tunnels designs (street view)

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Option 1 ‐ Underground pedestrian mall and tunnels designs (pan view)

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Option 1 ‐ Underground pedestrian mall and tunnels designs (plan view)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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Appendix 2

Plan2003 Urban Design Portfolio - Greg Kitson and Alex Camargo

Documents

Transcript of Plan2003 Urban Design Portfolio - Greg Kitson and Alex Camargo