Seafront masterplan - Portsmouth · 3.2 Coastal defences ... communities and all those involved in...

www.portsmouth.gov.uk

Seafront masterplanSupplementary Planning Document (SPD) - April 2013

Seafront masterplan • Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) - April 2013

2

© Crown Copyright and database right 2013. Ordnance Survey Licence number 100019671.

Aerial images © Blom Pictometry 2009

You can get this Portsmouth City Council information in large print, Braille, audio or in another language by calling 9268 8633.

Portsmouth City CouncilPlanning ServicesCivic OfficesGuildhall Square PortsmouthPO1 2AU

www.portsmouth.gov.uk

This Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) was adopted on 10th April 2013


3

Contents

1.0 Preface .................................................. 4

2.0 Vision .................................................... 7

2.1 Objectives of the masterplan ................... 7

3.0 The Seafront – area framework .......... 8

3.1 Designations ........................................... 8

3.2 Coastal defences ..................................... 8

3.3 New events ............................................. 8

3.4 Design principles ................................... 10

3.5 Access and ease of movement .............. 19

4.0 Key opportunities ............................... 22

4.1 Old Portsmouth..................................... 24

4.2 Long Curtain Moat to Clarence Pier ...... 28

4.3 Southsea Common ............................... 43

4.4 Southsea Castle and surrounds ............. 50

4.5 South Parade Pier and Canoe Lake ........ 61

4.6 Eastney Beach ....................................... 73

5.0 Planning policies................................. 81

National planning policy ........................ 81

Local planning policy ............................. 81

6.0 Conclusion and implementation ....... 83

7.0 References........................................... 85

Figures

Figure 1 – Area covered by the Seafront masterplan (SPD) ............................... 5

Figure 2 – Seafront designations ...................................... 9

Figure 3 – Key routes at the Seafront ............................. 21

Figure 4 – Seafront character areas ................................ 23

Figure 5 – Opportunities in Old Portsmouth ................... 25

Figure 6 – Opportunities in the Long Curtain Moat to Clarence Pier area .......................................... 29

Figure 7 – Opportunities in the Southsea Common area 44

Figure 8 – Opportunities at Southsea Castle and surrounds ............................................... 51

Figure 9 – Opportunities in the South Parade Pier and Canoe Lake area ........................................... 62

Figure 10 – Opportunities at Eastney Beach ...................... 74


Pref

ace

4

This masterplan is intended to guide improvements to the Seafront area of the city. It contains proposals that respond to the overarching vision and aims of the Seafront Strategy1 (see section 2.0) and provides further detailed guidance about how Policy PCS9 (The Seafront) of the Portsmouth Plan2 will be implemented.

The masterplan has been adopted as a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) and will be used as a material consideration when the council is determining planning applications relating to land and buildings at the Seafront.

The masterplan is supported by a Sustainability Appraisal3, Habitats Regulations Assessment4, and Landscape Character Assessment5.

It has been prepared in four stages:

• stage 1: October 2010 - May 2011. Area appraisal and baseline study;

• stage 2: May 2011 – May 2012. Identifying opportunities, developing design concepts and drafting the masterplan;

• stage 3: July 2012 – September 2012. Public consultation on the draft plan,

• stage 4: October 2012 - April 2013. Considering comments, revising the plan and adoption as an SPD.

The plan seeks to:

• set out the background and context for development opportunities (including the redevelopment and re-use of existing buildings), and public realm improvements;

• articulate a clear identity / role for each of the Seafront’s six unique character areas, and

• establish a high quality baseline for proposals including design principles, potential mix of uses and guidance for buildings and public spaces.

It is anticipated that this plan will be of value to landowners, investors / developers, local communities and all those involved in the local regeneration process. At this stage the proposals contained in the plan are not fully costed or funded. Rather, it is intended that the plan will provide the basis for proposals to be taken forward, giving stakeholders a degree of certainty as to the potential opportunities at the Seafront. It will also act as a guide for future city council investment at the Seafront and will provide a framework for future bids for public funding.

The document is structured as follows:

• Section 2.0 - introduces the vision for the Seafront and objectives of the masterplan.

• Section 3.0 - sets out the framework of guidance relating to the Seafront area as a whole, including opportunities for improving accessibility and ease of movement, and key design principles.

• Section 4.0 - identifies the opportunities for development and improving the public realm in each of the six character areas that make up the Seafront.

• Section 5.0 - sets out the planning policy context for new development.

• Section 6.0 - addresses issues of implementation.

The area covered by the Seafront masterplan is identified in Figure 1.

1.0 Preface


Pref

ace

5

Figure 1 - Area covered by the Seafront masterplan (SPD)


Vis

ion

6

“Southsea Seafront should be a vibrant space, a place to experience the natural unspoilt environment, take-in the fascinating nautical views across the Solent and enjoy quality leisure facilities, events and activities all the year round”. (Seafront Strategy, 2010)


Vis

ion

7

2.0 Vision Southsea Seafront stretches some 3.7 miles from the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour to the west, to the Langstone Harbour entrance to the east (see Figure 1). The Seafront is an important city asset. It plays a key role in shaping perceptions of Portsmouth, both as a tourist destination and home for city residents.

In order to maximise the potential of the Seafront as a whole, there is an urgent need to draw visitors along its length, from Old Portsmouth towards attractions such as Southsea Castle, the D-Day Museum, Southsea Common and beaches.

Recent developments such as Gunwharf Quays and the publicly funded Millennium Walk have demonstrated the significant potential of investment in the city’s waterfront. With the opening of the new Mary Rose Museum at the Historic Dockyard, and ambitions for Portsmouth to become a European city break destination with world-class attractions, there will be considerably more focus on the Seafront area as a whole.

Broadening the range of attractions on offer will encourage visitors to spend more time at the Seafront and will make a positive contribution to the vitality and viability of the area. There is enormous potential to enhance and improve the Seafront in terms of the range and quality of leisure, cultural and recreational opportunities it offers. Improving its public realm, which is the network of streets, footpaths and open spaces

at the Seafront, will also be important.

This masterplan sets out proposals that respond to the overarching aims of the Seafront Strategy which are to:

• increase the number of people using the Seafront year round by ensuring a range of experiences suited to a wide spectrum of age groups;

• realise the enhanced role that the Seafront could play in the city’s economy by identifying opportunities for new attractions that bring life to the area during the day and into the evening;

• make best use of existing Seafront assets such as the historic Southsea Castle;

• deliver new, high quality buildings with a mix of uses that contribute to a vibrant local economy (such as a new conference centre / leisure facilities);

• undertake high quality improvements to the public realm, including clearer signage and information, lighting and public art;

• improve connections between the Seafront and other parts of the city and increase the number of people using public transport, walking and cycling to access the Seafront;

• reinforce the individual roles of the different character areas that make up the Seafront, and

• raise awareness of the rare and valuable habitat located at Eastney Beach and protect and manage this important natural resource.

2.1 Objectives of the masterplanThe following objectives should therefore underpin all development proposals for the Seafront (proposals can include new buildings and the re-use of existing buildings, as well as improvements to public spaces):

• introducing a vibrant mix of leisure and tourism uses to the area, including small scale cafes and restaurants, that will attract people to the Seafront all year round;

• ensuring that the design of new attractions and public spaces is distinctive and of a high quality, and that it is sensitive to, and enhances, the character of the area;

• conserving and enhancing the Seafront’s historic environment and heritage assets;

• strengthening routes between Old Portsmouth and Eastney Beach, and to other parts of the city;

• protecting the open nature of Southsea Common and other public spaces, and the valuable wildlife habitat at Eastney Beach, and

• ensuring that new sea defences integrate sensitively with the local environment and provide opportunities to improve the Seafront.


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

8

3.0 The Seafront – area frameworkIn order to address the masterplan objectives set out in section 2.0, opportunities for improving the Seafront are structured around its six unique character areas (see section 4.0).

It is important, however, that the Seafront is seen as ‘a whole’. The guidance set out in the following paragraphs should, therefore, inform proposals throughout the Seafront area. This guidance is intended to ‘stitch’ proposals together into a seamless programme of regeneration.

3.1 DesignationsThe majority of the Seafront falls within the boundary of Conservation Area No. 10 (The Seafront), which includes Southsea Common and adjacent areas. Part of the Seafront to the east is covered by the Eastney Barracks Conservation Area (No. 17) which includes the Grade II listed Royal Marines Museum. The historic built environment in Old Portsmouth is protected by Conservation Area No. 4 (Old Portsmouth).

The Seafront also contains a significant number of war memorials and monuments, the most prominent being the Grade II listed Royal Naval War Memorial on Clarence Parade.

Southsea Castle is a Scheduled Ancient Monument, along with its batteries (ramparts) and the linked fortifications at Kings Bastion, Lumps Fort, Eastney and Fort Cumberland. Cumberland House (The Natural History Museum) near Canoe Lake is Grade II listed, as are South Parade Pier, the Castle lighthouse, and the historic lamp columns

and yellow-painted shelters along the Promenade.

Southsea Common (measuring 82 hectares) is on English Heritage’s Register of Historic Parks & Gardens. The Common incorporates the wider Canoe Lake area and the surroundings to Southsea Castle. It is one of a number of areas at the Seafront which are protected as open spaces by Policy PSC13 of the Portsmouth Plan.

Eastney beach and land around Fort Cumberland are protected as Local Wildlife Sites. The two harbours, Portsmouth Harbour to the west, and Langstone Harbour to the east, are designated as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), Special Protection Areas for Birds (SPAs) and Ramsar sites. In addition, Langstone Harbour forms part of the Solent Maritime Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

Several sites on the Seafront help to support bird populations which use the harbours. Some of the area’s open spaces, including the lawn to the west of the Royal Marines Museum, provide feeding sites for Brent geese and the ridge of shingle on Eastney Beach provides an important high tide roost for wader species such as Dunlin and Ringed Plover.

3.2 Coastal defencesThe council has been working in partnership with the Environment Agency to address the issue of coastal flooding and erosion to Portsea Island over the next 100 years. This has led to the

adoption of the ‘Portsea Island Coastal Strategy Study’6. The strategy for coastal defence management along the Seafront is to ‘hold the line’ i.e. to maintain the line of defence and, where necessary, improve the standard of protection.

The Seafront has been identified as a priority area for improved coastal defence structures in the short term. Coastal defence work may include enhancing, improving or replacing the existing sea wall and Promenade. It may also involve raising the level of the Promenade and other walkways. In order to dissipate wave energy, beach management, wave control structures or sloping sea walls may be needed. At Eastney, the wide beach provides a natural barrier to the sea and minimum intervention will be required.

It is anticipated that detailed proposals for enhanced coastal defences at the Seafront will be informed by this masterplan which identifies opportunities to utilise defence works to deliver wider improvements to the public realm.

3.3 New eventsThe Seafront Strategy identifies a need to provide more events to attract people to the area. In addition to existing spaces such as Castle Field, further locations / venues where new events would be encouraged are identified in section 4.0. These include the Skatepark, the proposed Watersports Hub at Eastney Beach and Sports Hub on Avenue de Caen.


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

9

Figure 2 - Seafront designations


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

10

3.4 Design principlesIn order to ensure that new development and public realm improvements are of the highest quality, a number of design principles are set out below. These principles offer guidance on a range of issues that must be considered in the design of such projects. The guidance is accompanied by images of good practice from around the city and other areas

The detailed proposals that are set out in section 4.0 may be accompanied by specific design guidance that should be considered alongside the general principles set out in this section.

Concessions / kiosks

Planning permission may be granted for the replacement of, and / or new kiosks, at the locations set out in section 4.0. These kiosks

could accommodate small-scale retail to serve Seafront visitors as well as opportunities to purchase food and drink.

The design of new concessions / kiosks (including materials) should be of a high quality, make a positive contribution to the local environment and reflect the importance and / or sensitivity of their surroundings.

Beach huts

There is currently a waiting list for beach huts at the Seafront. In order to meet some of this demand, there is an opportunity to provide new huts in the specific locations identified in section 4.0. There is also a need to replace existing poor quality huts at Lumps Fort which detract from the setting of this sensitive site.

New beach huts should be attractive, and of a robust and secure design. They should be simple and modular, allowing for individual colours to be applied to elevations for easy identification.

The design of new huts should meet the following criteria:

• they should be single-storey and clad in timber boarding or a durable alternative such as marine ply

• door and window openings should be on the elevation that fronts the sea

• doors, windows and unglazed openings should have hinged shutters that are fitted when the hut is not in use

• canopies or aprons should be at the front of the building and should be removed when not in use or in the case of aprons / decks should be designed to be secured to the front of the building when closed

• they should be finished in a wide variety of colours, offering an opportunity for individuality. Where one solid colour is used on the main hut, doors, windows and other details should be picked out in a contrasting colour.


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

11

Materials

A limited range of high quality materials will help to strengthen the identity of the Seafront. Different materials and detailing could be used to enhance the role of individual character areas. A key consideration in all proposals must be the waterfront location and exposed nature of the area, and the need for materials to be robust and durable. Locally sourced and recycled materials could be used to enhance the local distinctiveness and ‘individuality’ of new development and public realm improvements. Materials used in the public realm should typically be of a maritime character and could include hardy timber, rope, iron and rivets, and stainless steel.

Surfaces should be made of permeable / porous materials to allow water to drain away naturally before it reaches the city’s sewerage system. Careful consideration must be given to the treatment and maintenance of surfaces in locations that will be covered by sea water at high tide, for example the Sculptural decks (section 4.3) and Castle amphitheatre (section 4.4).

Promenades, footpaths & boardwalks

The Promenade and footpaths play an important role in connecting different parts of the Seafront. In some places, existing paving is in need of repair and there is an opportunity to strengthen the entire Promenade with a new ‘unifying’ surface,

including a motif or pattern to mimic the Millennium Chain used along the historic waterfront of Old Portsmouth. The planned coastal defence work will also create an opportunity to replace parts of the Promenade.

Paving and surface materials should be robust, durable and easy to maintain. They must also be be ‘user-friendly’ for those with mobility problems.

Suitable materials would be concrete with an exposed aggregate finish, combined with areas of natural stone to create focal points and textural interest. Different colours or types of aggregate could be used to create a mosaic effect. Boardwalks and deck space should be made of hardy timber and include, where required, marine grade stainless steel balustrades.


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

12

Signage / wayfinding

At present the Seafront lacks a co-ordinated approach to signage. Some places are hidden, for example a visitor could pass by Canoe Lake and the Rose Garden without realising they are there. Visitors to the Seafront may also not appreciate how close they are to other centres such as Southsea.

New signs should direct Seafront visitors along key routes to other parts of the city. In some locations, wayfinding totems (such as that pictured to the left) and new fingerposts will be introduced to mark out routes between the Seafront and other destinations such as Southsea Town Centre, Gunwharf Quays and Commercial Road. Totem signs will include maps identifying routes and local landmarks and will show people how easy it is to get from one place to another ‘on foot’ or by bicycle.

As with street furniture, one type of sign will not be appropriate in all locations. In order to enhance the pedestrian environment, signs at the Seafront must be distinctive and made of robust materials. They should contain clear font and, where possible, include images / pictures to aid understanding and be at a height that is accessible for different Seafront visitors e.g. young people / those in wheelchairs. Care should also be taken to ensure that signs (and street furniture) do not cause an obstruction to people using the Promenade / footpaths.

High quality signage should extend further east along the Seafront to help guide people through Old Portsmouth towards Clarence Pier and beyond. The design of any buildings / spaces should also seek to enhance and improve signage / wayfinding and public artwork should be used to improve legibility.

Interpretation / information

Existing good quality signs at the Seafront, interpreting the history of Old Portsmouth and natural environment at Eastney, set a precedent for what could be achieved elsewhere. This type of information should also be provided at key points such as the Castle and its ramparts and historic forts. It could be positioned to form a trail from the Square Tower and Saluting Platform, through to Lumps Fort and forts at Eastney.

There is also an opportunity to provide information about shipping activity on the Solent, as well as describing landmarks and locations that can be seen from certain vantage points, such as the Sea Forts and the Isle of Wight, and more information about the important wildlife habitat at Eastney.


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

13

Street furniture

Street furniture can be provided in interesting forms and should be designed to complement its specific context. Where possible, seating should be integrated into the design of walls and paving. It could incorporate shelter from the wind and rain / shade from the sun, as well as art work.

Examples of high quality seating can be found at the Saluting Platform in Old Portsmouth where the curved concrete and timber design draws inspiration from its maritime location. This design /

theme could be adapted and used elsewhere along the Seafront at other lookout points. Similarly, the design of curved profile timber seats near Grand Parade, slab seats at the Point and large square timber and concrete blocks at the Hot Walls may be suited to other locations.

New seating should be made from robust and sustainable materials such as hardwood timber, stone / concrete and maritime grade stainless steel.

Dover Esplanade - courtesy of architects Tonkin Liu (Mike Tonkin)


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

14

Waste bins are an important part of street furniture and should be considered early on in the design of spaces and buildings and not as an ‘add on’ later. As with seating and signage, one style of waste bin will not be suited to every location but they should all be:

• easy to use and maintain

• incorporate a cover to prevent access by birds

• made of suitable materials such as timber and steel, recycled plastic or concrete

• designed to be well integrated into their surroundings

• include opportunities for recycling where possible.

Planting

Maritime planting would help to soften areas of hard landscaping at the Seafront (such as areas of paving and car parks), would enhance biodiversity and provide visual interest all year round. Some additional planting may also be needed to mitigate against the impacts of development in the area of the Local Wildlife Site at Eastney Beach (i.e. the proposed Eco

Cafe / Watersports Hub - see section 4.6). Plants must be hardy and tolerant of the salt-laden winds that are common at the Seafront. They could include grasses and perennials such as Tamarisk, complemented by shingle flora commonly found at Eastney Beach - such as Sea Kale, Rock Samphire, Sea Sandwort and Sea Radish. Native species should be selected where possible.

Tree planting will be encouraged at certain locations to provide shade and shelter. Trees can also be used on key routes to create a boulevard effect that draws people along their length. The exposed environment means that only certain trees flourish at the Seafront. Maritime Pines, Sea Buckthorn and Evergreen Oaks have all been established successfully in Old Portsmouth, at Canoe Lake and on the Common.

Tree planting can potentially break up open spaces and reduce their effectiveness as Brent goose feeding sites. When putting together planting schemes, ecological advice should be sought to ensure that Brent goose feeding sites at the Seafront are protected and maintained.


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

15

Ecological advice should also be sought in relation to maritime planting schemes to ensure that the species to be included do not compete with other species of conservation interest.

Lighting

Whilst excessive lighting is not to be encouraged, there is an opportunity to creatively utilise lighting at the Seafront and on the routes that lead to the sea. This will enhance the night-time experience of the Seafront and create dramatic views into the area from the Solent.

Interesting lighting will help to create atmosphere, encourage people to spend time in key locations and draw visitors along the Seafront. Any new or replacement lighting should use low energy systems to reduce their cost and minimise greenhouse gas emissions.

The strategy for lighting the Seafront should include the following:

• a review of existing column lighting

• lighting of key landmarks, buildings and spaces

• low level lighting of main routes.

Existing lights – There is already a lot of column lighting along the Seafront, including the distinctive lantern style at Old Portsmouth and the Grade II listed double-headed lamp columns along the Promenade from Clarence Pier to Eastney. Where possible, the standard (non-listed) street lamp columns at Clarence Pier and South Parade should be replaced with a more contemporary design that reflects the importance of these two attractions. The existing festoon lights (located between listed lamp columns) could also be modernised using LED lighting that could pulse with different colours and rhythms to create a dynamic effect.

Drif

t Pa

rk, R

hyl -

cou

rtes

y of

BC

A L

ands

cape


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

16

Architectural lighting – Well designed and positioned lighting can create a powerful effect. Architectural lighting of key buildings and structures, such as the Castle, Pyramids, Clarence Pier and South Parade Pier, will be encouraged. Lighting should be used sensitively to highlight and celebrate buildings and structures, rather to over-illuminate areas by flooding them with light.

Low level lighting of routes – The design of new buildings, spaces and key routes should consider integrating low level lighting. This could include feature lighting set in walls, seats and

paving. The lighting of memorials and features, such as the statue of Nelson in Grand Parade, would reinforce important landmarks and should seek to echo the individual sentiment of structures. The use of up-lighters on trees along the Avenue de Caen would be encouraged in order to reinforce the route from the Castle to Southsea town centre.

Lighting schemes (and art installations - see pp. 17-18) must be carefully assessed in order to ensure that they do not impact on Brent goose feeding sites.

Phot

ogra

ph c

ourt

esy

of B

lack

pool

City

Cou

ncil

Dover Esplanade - courtesy of architects Tonkin Liu (Rob Polley)N

ewca

stle

N. I

. - c

ourt

esy

of U

RS In

fras

truc

ture

& E

nviro

nmen

t U

K L

td.


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

17

Designing out crime

The design and layout of new buildings and public spaces can play an important role in promoting, and improving perceptions of, public safety. Proposals for the Seafront area must have regard to:

• the council’s Reducing Crime through Design SPD7

• NaCTSO’s Protecting Crowded Places: Design & Technical Issues8

• CLG’s Crowded Places: The Planning System & Counter-Terrorism9

The city council would also encourage developers, architects and urban designers to have early engagement with Hampshire Constabulary’s Crime Prevention Design Advisor and Counter Terrorism Security Advisor.

Artwork

Two types of new artwork are proposed for the Seafront. Firstly, where possible, artwork should form an integral part of the design of buildings and public spaces. Secondly, specific locations for new permanent and temporary public art are proposed. With a wealth of local history to draw upon, from the city’s naval heritage to famous writers such as Dickens and Conan Doyle, and the city’s social history, artwork will be encouraged to ‘tell the story of Portsmouth’ as the Mudlarks Sculpture does at The Hard. The council will work with developers and artists to deliver specific pieces. Ph

otog

raph

cou

rtes

y of

Bla

ckpo

ol C

ity C

ounc

il Ph

otog

raph

cou

rtes

y of

Wyr

e Bo

roug

h C

ounc

il

Promenade ‘interventions’ – Specific locations have been identified for interventions such as artwork and sculptural features or architectural structures. There may also be an opportunity for a ‘camera obscura’ piece (which can project what is happening outside onto an internal wall) to take advantage of the spectacular sea views.


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

18

Interventions in key locations would create a landmark to signal a change in the direction of the Promenade, a link to a footpath or a key entrance point to an attraction, public space or street on the landward side of the Seafront. They should incorporate discreet, low level lighting to enhance the atmosphere in the evening.

Temporary art installations – The temporary dinosaur artwork located on the Common in 2011 highlighted how successful temporary art installations in the city can be, as well as the suitability of the Common as a venue for such events. Temporary events such as large-scale architectural projections and illuminations of green spaces could also transform and ‘energise’ the wider Seafront area. Such light installations could act as a ‘warm up' to a larger cultural event or be an event in themselves.


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

19

3.5 Access and ease of movementIt will be important to encourage better access to the seafront and beach, and clearer / more legible routes around the Seafront area, and between the Seafront and the rest of the city. In order to maximise the opportunities for increasing visitor numbers, key routes should be strengthened. This involves improving pedestrian flow as well as cycle access and public transport links, and ensuring car parking is available and clearly signposted. Development of the city’s transport network is guided by the council’s Local Transport Plan 3 (LTP3)10, one of the aims of which is to enable people to make choices about their modes of travel and to reduce dependence on the private car.

Key routes

The proposals set out in section 4.0 aim to help people to access the Seafront from other parts of the city and to make it easier for people to move around the area.

There are a number of key routes at the Seafront that require improvement. This could involve simple changes / enhancements to signage, paving or lighting. Other improvements could be more dramatic, such as those proposed for Avenue de Caen (see section 4.4) which would create a public space that draws visitors and residents to the Seafront, as well as signposting them to the nearby Southsea town centre.

The Promenade

The most important route for pedestrians at the Seafront is the Promenade. All proposals for new development and improvements to the public realm must consider the need to promote access to, and ease of movement along, this critical route. This should include improving access for wheelchair users, others with mobility problems and those with pushchairs. The Promenade itself should be enhanced with new surfacing, ramps to address changes in ground level and additional seating.

Disabled access to the beach / sea

Disabled access from the Promenade onto the beach, and into the sea itself, is currently poor. There are significant opportunities to improve access at Southsea and Eastney beaches. For example, at Speakers Corner (see section 4.4) a ramp would allow for disabled access across the pebble beach to the water. Ramps should be moveable structures that can be taken up if works are needed to the beach or if they need to be relaid because of changes in beach levels. In addition to ramps, beach access matting could also be used. Improving access should also include access to special equipment, such as balloon-wheeled wheelchairs specifically designed for beaches and for going into the sea, and disabled WC / changing facilities.

Key gateways and junctions

Key gateways and junctions also require improvement (see section 4.0). At these points there should be clear signage and good pedestrian crossings. There is also an opportunity to use public art to highlight gateways to the Seafront. Gateways should welcome people to the area and also signpost visitors leaving the area to nearby centres such as the city centre, Southsea town centre and Albert Road.

Main gateways and junctions include those at Clarence Pier, the Blue Reef Aquarium, the D-Day Museum, South Parade Pier and St Georges Road (see Figure 3). More detailed proposals for these junctions are set out in section 4.0.


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

20

Pedestrian access / movement

At present, the esplanades and roads along the Seafront are dominated by cars. By improving crossings to the Promenade and slowing vehicle traffic down, the aim is to prioritise pedestrian movement around the Seafront area.

Lower Promenade and boardwalk sections are proposed at certain locations along the Seafront to allow people to get closer to the sea (see section 4.0). Opportunities are also identified for using low level directional lighting and better seating to improve the safety and accessibility of the Promenade in some locations. Walking routes to the Seafront should be clearly defined in order to help pedestrians find their way to the sea.

Cycling

Portsmouth is largely flat and compact and so in many ways is ideally suited to cycling. As well as offering a sustainable means of transport, there is growing interest in cycling for health and recreation.

A key aim is to increase the number of visitors to the Seafront without increasing pressure on the existing road network. The city council is therefore keen to increase the number of people who travel to and around the Seafront by bicycle.

In the short term, appropriate existing routes for cyclists (to, from and around the Seafront) will be identified (for example the new section of Shipwrights Way). In the longer term, public

realm improvements in the area should make provision for the free and safe movement of pedestrians and cyclists. It is intended that the Promenade will remain a ‘cycle free’ zone.

Cycle hire and secure cycle parking will also increase opportunities for people to cycle to and around the Seafront. There is a possibility that, in the future, cycle hire may be available at the city’s Port or at The Hard. In the longer term, cycle hire could be extended to include hire points along the Seafront. Any proposals for cycle hire facilities should include high quality, weather proof storage and servicing facilities. Additional, secure and covered cycle parking should also be provided along the Seafront at key locations (see Section 4.0).

Buses

There is an opportunity to create a new ‘bus loop route’ around the Seafront and Southsea. This could be the route of a new sightseeing tour / bus service using a distinctive vehicle such as an open-topped double-decker. The bus could collect and drop off passengers at key transport interchanges, including Portsmouth & Southsea railway station and The Hard interchange. Passengers could also have the option of breaking their journey to visit one of a number of attractions along the Seafront.

Rail

The railway stations at the city centre (Portsmouth & Southsea) and at Portsmouth Harbour provide various opportunities for accessing different parts of the Seafront by bus or on foot. The Harbour brings visitors straight to the Hard and the historic waterfront. New signage (including totems) at the two railway stations will provide visitors with directions to, and information about, the Seafront area (see p. 12).


The

Seaf

ron

t –

area

fra

mew

ork

21

Figure 3 - Key routes at the Seafront


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies

22

Opportunities for new development (which can include the redevelopment and re-use of existing buildings) and improving the public realm are set out in the following paragraphs. They are structured around the six character areas that make up the Seafront.

The distinction between these different ‘sub-areas’ is intended to reinforce their individual characteristics and identity, and the different roles they play in the ‘Seafront experience’ of residents and visitors. Consequently there is a need to recognise and build upon the opportunities that exist within these areas, while protecting the characteristics / attractions that make each area popular with the people that use them. The six areas are (see also Figure 4):

Old PortsmouthDating back to around 1180, Old Portsmouth was the original settlement from which the city of Portsmouth grew. Its historic built environment, strong maritime character and wonderful views across the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour make it a popular destination for tourists and locals.

Long Curtain Moat to Clarence Pier Including part of the city’s historic fortifications, this stretch of the Seafront leads eastwards to the traditional seaside entertainment area of

Clarence Pier. Built in 1861, Clarence Pier, which includes a funfair and other leisure attractions, has been popular with city residents and visitors for many years. The area also includes the Hovercraft terminal.

Southsea CommonThe Common provides much of the Seafront with its open character and is an important part of the city’s network of ‘green infrastructure’. A prized open space, the Common is the location of many special events and is highly valued as an area for walking, picnics and general recreation. The area includes the Royal Naval War Memorial and Blue Reef Aquarium.

Southsea Castle and surroundsBuilt in 1544, this historic scheduled ancient monument is a ‘jewel in the city’s crown’. The Castle is open to visitors from March to October and hosts a range of events, including educational opportunities, alongside the Yellow Kite cafe. Other

attractions, such as the Pyramids leisure centre, D-Day museum and Skatepark, surround the Castle.

South Parade Pier and Canoe LakeBoth the Pier and Canoe Lake are popular Seafront landmarks attracting many visitors each year. The grassed open space around the lake is a popular spot for summer picnics and includes recently improved play facilities. The area also includes the Rose Garden, Lumps Fort and Cumberland House Natural History Museum.

Eastney BeachThe Eastney Beach area is the quietest stretch of the Seafront, containing a variety of coastal flora. Its vegetated shingle is recognised as a valuable habitat containing some nationally rare species. This part of the beach is designated as a Local Wildlife Site. The beach also provides valuable roosting and feeding sites for bird life. Eastney Swimming Pool, the Royal Marines Museum and Fort Cumberland are in this area.

4.0 Key opportunities at the Seafront


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies

23

Figure 4 - Seafront character areas

Old Portsmouth

Southsea Common

Long Curtain Moat to Clarence Pier

Southsea Castle and surrounds

South Parade Pier and Canoe Lake

Eastney Beach


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Old

Po

rtsm

ou

th

24

Clockwise from right: the Point; Bath Square / the Still & West; the Millennium Walkway at the Square Tower, Hot Walls beach; Grand Parade, Point Battery Arches and aerial photo of Old Portsmouth.

4.1 Old Portsmouth


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Old

Po

rtsm

ou

th

25

Improve/restore Victoria Pier and decking for fishing & viewing

1 The ARTches project – new arts and crafts quarter

Improve footpath and signage from the Camber

to the Hot Walls

Strengthen route from Old Portsmouth to Long Curtain Moat using distinctive signage and artworks

Gunwharf Quays

Spinnaker Tower

CathedralPoint Battery

Point

Wightlink

The Hard SPD area

Historic Dockyard

2 Public artwork & signage

Figure 5 - Opportunities in Old Portsmouth

Existing flood defences


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Old

Po

rtsm

ou

th

26

Opportunities for significant regeneration of the Hard are identified in a separate SPD11.

1 The ARTches project

An opportunity exists to sympathetically convert the arches within Point Battery (a scheduled ancient monument) into a vibrant arts and crafts quarter including uses that ‘bring life’ to the street scene.

Mix of uses

A variety of uses could be accommodated in the arches, including art studios / gallery space, food and drink outlets and a cycle hire facility, alongside new public toilets.

Character / design

Principal access points and entrances to the arches are from Broad Street. The key elevation of the arches faces Broad Street and conversion of these structures should seek to enliven the street scene and create interest along this route. Conversion of the arches must not detract from their character. Signage should be discreet and sympathetic to this scheduled ancient monument.

Parking and servicing

Servicing of the arches would be from access points on Broad Street. On street (metered) parking is available along Broad Street and the High Street.

Artist’s impressions of the ARTches project


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Old

Po

rtsm

ou

th

27

Existing quality paving (above) and sculpture (below) at Point Battery

2 Public artwork/ signage

In Old Portsmouth, there is a good opportunity to tell the story of area’s rich history using literature based signage and artwork to animate certain locations. Artwork and signage could be set into paving or walls, using plaques or inlaid poetry, or into tree guards and grills (as below and left).

Phot

ogra

ph (t

ree

grill

) cou

rtes

y of

des

igne

r / a

rtis

t M

icha

el F

airf

ax


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

28

Clockwise from right: Promenade at Clarence Pier; Spur Redoubt; Kings Bastion; Long Curtain Moat; Clarence Pier amusements, Clarence Pier and aerial photo of Long Curtain Moat to Clarence Pier area.

4.2 Long Curtain Moat to Clarence Pier


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

29

Play Area

Pier

Roa

d

MOD playing field

Long Curtain Road

Car park

Long Curtain Moat

Hover Pad (increased)

Kings Bastion

Footpath to Southsea

1 Long Curtain Moat and Kings Bastion

2 Opportunities at Clarence Pier

3 Pier Road gateways

Beach

Car park

Figure 6 - Opportunities in the Long Curtain Moat to Clarence Pier area


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

30

1 Long Curtain Moat and Kings Bastion

Promenade and boardwalk

In this location, the Promenade splits and curves at a lower level. Just before it reaches Clarence Pier, the Promenade would connect with a new timber boardwalk that links King’s Bastion and green spaces to the north with the Promenade and new deck area at Clarence Pier to the south. The design of this boardwalk should respect the setting of Long Curtain / Kings Bastion / Spur Redoubt (a scheduled ancient monument). It should be robust, using hardy timber, but also creative in design detailing and form. Ease of maintenance must also be an important consideration.

Sea defences

The new sea defences planned at Long Curtain Moat could incorporate rock armour / revetments to complement the existing mosaic of natural materials found in this area. Defences could also incorporate sculptural seating or steps / terraces, lighting and artwork. The location is popular with local fishermen and any reconfiguration of the area should accommodate this use.

Long Curtain Moat car park

The current capacity of this car park (165 spaces) will be retained. The car park boundary with the Promenade to the south should be improved with trees and low level planting to preserve sea views.

Sea

defe

nces

at

Sout

h Sh

ore,

Bla

ckpo

ol -

cou

rtes

y of

Ste

ve F

areh

am, 2

008

Example of sea defences incorporating steps / seating


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

31

New waterside deck

Lower terraces of new Clarence Pier building (see Option A)

Long Curtain Moat

Kings Bastion

Spur Redoubt

New tree planting

New boardwalk / route

New path to lookout

Long Curtain Moat car park

Extract of Figure 6 showing Long Curtain Moat and surrounds


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

32

2 Opportunities at Clarence Pier

The comprehensive redevelopment of Clarence Pier presents a fantastic opportunity to strengthen the role of this area as a destination for visitors. It is the one major redevelopment opportunity that could attract significant new private sector investment into the Seafront area.

A number of buildings in the vicinity of the Pier could provide a range of new attractions and recreation opportunities that generate activity and ‘bring life’ to the area during the day and evening, throughout the year.

High quality public spaces are also important and should promote ease of movement through the site, connecting Long Curtain Moat to the west with Southsea Common to the east.

Mix of uses – The mix of uses at Clarence Pier could include hotels (with associated conference facilities), cafes / restaurants, gallery spaces, music / performance spaces, amusements and other leisure uses, and a new hovercraft bus terminal and transport interchange. Funfair rides could also form a main attraction within Option B.

Active ground floor uses, such as high quality restaurants / cafes, amusements and small retail concessions will play a particularly important role in enlivening routes and public spaces.

The council may support some residential development where it can be clearly demonstrated that it is required to ensure the financial viability of comprehensive development and help to deliver other uses that contribute to economic growth. There will, however, remain considerable challenges to be overcome in respect of securing planning permission for an element of residential use of the site. New residential (and hotel) development must mitigate against the impacts of noise from both the hovercraft and adjoining leisure uses. Mitigation could be explored through the design of buildings and / or the arrangement of different uses on the site. The environmental sensitivity of strengthening or replacing the pier deck (if required to support new development on the site) must also be considered.

Important views and elevations - In addition to the general design principles set out in section 3.4, Clarence Pier’s prominent location requires that building elevations must respond to views from all angles. This includes:

• the northern approach and views from the Pier Road gateways;

• the eastern approach, along the Promenade / Clarence Esplanade from the direction of Southsea Common;

• the western approach from Long Curtain Moat and Kings Bastion, and

• the seaward elevation, to create a positive impression of the city for visitors arriving by sea.

It is important that all elevations are ‘strong’ and attractive. Curved facades would be encouraged. All development should be of a high architectural quality incorporating robust and attractive materials and finishes.

Pedestrian route through the site and public realm – The important pedestrian route through the site, linking Long Curtain Moat with the Promenade to Southsea Common and beyond, must be retained and enhanced. There should be ample opportunity for walkers, families / groups and joggers to simultaneously use this space.

Public spaces should be designed to work well with existing buildings and new development. Busy overlooked public spaces can benefit from a considerable degree of natural surveillance provided by a good mix of surrounding uses.


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

33

Nature conservation – Southsea Common has previously been identified as an important winter feeding site for Brent geese which are an internationally protected species. It is important that development at Clarence Pier does not reduce the effectiveness of the Common as a feeding site as a result of, for example, the design of buildings, overshadowing or light pollution. Developers should discuss this matter at an early stage with the city council’s ecologist and Natural England. This will ensure that, if necessary, effective design solutions can be found which enable development to go ahead, whilst not impacting on this protected species.

Access and servicing – Careful consideration must be given to providing safe ‘drop off points’ that enable those, particularly with mobility problems, to easily access new attractions and services at Clarence Pier. Servicing of new development must also be carefully designed in order to avoid conflict between modes of transport and to ensure a safe and attractive public realm. Access for maintenance vehicles through the site to Long Curtain Moat must also be retained.

Coastal defences – The redevelopment of Clarence Pier may present opportunities to incorporate / contribute toward the delivery of flood risk management measures and development should be designed (and located) to adapt to future coastal change (see also section 6.0 - Tidal Flood Risk).

Implementation – Land at Clarence Pier (including the funfair, the existing hovercraft terminal, hotel, public toilets and car park) is in several different ownerships which include the city council and a number of private landowners. In order to bring forward opportunities for the regeneration of this important area, two different design concepts are identified in the following sections. Option A would require more joint working between landowners than Option B.

The options do not show, in any detail, what buildings and public areas will look like. In order to submit a planning application for development at Clarence Pier, applicants would draw up more detailed plans based on the guidance in this masterplan.


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

34

A1 Hotel, leisure and transport terminal building

Pier

Roa

d

A2 Waterside deck – public space and route

A3 Clarence Pier kiosks

A4 Hover freight building and enlarged hoverpad

A5 Transport interchange area

A6 Clarence Pier car park

Long Curtain Road – maintained for access to car park and servicing of new development (along with servicing from Clarence Esplanade)

Clarence EsplanadeExtract of Figure 6 showing Clarence Pier

Design option A

This option represents the most comprehensive redevelopment opportunity at Clarence Pier and includes a new building incorporating a hotel, leisure uses and transport terminal.

Existing funfair rides to be removed

Long Curtain Road

Terraces of new building


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

35

A1 Hotel, leisure and transport interchange buildingAspirations and mix of uses – a landmark building could be developed on this site that incorporates a hotel (with ancillary conference / events facilities), leisure uses and new transport terminal / passenger facilities. Some residential use of the upper floors of the building may be supported (see p. 32 for further guidance).

Active ground floor uses, such as small retail concessions and high quality restaurant / cafes, will be important around the new transport interchange area to the north east and to the south where views out to sea could be enjoyed from the new waterside deck (see pp. 36) and 37.

Interchange facility – The mix of uses contained in the building should include a new hovercraft / bus interchange facility with welcoming and spacious passenger facilities. This should be situated at the eastern end of the site, adjacent to an enlarged hovercraft landing pad. A covered / partially enclosed walkway should provide a route from the building, to and from the landing pad.

The interchange facility should include, at ground floor level, a passenger seating area and travel information, ticketing facilities and public toilets. Cycle hire facilities could also be provided. The building could include additional attractions linked to the hovercraft service (such as information displays / museum) to draw in those

who visit the Seafront to watch the hovercrafts landing and taking off across the Solent.

Building design – Given the site’s prominent location, there may be an opportunity to create an iconic landmark building of high architectural quality at Clarence Pier. Proposals should have regard to policy PCS24 of the Portsmouth Plan and general guidance set out in the Tall Buildings SPD12 (see section 5.0), particularly given that the visual impact of any building in this location could be significant.

Taller elements of the building should be located at the junction with Pier Road and Clarence Esplanade, cascading down towards the west (Long Curtain Moat) and the sea to the south. Elevations should enliven the public realm with active ground floor uses fronting the new transport interchange and deck / public space. New development should encourage permeability and pedestrian flow. Building materials will need to be extremely robust.

Example of multi-functional waterside development (De La Warr Pavilion, Bexhill on Sea)

Phot

ogra

ph c

ourt

esy

of t

he D

e La

War

r Pa

vilio

n


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

36

Access points and entrances – Principal pedestrian access points and entrances should be from the new interchange area to the north / north east, from Clarence Esplanade to the east and from the new deck / public space to the south.

Parking and servicing – There is potential to provide additional public parking at the Clarence Pier car park (see p. 38). There may also be an opportunity to provide limited, integrated ground floor or partial ground floor parking within the complex, accessed from Long Curtain Road. This should be achieved sensitively so as to not interfere with the flow of vehicles accessing Long Curtain Moat car park. Servicing of the development should be from Clarence Esplanade / Long Curtain Road.

A2 Waterside deck – public space and route To the south of the new hotel, leisure and transport interchange building, a new deck / public space is proposed next to the sea. This deck would connect the Promenade from Long Curtain Moat to the west with that leading to Southsea Common to the east and would provide ‘spill out space’ for outdoor cafe / restaurant seating.

Public seating should also be provided in order for visitors to enjoy the sea views. The deck could include a dance floor, gallery / exhibition space and areas for play. Low level lighting of the deck would encourage evening use and public artwork and raised planters should be used to soften the deck.

Artist’s impressions of the new public deck

Examples of durable decking and street furniture


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

37

A3 Clarence Pier kiosks

A number of high quality, permanent retail / catering kiosks could be located on the deck space to serve visitors. Proposals for temporary kiosks / concession stands would not be supported in this area. The design of new kiosks should be of a high quality and should have regard to the guidance set out in section 3.4.

A4 Hover freight building and enlarged hoverpadTo support the future expansion and aspirations of Hovertravel, a separate single storey building is proposed at the eastern end of an enlarged hovercraft landing pad. This building will be used for hovercraft freight only and should be unimposing in scale. Servicing of the building (such as deliveries) must be designed to ensure that it does not interfere with the surrounding pedestrian environment.

Enlarged hoverpad and relocation of monuments – A larger footprint for the hoverpad

is needed to allow for improved landing and circulation capacity for hovercrafts. In order to allow for this expansion, three existing monuments on the Promenade will need to be moved to appropriate nearby locations. The Trafalgar Anchor could be relocated to Spur Redoubt and the remaining two monuments (Chesapeake and Peel) could move further east along the Promenade to the area around the Blue Reef Aquarium.

A5 Transport interchange area

A new transport interchange area would replace the current on-street facilities. Existing bus services will require eight stops at the

interchange, including one for the dedicated Hovertravel bus. There should also be a taxi rank and additional cycle parking. This should be located close to the transport terminal building and be designed to be safe to use, secure and weatherproof.

The interchange area should be a safe, high quality public environment. The layout of this space should be clear and accessible and its design should avoid any potential conflict between manoeuvring buses, taxis and private vehicles, and pedestrians and cyclists. Clear priority should be given to pedestrians by using wide pavements and priority crossings.

Example of quality kiosk / concession

Artist’s impressions of the new transport terminal (at foot of new hotel/leisure complex) with

freight terminal in foreground

Imag

e co

urte

sy o

f PL

C A

rchi

tect

s


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

38

Example of landscaping designed to partially screen double-tier car park (Queen Alexandra Hospital, Portsmouth)

A6 Clarence Pier car park

The car park in this location could be extended and re-arranged around the new transport interchange. At present the parking capacity is approximately 380 spaces. A redesigned footprint could provide approximately 30–40 additional spaces without encroaching onto the Common.

There could also be a further option to increase the capacity of this car park by incorporating underground parking or by creating a double-tier car park with the additional deck set back from the frontage of the ground floor level.

The design of any new parking facility should be of an extremely high quality, reflecting its prominent and sensitive location. It should be secure, well lit and safe to use. The car park structure could be ‘softened’ by partially screening it with trees and climber planting. Landscaping must not, however, restrict surveillance opportunities or obscure sight lines into and out of the car park.


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

39

B1 New hotelB7 Games Wharf

B5 Hover freight building and enlarged hoverpad

B6 Hovercraft viewing pier

B8 Clarence Pier north

B2 Pedestrianised plaza

B3 Transport interchange building

B4 Transport interchange area.

Design option B

This option involves the re-use or redevelopment of existing buildings, a new hotel, separate transport interchange building and new pedestrianised plaza. It also includes the enlarged hoverpad and hover freight building set out in Option A.

Long Curtain Road

Pier

Roa

d

Clarence Esplanade

Existing funfair could be retained


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

40

B1 New hotel

Development aspirations – Associated with a new transport interchange, there is an opportunity for a hotel on the upper floors of a new building at the end of Pier Road, to the south east of the new pedestrianised plaza.

At ground floor level, a mix of active uses should front the new plaza / public space and route through Clarence Pier to the south. This could include restaurants / cafes and other leisure uses such as amusements.

Building design – Given the site’s prominent location, there may be an opportunity for a landmark building on this site. Further guidance relating to opportunities for landmark buildings at Clarence Pier is set out in Option A.

The tallest elements of the building should be to the north and west, with the height of the building stepping down to the south east in order to reduce its ‘bulk’. All elevations will be important as the buildings will be viewed /approached from all directions.

Access points and entrances – Principal pedestrian access should be from the new pedestrianised plaza to the north and main route through the site to the south.

Parking and servicing – Servicing should be from Pier Road. Existing public parking at the Long Curtain Moat and Clarence Pier car parks will be retained.

B2 Pedestrianised plaza

Well designed and high quality public realm will be important to the successful regeneration of Clarence Pier as a whole. A new pedestrianised plaza could provide ‘spill out space’ for cafe / restaurants on the surrounding ground floor elevations of the hotel / leisure building. The plaza should be carefully laid out, utilising trees and street furniture to provide an attractive and practical space.

Public art would be encouraged in this location and secure cycle parking associated with the transport terminal should also be provided at the plaza’s eastern edge.

Access for emergency vehicles must be maintained across the plaza at all times. Out of hours access for vehicles servicing development at Clarence Pier may also be needed.

Example of multi-functional plaza space


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

41

Indicative scale and massing of Option B

B3 Transport interchange building

A ‘stand-alone’ transport interchange building could be accommodated to the south east of the new plaza, adjacent to a new interchange area. This building could be two-storeys in height with key access points and entrances from the plaza and interchange.

Guidance relating to the mix of uses to be included in this interchange building / facility can be found in Option A. It could also include a covered walkway to provide a sheltered route for passengers using the hovercraft but this should not disrupt pedestrian flow along the Promenade.


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Lo

ng

Cu

rtai

n M

oat

to

Cla

ren

ce P

ier

42

B4 Transport interchange area

To the east of the new interchange building, a new ‘on-street’ interchange area could be provided adjacent to the Clarence Pier car park.

Guidance relating to the facilities that should be provided within the interchange can be found in Option A.

B5 Hovercraft freight building and enlarged hoverpad

See Option A for guidance relating to this proposal.

B6 Hovercraft viewing pier

A new pier to the south of the deck could provide an excellent viewing platform for the hovercraft and other maritime activity on the Solent.

B7 Games wharf

The existing ‘games wharf’ to the north west of Clarence Pier Pavillion could be redeveloped to provide additional leisure and recreation facilities to support the viability of the site. The building should be a maximum of two storeys with principal entrances from the pedestrian route through the site and adjacent funfair area. Careful consideration must be given to elevations fronting the pedestrian route and those facing the sea to the south (including the need for active ground floor uses).

B8 Clarence Pier north

Development aspirations and mix of uses – This site, set between Long Curtain Road and the pedestrian route through Clarence Pier, is currently occupied by a mini golf course, large amusement arcade and hotel / pub. The comprehensive redevelopment of this site would be supported to include a mix of hotel, leisure and recreational uses.

Storey heights and elevations – Development of up to three storeys would be acceptable. Active ground floor uses on the southern elevation of buildings will be important in order to enliven the pedestrian route through the site and funfair area beyond.

Access and entrances – Pedestrian access should be from this main pedestrian route.

Parking and servicing – The Long Curtain car park will be retained for public parking. There may also be an opportunity to provide limited integrated ground floor or partial ground floor parking within the development, accessed from Long Curtain Road. This should be achieved sensitively so as to not interfere with the flow of vehicles accessing Long Curtain Moat car park. Servicing of the site should be from Long Curtain Road.


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Co

mm

on

43

Clockwise from right: Promenade / sea wall; Southsea Common; Ladies Mile; Southsea beach; Royal Naval War Memorial, Mozzarella Joes and aerial photo of Southsea Common area.

4.3 Southsea Common


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Co

mm

on

44

2 Mozzarella Joes

3 Royal Naval War Memorial

Southsea Common

6 Blue Reef Aquarium

4 Sculptural decks

5 Clarence Esplanade Kiosks

1 Promenade Improvements

7 Southsea Common gatewaysClarence Pier (see Section 4.2)

Figure 7 - Opportunities in the Southsea Common area


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Co

mm

on

45

Examples of beach front cafe seating

be necessary to raise the level of the Promenade in this location as part of coastal defence works.

To the east of the Royal Naval War Memorial, the Promenade could be widened and additional seating introduced for visitors using the new cluster of catering kiosks in this location. Low level lighting and artwork could provide additional interest and atmosphere.

2 Mozzarella Joes

There is an opportunity to reconfigure and provide a modest extension to the existing restaurant and decked area. This would take advantage of sea views and provide a year round attraction. Proposals should seek to enhance the external space with decked terraces for outdoor seating.

The entrance to the building should be highlighted by widening the Promenade in this location and using different textures / colours in surface detailing.

In this area of the Seafront there are opportunities to improve existing attractions such as the Blue Reef Aquarium and Mozzarella Joes (the existing restaurant), to provide permanent and temporary kiosks / concessions and to improve the Promenade and wider public realm.

1 Promenade improvements

To the east of Clarence Pier, the Promenade should be enhanced with new surfacing, incorporating an embedded pattern and low level lighting. In order to make room for the enlarged hover pad (see section 4.2), memorials in this location should be relocated to Spur Redoubt and to points further east along the Promenade as it heads towards the Blue Reef Aquarium. Derelict kiosks along this stretch of Promenade should be removed but the historic yellow shelter must be retained.

The long stretch of sea wall between Clarence Pier and the Blue Reef Aquarium would be replaced / rebuilt as part of improving coastal defences in this location (see section 3.2) and there is an opportunity to incorporate ‘feature’ marine influences into the design. As well as the small amphitheatre, seating should be incorporated into the wall on both sides to offer views of the Common and the sea. It may also


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Co

mm

on

46

3 Royal Naval War Memorial

The Royal Naval War Memorial is an important feature of the Seafront but pedestrian access from the Promenade across the busy Clarence Esplanade is difficult. There is an opportunity to improve access by narrowing the Esplanade and creating a pedestrian crossing between the Promenade and Memorial. Disabled access at the Memorial itself could also be improved.

4 Sculptural decks

Opposite the Royal Naval War Memorial, and as part of improving coastal defences (see section 3.2), there is an opportunity to introduce large timber or concrete decks that could step down gently from the main Promenade towards the shoreline. The decks would wrap around the seaward elevation of the new sea wall to provide a stepped walkway down to a lower promenade that runs along the base of the wall. The decks would be covered with sea water at high tide, creating an interesting and dynamic space (see also guidance relating to materials on p. 11).

Artist’s impressions of sculptural decks (above) and shoreline amphitheatre / lower Promenade improvements (below)


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Co

mm

on

47

5 Clarence Esplanade kiosks

As part of the improvements to the Promenade and sea wall to the south east of the Royal Naval War Memorial, there is a limited opportunity for a number of high quality food kiosks / concessions in this location.

The design of any temporary or permanent kiosks should make a positive contribution to the public realm in this area and should reflect the prominence and sensitivity of the location: opposite the Royal Naval War Memorial and adjacent to the busy Promenade (see also general guidance relating to the design of kiosks set out in section 3.4).

6 Blue Reef Aquarium

There is an opportunity to expand and enhance this attraction in a larger, extended building.

Building design – Any extension to the Blue Reef should be single storey. Principal access points and entrances should be from Clarence Esplanade.

Extending the building to the north would help to frame a new public space in this location and create a more welcoming entrance to the building. Any extension to the south east should be modest in scale and size so as not to detract from the western ramparts of Southsea Castle.

There is also an opportunity to improve the appearance / increase the use of the open space belonging to the Aquarium which lies to the south (rear) of the building. The area is clearly visible from the Castle ramparts and to pedestrians walking the route from the Castle, past bandstand field, to the Aquarium. Improvements should include replacing the existing boundary fence and generally creating a better relationship between this area and the Promenade to the south.

New public space west of the Aquarium

Extending the Blue Reef Aquarium building and proposed new sea defences (wall) could provide an opportunity to define a new public space to the west of the Aquarium (see p. 48).

The space could incorporate lighting features, new surfacing with creative paving detail, artwork, banners and possibly an interactive water feature. The area would create a strong focal point for visitors to the Seafront and would strengthen the entrance to the pedestrian route along the

Promenade as it heads east around the Southsea Castle headland.

Shoreline amphitheatre

This area would include ramps and steps which lead down to a new shoreline amphitheatre. This would be an intimate, informal performance space accessed via a new lower shoreline Promenade on the seaward side of the new sea wall (coastal defence).

7 Southsea Common gateways / routes

Serpentine Road / footpath

The existing Serpentine Road / footpath across Southsea Common should be enhanced with improved paving and the introduction of new tree planting at both the northern and southern entrances. Improving the gateway at the southern entrance to Pier Road should be incorporated into the wider proposals for a new public space west of the Blue Reef Aquarium.

Clarence Parade to Clarence Pier

The eastern entrance to the footpath between Clarence Parade and Clarence Pier should be marked with additional trees and other planting in order to highlight this important route across the Common. This will help to signpost people walking to the Seafront from Osborne Road / Western Parade.

Existing frontage of Blue Reef Aquarium


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Co

mm

on

48

Examples of paving detail and banners

Artist’s impression of new public space west of Blue Reef Aquarium


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Co

mm

on

49

Shoreline amphitheatre

New sea wall with integrated seating and lower walkway accessible at low tides

Entrance to Common enhanced with tree planting & pedestrian crossing points

New seating and paving details

New public space

Opportunity to revamp Aquarium building with improved frontage to embrace new public space to the west and improve the open space / boundary to the rear

Extract of Figure 7 showing area around Blue Reef Aquarium


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

50

Clockwise from right: Castle Approach; Clarence Esplanade; entrance to Rock Gardens; historic Promenade shelter; Promenade adjacent to bandstand field, and aerial photo of Southsea Common area.

4.4 Southsea Castle and surrounds


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

51

1 Southsea Castle

Southsea Common

5 New Sports Hub

8 Speakers Corner2 Castle

amphitheatre

3 D-Day Museum

7 Pyramids

6 Southsea Skatepark

4 Avenue de Caen gateways and route

Figure 8 - Opportunities at Southsea Castle and surrounds


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

52

1 Southsea Castle

Southsea castle is a jewel in Portsmouth’s maritime history and deserves a setting that reflects its significance. It is proposed that the pond outside the entrance to the Castle is replaced with interactive water jets set into the surface paving that could be lit in the evening to create atmosphere. This area could provide a flexible space for performances and events, as well as an area for visitors to linger and enjoy the Castle’s surroundings. At night, this space and the Castle could be lit for a ‘Son et Lumieres’ (sound and light show).

Interactive water jets to replace pond in front of castle

Tree planting as screen between D-Day Museum & Castle

Decorative railings to replace existing castle railings

Path and seating improvements to ramparts

Improvements to castle approach

Examples of water features and lighting

Artist’s impression of Castle area improvements

Imag

e us

ed u

nder

Cre

ativ

e C

omm

ons

from

Gra

ham

Jon

es. 2

008


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

53

Castle Approach

The long, formal Castle approach creates a dramatic sense of anticipation and this could be enhanced by ‘ramping down’ the pavement to a lower level as it nears the Castle, enabling the building to take on a more ‘imposing stature’. Banners at its northern end could herald the approach.

The large clock floral feature and shrubbery on the approach could be replaced with smaller raised beds set around a central art feature. Contemporary, Tudor style ‘knot planting’ (gardens) could be introduced along the approach using formal hedges and lower level flowers and perennials. Seating should also be incorporated along its length, set back in discreet alcoves amidst the planted gardens.

The existing memorial benches could be moved / relocated or the memorial plaques could be set into a memorial stone. Any proposals involving these benches would be subject to consultation with families.

Ramparts

The ramparts that surround the Castle provide great views across land and sea, and a good vantage point for appreciating the full setting of the Castle. Rampart footpaths and seating are in need of improvement and there is an opportunity to introduce additional signage to provide more information about the Castle.

The eastern ramparts could be enhanced with cliff planting to diversify the flora in this location. The railings around the Castle and ramparts should be replaced with railings that are robust and creative in design.

Promenade to rear of Castle

Around the rear of the Castle the Promenade should be resurfaced to create a level footpath and a more dynamic route that will draw people along the Seafront. Directly behind the Castle new seating should be introduced to take advantage of the unique views from this natural promontory. To the rear and east of the Castle, there is an opportunity to create a ramped lower level path that wraps around the waterfront and allows visitors to enjoy the changing tides. A new footpath could also be created to the east of the Castle linking the front and rear areas.

Example of Tudor style knot garden


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

54

Example of waterfront seating / coastal defence improvements

Artist’s impression of Castle amphitheatre Photograph courtesy of Wyre Borough Council

2 Castle amphitheatre

West of the Castle, the bandstand field is a popular venue for events at the Seafront. The bandstand is, however, small in size and the field is largely ‘unconnected’ to the sea. As part of works to strengthen coastal defences (see section 3.2), it may be necessary to raise the level of the Promenade in this location. This may provide an opportunity to create a ‘stepped’ amphitheatre that extends into the water. The low wall between the bandstand field and the Promenade could be removed allowing the entire area to ‘embrace’ the sea.

The bandstand itself could be replaced with a stronger feature, such as a new stage / sculpture, that acts as a focal point for performances and creates a strong link between the sea and land. If a larger performance area at bandstand field is pursued in the future, an alternative location in the city should be explored for the existing bandstand structure.

Given that this area would be partially covered by sea water at high tide, it may only offer limited opportunities as a performance space. (See also guidance relating to materials on p. 11.)

The design of proposals must take into account the way the area is currently used i.e. as a main pedestrian route / thoroughfare along the waterfront and as an events space (bandstand field). Access for maintenance vehicles must also be retained.


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

55

3 D-Day Museum

There is an opportunity to improve the setting of the D-Day museum by ‘opening up’ its entrance in order to better connect it to the junction with Avenue de Caen and provide clearer access to the approach to the Castle.

Access could be improved by reducing the road width in favour of pedestrians and improving crossing points. The frontage of the museum could also be enhanced with tall banners announcing its entrance that are highly visible from Clarence Parade.

A new cafe terrace should be formed to the south side of the D-Day museum. The relationship between Southsea Castle and the D-Day museum could be improved with tree planting between the two, which would partially screen the museum from the Castle and provide a sheltered area for the cafe terrace.

D-Day Museum

Pedestrian crossing

New cafe terrace with tree planting

New planting & seating to frame Castle approach

Improved entrance to Castle approach and museum

Extract of Figure 8 showing D-Day Museum and surrounds

Artist’s impression of entrance to Castle approach & D-Day Museum


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

56

4 Avenue de Caen gateways and route

Avenue de Caen is an important route from Southsea Castle to the entrance to Southsea town centre at the southern end of Palmerston Road. As part of creating a more attractive route, Avenue de Caen could be made one way (north bound), subject to the outcomes of an assessment of the impacts of this proposal on the surrounding road network. The road could be surfaced with sealed gravel. Existing parking spaces would remain.

To encourage the movement of people up the avenue towards the shops and restaurants of Southsea, banners and bold lighting could be used at its junction with Clarence Esplanade together with some innovative signage at key points along the route. The road could be narrowed at this important junction to slow traffic and improve pedestrian flow. On the southern (Day-Day Museum) side of Clarence Esplanade, removing the planted clock feature would ‘open out’ the area and better connect Avenue de Caen with the Castle approach.

At Avenue de Caen’s northern junction with Clarence Parade, the pedestrian route between the Avenue and Southsea town centre could be improved. There is an opportunity to introduce public art at the junction in order to highlight this important gateway to the Seafront.

The Avenue itself could be used as a location for car-boot sales and markets, including expanding the Southsea food festival, and for music and other street entertainment. By allowing this area to be used for temporary events, people will be

encouraged to walk along the route and discover the many high quality restaurants and retail outlets that Southsea town centre has to offer.

5 New Sports Hub

There is an opportunity to create a ‘sports hub’ to replace the existing Seafront Manager’s office, redundant tennis courts and ‘Little Tea House’ cafe. This would complement the existing tennis and beach volley ball courts, bowling greens, splash pool and nearby Southsea Skatepark. The city council is already working with the Lawn Tennis Association to improve the tennis facilities in this location. A cycle hub could also be located here, providing cycle maintenance, storage and hire facilities.

Mix of uses – An attractive new building should provide the focus for the sports hub and this could incorporate indoor sports facilities, a replacement cafe and office (management) facilities. Outdoors there could be space for a mix of sports and recreation uses including a

five-a-side football pitch, climbing wall and an adventure course such as Parkour.

Building design – Any new building should be single storey. Individual structural or decorative elements may extend above this level but should not visibly increase the bulk or mass of the buildings. The principal entrance / access to the building should be from Avenue de Caen. Key elevations must address Avenue de Caen and Clarence Esplanade. The design of any new building should reflect the site’s sensitive location within a Registered Park and Garden and Conservation Area.

Parking and servicing – On street parking is available along Avenue de Caen. Servicing of the development would also be from the avenue.

6 Southsea Skatepark

The Skatepark could be improved with a more transparent boundary treatment to replace the existing hedge and fence which currently block views in and out. This could be complemented by the incorporation of decorative artwork. There are also opportunities for more events at the Skatepark, to build upon events such as ‘Love Your Bike’ and BMX competitions, as well as improving the general environment inside the park. A footpath should be provided across the Common to link the Skatepark with the new Sports Hub to the east.

Avenue de Caen could be used as a location for markets and car boot sales


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

57

New Sports Hub

Skatepark

D-Day Museum car park

Splash-pool

D-Day Museum

The Sports Hub could include a new building and outdoor activities such as Parkour and a climbing wall

Extract of Figure 8 showing proposed new Sports Hub

Beach volleyball

Avenue de Caen – one way traffic and retained echelon parking

Parkour area and climbing wall

New footpath between Sports hub and Skatepark

New & existing tennis courts repositioned near tennis pavilion

New sports pitch / courts

New boundary to skatepark


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

58

Planting around the front

entrance could include palms

Rear of Pyramids where there is an opportunity for seating, lighting and public art

Pyramids Leisure Centre

Remove steps and create plaza at front entrance

New seating area

Additional path entrance to Rock Gardens from Promenade

Cafe hub on Speakers Corner site

Rock Gardens

Extract Figure 8 showing Pyramids and Speakers Corner

7 The Pyramids

The Pyramids Centre is a striking waterfront building and there is a fantastic opportunity to light up the building at night to create a strong focus for the Seafront area. Access to the building could be improved by lowering the stepped area to the front (north) and by introducing banners and additional tree planting (including hardy palm species) to create a plaza environment around its entrance.

On the seaward side (rear) of the Pyramids, there is an opportunity to create an area of seating which would be accessed from terraced steps / a ramp leading down from the Pyramids to ground level. Public art and lighting could also enhance this area.

Should the Pyramids site come forward for redevelopment, a number of uses may be considered including hotel / conference facilities, museum and/or gallery space or other leisure uses (possibly in conjunction with events at Castle Field). Proposals should include publicly accessible leisure facilities such as a swimming pool / water play. The site is not considered appropriate for residential use.


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

59

8 Speakers Corner

Key to the successful regeneration of the Seafront will be providing opportunities for a range of cafes and restaurants from which visitors can enjoy views across the Solent and to introduce other facilities / attractions that enhance the visitor experience. This will extend the tourist season and bring life to the Seafront during the evenings.

Speakers Corner, including the site of the existing Rocksbys, provides an opportunity for a new ‘cafe hub’ in a cluster of small buildings with attractive outdoor seating, new lifeguard facilities and showers / toilets (including disabled facilities).

Mix of uses – A variety of uses could be accommodated at Speakers Corner including small cafes / restaurants and food and drinks outlets (retail), lifeguard facilities, cycle hire and outdoor seating. It is proposed that a restaurant is retained on the site of the existing Rocksby’s cafe.

Design of buildings – Access points and entrances to new buildings should be provided from both the Promenade and Clarence Esplanade.

Given the prominence of Speakers Corner, all elevations of buildings will be important. Building design should incorporate ‘active frontage’ to enliven the public realm and pedestrian routes surrounding the site. Public spaces should be well overlooked by new development which

should also enhance the important pedestrian route linking Burgoyne Road with the Promenade.

Proposals that seek to improve the existing elevations of Rocksbys, to provide outdoor seating or for the complete redevelopment of the site to provide a new restaurant / cafe use in a high quality building would be welcomed. Principal elevations should face the Promenade and Speakers Corner and should seek to enhance and enliven the public realm in this location.

All new buildings at Speakers Corner / Rocksbys should be single storey. Individual structural or decorative elements may extend above this level but should not visibly increase the bulk or mass of the buildings.

Outdoor cafe seating could enhance this area


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

sea

Cas

tle

and

su

rro

un

ds

60

Artist’s impression of Speakers Corner - the design of buildings shown here is for illustrative pursposes only

New buildings should be made of high quality materials and should be robust enough to withstand the challenging environmental conditions, in particular the winds and saline atmosphere. The layout of new buildings should allow glimpses through to the sea from South Parade.

Parking and servicing – On street (metered) parking is available on Clarence Esplanade and South Parade. Servicing of development at Speakers Corner (including Rocksbys) should be

from Clarence Esplanade and must be carefully managed so as not to conflict with pedestrian or vehicular movement around the area.

Landscaping – A new public space enclosed (created) by the cluster of new buildings would provide a flexible area for cafe seating terraces and cycle racks. Tree planting would soften and enhance the space and provide shelter and shade but may be difficult to achieve in this exposed location. Hardy species (such as Sea Buckthorn and Tamarisk) should be used and

arranged amongst new buildings which may offer them some protection. It may be necessary to raise this space on a timber deck with steps and/or ramp for access to the Promenade. Suitable deck materials would be hardy timber with stainless steel and concrete.

West of Rocksbys there is an opportunity to create a new footpath linking the Promenade with the Rock Gardens to the north.


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

61

Clockwise from right: Canoe Lake; the former stores; the Rose Garden; South Parade Pier, Cumberland House Natural History Museum and aerial photo of the South Parade Pier & Canoe Lake area.

4.5 South Parade Pier and Canoe Lake


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

62

1 South Parade Pier

5 Promenade Cafe

7 Canoe Lake and surrounds

10 Lumps Fort / Rose Garden

11 Promenade south and east of Lumps Fort / Canoe Lake

3 Savoy buildings

2 South Parade Kiosks

4 South Parade and Promenade

6 Entrances to Canoe Lake

9 Cumberland House Museum

Figure 9 - Opportunities in the South Parade Pier and Canoe Lake area

8 Model Village


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

63

1 South Parade Pier

This is one of the key landmarks along the Seafront, acting as a ‘marker’ between its busier western and quieter eastern ends. There is a significant opportunity to revamp the pier and its buildings and to replace the existing amusements with high quality restaurants and an events venue that attract visitors all year round. This would be complemented by improvements to the Promenade and public realm at the entrance to the pier.

Mix of uses – Proposals to improve the pier structure and its buildings to provide quality restaurants / cafes and an events venue would be supported. New uses located at the end of the Pier that attract visitors would also be encouraged. This could include a funfair, with spectacular lighting, a restaurant or opportunities for temporary art exhibitions such

as wind sculptures. Care must be taken to avoid any potential conflict in the form of noise and disturbance to neighbouring occupiers.

2 South Parade kiosks

Kiosks will be encouraged in two clusters along the Promenade at locations to the east and west of South Parade Pier. The Promenade would be widened at these points to allow sufficient room for the kiosks on this busy route.

The design of kiosks should make a positive contribution to the public realm and should reflect the importance of this prominent location.

3 Savoy buildings

Opportunities for development may exist here but this site will be considered as part of the council’s emerging Site Allocations Document which forms part of the city’s Local Plan.

4 South Parade & Promenade

To the east and west of the Pier, and as part of works to strengthen coastal defences (see section 3.2), the Promenade could be transformed into a more dynamic space. There is an opportunity to reshape the walking route into a more winding one and these important sections of Promenade would also benefit from high quality paving and seating, hardy maritime planting and low level lighting. Banners and sculpture / art interventions would create focal points and help to ‘break up’ the Promenade. New steps and ramps should be introduced leading down to the beach and to the road, which will help to improve access to the waterfront. Changes in ground level can present a challenge but can also be an opportunity to add interest, for example, wide steps in some locations could also act as informal seating.

Phot

ogra

ph c

ourt

esy

of B

lack

pool

City

Cou

ncil


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

64

South Parade Pier

Canoe Lake

Extract of Figure 9 showing South Parade & west entrance to Canoe Lake

Funfair or feature installation such as wind sculptures at end of Pier

Promenade interventions such as art / sculpture /shelters

Step and ramp access to beach

Widened access to sides of Pier

Widened promenade with planting, seating and opportunities for kiosks

Pedestrian crossing point with ramps and steps up to Promenade

New Promenade Cafe

Extended plaza area at western entrance to Canoe Lake

New island with relocated bus stops

Possible new beach huts

Possible new catering kiosk


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

65

Examples of appropriate seating and planting

Safe crossing point

Tree planting to add vertical structure and greenery to streetfront

New Promenade cafe

Dynamic promenade with new surface, seating and grand steps / ramp to beach

Artist’s impression of Promenade and South Parade

Canoe Lake

Dover Esplanade - courtesy of architects Tonkin Liu (Robbie Polley)


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

66

5 Promenade Cafe

There is an opportunity to create a new cafe building opposite the improved ‘plaza’ entrance to Canoe Lake following the demolition / removal of the existing kiosks in this location. Public toilets and showers could be included within the design of any new building.

Building design – Principal access points and entrances should be from Southsea Esplanade. All the elevations of the building will be important since it will be viewed from all angles. The positioning of windows and doors on the north elevation should enliven the Esplanade and create interest along this important route. There is also an opportunity to create a terrace

eating area on the beach side (south) of the cafe to allow diners to take advantage of the sea views.

The building should be single storey. Individual structural or decorative elements may extend above but should not visibly increase the bulk or mass of the building.

6 Entrances to Canoe Lake

There is an opportunity to enhance the western entrance to Canoe Lake in order to make it easier for people to cross the road to the Promenade / South Parade Pier. By relocating bus stands slightly to the west and rearranging them around a new central island, a pedestrian friendly plaza area could be created between Canoe Lake and the

Esplanade, forming a new entrance to Canoe Lake. This space should include cycle stands, new tree planting and public art. A safe crossing to the Promenade would also help to slow down traffic and encourage a more pedestrian and cycle-friendly environment. Suitable surface materials could include small scale paving / high quality stone.

In addition to the opportunities at the western entrance to Canoe Lake, the two entrances from St Helens Parade should be better highlighted / enhanced with new signage, planting, information boards and pedestrian crossing points.

Artist’s impression of Promenade Cafe. Building elevations to the north and south should allow views in and out


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

67

7 Canoe Lake & surrounds

Canoe Lake has a unique charm and is well used, particularly during the summer months. There are, however, opportunities to enhance this area in order for it to achieve its full potential as a Seafront attraction. The existing cafe and associated buildings are in need of improvement and offer the best opportunity to provide a number of new uses that complement the park during the day and into the evening.

Canoe Lake cafe / restaurant

The existing cafe at the north-eastern edge of the lake could be redeveloped to provide a new, high quality cafe / restaurant in this location.

Building design – The new building should address the lake and play areas / open spaces to the south and west. A two-storey building may be acceptable if it is of a high architectural quality and is sensitively designed.

Former stores

The former stores buildings could be re-used (which would be the city council’s first preference) or redeveloped to provide an additional cafe. The site could also provide a community building, such as a venue that could be hired for children’s parties. If the former stores are to be replaced, new development should be single storey. Individual structural or decorative elements may extend higher but should not visibly increase the bulk or mass of new buildings. If the existing café and former stores are developed independently, it will be important that they share a common

architectural ‘language’ in terms of their character, form and materials used. The design of any new development should seek to frame the entrance through to Cumberland House Museum. Landscaping around buildings in this location should include planting and seating.

Around the lake

There is an opportunity to improve the paving around the edge of the lake and the introduction of discreet lighting and water features would be encouraged to enhance the lake’s setting, particularly in the evening. A timber boardwalk out onto the lake could be created at its north eastern end for crabbing / dipping. Clusters of hardy trees planted on the large area of grass to the south east of the lake would provide shelter and shade for picnickers and create visual interest.

There may also be an opportunity for a permanent catering kiosk to the south east of Canoe Lake (close to the Esplanade, between the western entrance and car park) which should complement / expand on the existing range of food and drink outlets and others proposed in this area.

Sports and play

The park offers a range of sports and play activities. The existing adventure and water play areas could be enhanced with a mix of natural and traditional play features by extending the play area to the south west. A seaside theme or character would be encouraged. There is also an opportunity to add to the existing gym equipment to create an ‘outdoor gym trail’

around the park. A separate piece of work is underway to look at the future of the bowling greens and grass tennis courts at Canoe Lake. This will include exploring alternative uses that might broaden the area’s appeal.

Canoe Lake car park and footpath

The hard surface of the existing car park could be softened by new tree planting. Any spaces lost could be reprovided by extending the car park to the east and by improving the layout of parking. A new footpath along the north and west of the car park is proposed in order to improve pedestrian access to the park and play area around Canoe Lake, and to Lumps Fort and the Rose Garden.

Canoe Lake car park viewed from Model Village


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

68

8 The Model Village

Access and signposting to Southsea Model Village could be greatly improved. The proposed new east-west footpath running along the southern edge of Lumps Fort will provide a clear route to the village. Better signage around Canoe Lake should point visitors to the village entrance, which is somewhat hidden behind the adjacent play area. Low level lighting of the viewpoint could also highlight this attraction. The boundary of the Model Village could also be improved by replacing the unsightly railings that currently surround it. An alternative community or leisure use for the site may be considered, which must be in keeping with this sensitive location.

Bowling greens

Canoe Lake

Opportunities for new gym trail through park

Extract of Figure 9 showing Canoe Lake & surrounds

Play Area

Entrance to Model Village

New cafe / restaurant and terrace

Possible boardwalk onto lake

Cumberland House Museum – improved butterfly house and access to garden

New cafe and seating terrace

Community garden

Tree planting clusters in green space

Opportunities for new play equipment

New footpath to north and west of car park

Improved boundary around Model Village


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

69

9 Cumberland House Museum

Cumberland House Natural History Museum is an important asset which should be preserved and enhanced. The walled garden is a particularly important feature, providing visitors with somewhere to enjoy peace and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of Canoe Lake. The garden is currently under-used and could benefit from a better relationship with the museum building. Events such as outdoor theatre or the creation of a sensory garden may enourage more use of this area. The butterfly house would benefit from upgrading and this work should also aim to create a better relationship with the garden.

There may be an opportunity to consider a modest cafe as a refurbishment / extension of the museum and / or to utilise the garden as an area for outdoor cafe seating. To the east of the museum, on land that was under-utilised, planning permission has been granted for a community garden for the cultivation of fruit, vegetables and other plants, and for a small structure to provide storage / a shop to sell produce grown on the site.

10 Lumps Fort / Rose Garden

Lumps Fort

The entrance to Lumps Fort from Southsea Esplanade could be improved. There is an opportunity to use public art as a focal piece at this southern entrance, which should reflect /

interpret the historic context of the location. New tree planting would be encouraged to provide shelter and ‘vertical form’ but planting should not block views through to the Seafront or obscure the entrance to Lumps Fort.

New footpaths running east to west along the southern edge of Lumps Fort, and better signage, will provide clear routes to Canoe Lake and Southsea Model Village, and to the Rose Garden and footpaths east of the Fort (that link the Promenade with St Helens Parade to the north).

Rose Garden

The Rose Garden is a hidden gem, providing a welcome retreat for visitors and a shelter from the sea winds. It has attractive rose beds and a pergola structure with seating all around its

edge, and intimate seating alcoves tucked within the fortifications.

The existing Fort building to the north of the Garden, which is currently used for storage, could be re-used as a venue for special events / community hire and/or a cafe / tea rooms. The Garden itself could offer an intimate setting for a limited programme of acoustic performances (such as a string quartet), but the the overall peaceful ambience and existing layout of the Garden should remain intact. The linked Japanese Garden could be improved with new planting and materials to strengthen its character.

Cumberland House Garden


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

70

Beach huts at Lumps Fort / east of Pier

As part of enhancing the entrance to Lumps Fort / the Rose Garden, the existing ‘tired’ beach huts either side of the footpath should be replaced, and arranged along the new footpath to the south of Lumps Fort.

There may also be an opportunity to provide new huts on the beach to the east of South Parade Pier and the proposed Promenade Cafe.

Tree planting and new pathways with attractive new beach huts

New steps to Lumps Fort viewpoints and footbridge link across top

Public artwork to herald enhanced entrance

Remove obsolete fencing and improve boundary around Model Village and Lumps Fort

Existing view of Lumps Fort entrance

Artist’s impression of Lumps Fort entrance

Entrance to Rose Garden


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

71

New community venue / cafe / tea rooms to make use of derelict building

Small (acoustic) concerts / perfomances could take place in the Rose Garden

Existing views of Rose Garden

Artist’s impression of Rose Garden (same viewpoint as above photo)


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

So

uth

Par

ade

Pier

an

d C

ano

e La

ke

72

11 Promenade south and east of Lumps Fort

Pedestrian access to the Promenade from the south and east of Canoe Lake / Lumps Fort could be improved. New crossings are proposed, with road narrowing at key points using planting beds. These could create natural focus points along the Promenade at which to provide public artwork, heralding arrival at the sea and the gateway to Canoe Lake and its surrounds.

Coastal defence work would also present an opportunity to create a far more dynamic Seafront experience on the Promenade east of Lumps Fort, where the sea wall begins. The shape of the wall between the road and the Promenade could be varied using a curved design that incorporates seating ‘nooks’, low level lighting and planting in beds. This would act as a buffer between the sea and the road. Access to the beach would be via large steps / ramps in a curved form to complement the Promenade, with planting beds integrated on each side.

Existing Promenade, Esplanade & sea wall

Artists impression of Promenade improvements


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Eas

tney

Bea

ch

73

Clockwise from right: Coffee Cup kiosk; public toilets at Eastney; entrance to Langstone Harbour; Fort Cumberland, Eastney beach and aerial photo of Eastney Beach area.

4.6 Eastney Beach


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Eas

tney

Bea

ch

74

Fort Cumberland

Golf course

7 Ferry Road

1 St Georges Road gateway

3 Eco Cafe / Watersports Hub and surrounds

5 Eastney Swimming Pool

6 Fort Cumberland and surrounds

Eastney Barracks

Local Wildlife Site

Caravan Park

Southsea Marina

Figure 10 - Opportunities at Eastney Beach

2 Royal Marines Museum

Opportunity for covered shelter with seating on Promenade

New route around Fort Cumberland - Langstone Harbour Coastal Path

4 Eastney beach huts and boardwalks

Local Wildlife Site


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Eas

tney

Bea

ch

75

Eastney Beach character area

Eastney Beach is quieter and less developed than the other five character areas that make up the Seafront, and provides an opportunity for visitors to ‘escape’. New development and public realm improvements in this area must not detract from the ‘informal’ and tranquil atmosphere that visitors so highly value. Other than the opportunities identified in the paragraphs below, additional proposals for kiosks / concessions in this area would not be supported.

1 St Georges Road gateway

The junction at St George’s Road and the Esplanade is a key gateway to the eastern end of the Seafront. This junction could be changed to a roundabout to promote traffic calming

along the Esplanade. The new roundabout could incorporate low level planting and public art which preserve the sea views from St George’s Road. Together with additional build outs and landscaping outside the public toilets on the north east corner of the junction, this would provide a more pedestrian friendly crossing point to the Promenade. The cycle path in this location would need to be reconfigured.

2 Royal Marines Museum

In the future, the release of Ministry of Defence (MoD) land at the Dockyard may create an opportunity to relocate the Royal Marines Museum to this location. In this instance, there is an opportunity to re-use this impressive Grade II listed building as a hotel with associated conference / events facilities. Proposals must be

carefully designed to respect the surrounding historic environment and protect adjacent residential uses to the west of the Museum.

The entrance to the Royal Marines Museum could be made more prominent by introducing signage, planting and / or artwork. These improvements should seek to frame the entrance and better signpost visitors into the attraction from the Esplanade / Promenade. Widening the Promenade to the south of the entrance would encourage movement between the Museum and the sea (this would involve relocating the exiting bus stop in this location slightly to the east or west).

Suggested character of buildings, beach huts and boardwalks. Courtesy of architects Tonkin Liu (Mike Tonkin)


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Eas

tney

Bea

ch

76

3 Eco Cafe / Watersports Hub and surrounds

At the eastern end of the Promenade (currently the site of public toilets south of Eastney Swimming Pool), there is an opportunity for a building of innovative design to provide a new cafe / restaurant and watersports hub.

The site sits in a prominent location at the eastern end of the Esplanade and forms a natural focus point for the area. The topography of the site means that there is an opportunity to take advantage of the higher ground to its rear (north) where a roof / cafe terrace would afford magnificent views across the Solent

This part of the Seafront is popular with those wanting to wind surf and enjoy other water sports and this is something that the city council would like to develop further by supporting a facility for windsurfers, kayakers and canoeing enthusiasts etc. The site also also provides a gateway to the more remote section of Eastney Beach beyond.

Mix of uses – In addition to a high quality cafe, the building could accommodate a meeting space for local clubs and groups which could also be used for training / teaching. A small retail outlet and a workshop for carrying out emergency repairs could also be considered. Storage space for watersports equipment should be provided and this could be incorporated into the building at ground level, allowing easy access from the beach / seaward side, along with outdoor showers, a changing room and public toilets. Due to the proximity of residential development, it is not

intended that the watersports hub be used to launch jet skis.

Building design – Principal access points / entrances to the building should be from Henderson Road / the Esplanade. The building should be single storey with a roof / cafe terrace, including seating. Individual two-storey elements may be appropriate in order to provide shelter for the terrace area. The terrace could also extend onto the green space to the south and east of the swimming pool, which could be used for picnicking and play. The existing concrete structure in this location, associated with World War II defences, should be retained

Due to its proximity to the local wildlife site, the design of the building should be ‘ecological’ in its approach. One design option could be to partially ‘tuck’ the building into the land, with a grassed area / planting wrapping over the top of it (see image above). Key elevations must address the Esplanade and Promenade to the west and should provide a welcoming entrance for visitors.

Nature conservation - The location of the Eco Cafe / Watersports hub is close to an important winter roost site for Dunlin and Ringed Plover, both of which are internationally protected bird species. To ensure that the construction of the facility does not impact on the birds’ ability to use

Phot

ogra

ph c

ourt

esy

of C

hris

Bro

wn,

201

2


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Eas

tney

Bea

ch

77

the nearby roost site, construction will need to take place outside of the November - February period.

Parking and servicing – Servicing of the Hub would be via the Esplanade. Access should be provided for cars and trailers to ‘pull in and drop off’ equipment before parking. On street (metered) parking is available along the Esplanade.

Access to the Beach – Access to the beach from the site of the new cafe could be improved by removing fencing to the east and introducing wide steps / a ramp leading down from the new picnic / play area directly onto the beach. Similarly, at the Promenade / Esplanade entrance to the cafe, wide steps / a ramp leading down to the beach should also be introduced to improve access.

4 Eastney beach huts and boardwalks

New beach huts could be provided in ‘curved clusters’ with timber boardwalks to the south. Care must be taken to maintain views through the beach huts to the sea and access (via ramps / steps) from the Promenade down onto the beach.

As with the Eco cafe / Watersports Hub, the location of the beach huts is close to the important winter roost site for wading birds and therefore construction of the huts will need to take place outside of the November - February period.

People using the new beach huts could also cause disturbance to birds and reduce the effectiveness of this location as a roost site. A strategy for avoiding / mitigating against this impact must form part of any planning application. Potential avoidance / mitigation measures could include (but may not be limited to):

• prohibiting dogs not on a lead on this part of Eastney beach during the winter (this is already the case during the summer);

• providing information to new beach hut tenants about the biodoversity of Eastney Beach and how they can help to preserve this special area, and/or

• requiring new beach hut tenants to sign up to a ‘code of conduct’ setting out expectations of the way in which they should use the area and respect its particular sensitivities.

The proposed strategy should be discussed at the earliest opportunity with the city council’s ecologist and Natural England.

Informal sports - To complement the new Eco Cafe / Watersports Hub, there may also be an opportunity to encourage informal sports, such as volleyball, on the grassed area of beach to the west of the existing beach huts.


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Eas

tney

Bea

ch

78

Suggested character of Eco Cafe / Watersports Hub and surrounds


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Eas

tney

Bea

ch

79

Shingle beach

Mean High Tide

Road

Hen

ders

on

Melville Road

Cockleshell Community Centre

Eastney Swimming Pool Caravan Park

facilitiesNew beach huts in curved formation with timber boardwalks

Ramp and steps down to beach

New Eco Cafe / Watersports Hub building with adjoining picnic area, incorporating toilets and green roof / roof terrace

Grass picnic and play area with new tree planting and fences removed

Road narrowing to allow enlarged frontage with ramp and wider steps to pool building. Boundary fencing removed

Crossing point with pedestrian priority

Extracts of Figure 10 showing Eco Cafe and surrounds

Esplanade

Driftwood H

ende

rson

Ro

ad

Royal Marines Museum

Gardens

The layout of beach huts shown here is for illustrative purposes only

New Eco Cafe / Watersports Hub


Key

op

po

rtu

nit

ies:

Eas

tney

Bea

ch

80

Green space south and east of swimming pool could be used for picnicking and play

5 Eastney Swimming Pool

Pedestrian access into the swimming pool could be improved by narrowing the width of Henderson Road to create a wider entrance, and providing wider steps and ramped access down to the building. The boundary of the swimming pool should be improved to enable a footpath link through the swimming pool site to the new Eco Café and enhanced picnic / play area and beach.

6 Fort Cumberland and surrounds

Other subtle improvements could be made to the more remote section of Eastney Beach in order to improve access to, and ease of movement around, Fort Cumberland (a scheduled ancient monument). Existing footpaths, car parks and boundary treatments in this location should be enhanced to create a more attractive environment, while retaining the area’s informal character.

Robust timber posts or boulders could be introduced to delineate car park boundaries and entrances and better signage / information should direct visitors around this area and to other parts of the Seafront. The surfacing of car parks and footpaths should be improved to create more

even surfaces. Materials used should remain ‘informal’, for example gravel or shingle.

Robust timber seating should be introduced at key locations and the provision of waste bins will be strongly encouraged to deter littering in this sensitive location.

There is also an opportunity to create a new route around Fort Cumberland to enable walkers to access this part of the coast at high tide. Land for the Langstone Harbour Coastal Path will be allocated as part of the city’s Site Allocations Document (which forms part of the Local Plan).

The footpath between Fraser Range and Southsea Holiday Park should also be improved to provide a safe and accessible route to the beach from the car park and open space associated with Fort Cumberland. Again, materials such as gravel or shingle would be appropriate, alongside new timber signage. The entrance to Fort Cumberland could be enhanced with better signage / information and fencing. Views of the harbour and marina at the end of the point should be preserved and additional ‘informal’ seating would be encouraged.

Dartford Warblers are known to use this area, attracted by the heathland and gorse which grows here. This is a rare and internationally protected bird species. As a result, before any improvement works take place, ecological advice should be sought to ensure that the area’s suitability for this species would not be reduced.

7 Ferry Road

While it is important that it retains its informal character, there is an opportunity to improve the general environment at Ferry Road (between Southsea Marina and the Hayling Ferry). This could include improving the appearance of the houseboat area, ‘formalising’ the slipway in terms of access and signage and establishing a permanent / expanded food and drink kiosk. Interpretation boards could also highlight local wildlife and the remains of the Phoenix caisson / breakwater, originally constructed during World War II as part of the artificial Mulberry Harbours. .


Plan

nin

g p

olic

ies

81

National planning policyProposals must consider the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)13 which: encourages sustainable development that contributes to building a strong, responsive and competitive economy; supports vibrant and healthy communities, and contributes to protecting and enhancing the natural, built and historic environment.

Local planning policyThe local planning policy context is provided by The Portsmouth Plan2, the city’s Core Strategy, which was adopted by the council on 24th January 2012. This SPD provides further detailed guidance about how Policy PCS9 (The Seafront) of the Portsmouth Plan will be implemented.

Other policies that are relevant to proposals for the Seafront area are set out in this section.

Design quality

All new development should be of the highest possible quality, both of itself and in relation to adjoining buildings and spaces. The design of any new development should respect local context, detailing and layout, and should relate well to its surrounding environment (see Policies PCS23, PCS24 of the Portsmouth Plan and city council’s Tall Buildings SPD12).

Historic townscape and cultural heritage

New development must protect and enhance the historic and cultural townscape of the Seafront area. Policy PCS23 requires that development relates well to conservation areas, listed buildings, locally listed buildings and scheduled ancient monuments at the Seafront.

Proposals should also have regard to Policy PCS13 relating to protected trees and the requirements of The Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990.

Open Space

A significant proportion of the Seafront area is protected as ‘open space’ by Policy PCS13.

Transport

Traffic generation and parking (see Policy PCS17) are often the most critical aspects in determining the acceptability of proposals for new development. PCS17 requires that all new development should demonstrate how it can reduce the need to travel by car and encourage more sustainable methods of transport.

Parking provision

Parking standards for non-residential uses and cycles are set out in ‘saved’ Appendix 9 of the City Local Plan14 and those for residential uses in the council’s Residential Parking Standards SPD15.

Affordable housing

Policy PCS19 also applies and this policy states that the council will seek to secure the provision of affordable housing on all sites providing a net increase of 8 or more dwellings.

The city council’s first preference is for affordable housing to be provided on site and pepper potted throughout the site. Further guidance on this policy can be found in the adopted Housing Standards SPD16.

Sustainability, biodiversity and green infrastructure

All proposals should respond positively to issues of sustainable development, for example by incorporating green or ‘living’ surfaces in new buildings (such as green roofs), Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, solar hot water systems and/or photovoltaic cells. Water efficiency measures should also be incorporated into all proposals. A variety of other methods for enhancing urban biodiversity should also be considered such as the use of native species in areas of amenity planting.

Policy PCS15 of The Portsmouth Plan requires that all new residential development meets specific levels of the Code for Sustainable Homes while commercial development must meet a BREEAM ‘excellent’ standard. Further guidance is set out in the council’s Sustainable

5.0 Planning policies


Plan

nin

g p

olic

ies

82

Design and Construction SPD17. The council also encourages proposals for new housing to be assessed against CABE’s Building for Life standards.

Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA)

The city council has assessed the proposals in this plan, in collaboration with Natural England, to make sure that they will not have a detrimental impact on nearby sites that have been designated at the European level for their nature conservation importance, such as Langstone and Portsmouth Harbours. This process is known as a Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA)4.

In addition to this, a number of the proposals set out in sections 4.1 to 4.6 will require an ecological assessment. As the detail of their development emerges, applicants should seek early advice from the city council’s ecologist and Natural England.

Waste water pumping station

Policy PCS16 and Appendix 2 of the Portsmouth Plan identifies an area of search for a new wastewater pumping station and out-fall. The area of search overlaps with a large proportion of the area covered by this masterplan. The pumping station and outfall is identified as critical infrastructure, and would provide additional pumping capacity in Portsmouth to increase the level of flood protection. Land requirements to deliver this infrastructure would

need to be considered when further information is available from Southern Water.

Tidal flood risk

It is important that new development at the Seafront is safe from flooding over its lifetime. The adopted Portsea Island Coastal Defence Strategy Study proposes works to sea defences throughout the Seafront area. All development proposals at the Seafront must have regard to Policy PCS12 (Flood Risk) of the Portsmouth Plan.

Sewerage Infrastructure

Development and redevelopment at the Seafront will only be permitted if the necessary sewerage capacity is available, or is provided in time to serve it (see Policy PCS12 of the Portsmouth Plan).

Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)

CIL will be collected by the council in respect of new development at the Seafront. This money will be used to fund new infrastructure throughout the city. The CIL charging schedule18 can be found at www.portsmouth.gov.uk/living/20443.htm

Agreements made under section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (S106) will be used to secure affordable housing and local infrastructure requirements linked to individual development sites (such as connecting to services / utilities).

Other

The city council has an ongoing highway management contract with Ensign Highways Ltd. that passes responsibility for the maintenance of the city’s highway network to Ensign. The council must make allowance for any potential increase in highway maintenance liabilities that works in the Seafront area may generate. Developer contributions will be sought for any increased highway maintenance liabilities generated by such works.


Co

ncl

usi

on

an

d im

ple

men

tati

on

83

This masterplan demonstrates that the council is committed to enhancing and improving the Seafront.

The document provides a foundation for investment and change by identifying a vision for the area. It will provide landowners and developers with guidance about what would be appropriate at the Seafront and how proposals will be assessed.

The city council has a major role to play in delivering public realm improvements at the Seafront as much of the land in the area is within its ownership. The council cannot, however, deliver all the proposals outlined in this plan on its own and will work with other stakeholders across the private and public sectors to realise the vision for the area. Close collaboration and partnership working with investors and landowners will also be required.

The council will be dependent on external funding to deliver the changes set out in this plan. It is anticipated that some of the works to the Promenade will be incorporated into the

planned Coastal Defence Programme. Some proposals involving improvements to transport and highways may be incorporated into the city’s Local Transport Plan. The city council has already secured Local Sustainable Transport Funding (LSTF) which will be used to deliver wayfinding signs (including totems), improved cycle parking at the Hovercraft terminal, the new section of Shiprights Way cycle route and the extension of the Millennium Walk to Southsea Castle, including interpretation panels.

Other proposals contained in the masterplan could attract grants from Lottery funding bodies such as Heritage and Sports. Funding may also come from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). There may also be sponsorship opportunities: consultation on the plan suggested a possible ‘Walk of Fame’ commemorating the city’s famous residents which could be sponsored in the same way as the Swanage Pier Trust runs its ‘Sponsor a Plank’ scheme to raise funds for pier renovation and maintenance.

Not all the opportunities will be realised immediately. The masterplan has a vision of 15 years and it is anticipated that the projects identified in this plan will be delivered as and when funding opportunities allow.

Table 1 sets outs the key development / public realm opportunities and lead implementation partners, together with a possible timescale identifying either short (up to 5 years), medium (5 to 10 years) or long (10 years plus) term prospects for delivery.

6.0 Conclusion and implementation


Co

ncl

usi

on

an

d im

ple

men

tati

on

84

Opportunity site Lead implementation partner TimescaleThe ARTches (Point Battery) Occupiers of arch spaces / City Council Short termClarence Pier complex Private landowners, leaseholders, City Council Medium-long termMozzarella Joes Private landowner Short-medium termBlue Reef Aquarium Private landowner Medium termCastle Amphitheatre City Council Medium-long termNew Sports Hub Private operator / City Council Short-medium termSkatepark Operator / City Council Short-medium termSpeakers Corner Private operator / City Council Medium-long termSouth Parade Pier Private landowner Medium-long termSouth Parade – Promenade Cafe City Council Short-medium termCanoe Lake area (including Cumberland House) Private operator / City Council Short-medium termRose Garden City Council Medium-long termEco Cafe / Watersports Hub Private operator / City Council Short-medium termEastney Swimming Pool City Council Short-medium term

Public realm improvements (all Portsmouth City Council) TimescaleOld Portsmouth Artwork and signage Short-Medium term

Southsea CommonPromenade, sea defences, kiosks, sculptural decks, shoreline amphitheatre

Medium-long term

Southsea CastleCastle approach and surrounding ramparts, Castle amphitheatre / bandstand field

Medium-long term

D-Day Museum Entrance, road works, rear cafe and tree planting Medium-long termAvenue de Caen Road works, lighting, planting Medium-long termPyramids Centre Areas in front and to the rear of building Short-medium term

South ParadeRoad and promenade including seating, planting, ramps, steps, crossings, artwork and relocation of bus stops

Medium-long term

Canoe Lake Park Play, sports and planting improvements Short-medium termLumps Fort / Rose Garden / Model Village Improving entrance and boundary Medium-long term

Other public realmSignage / wayfinding / interpretation

Car parks, footpaths and boundary treatments

Short-medium term

Medium-long term


Seaf

ron

t m

aste

rpla

n

85

1. Southsea Seafront Strategy 2010-2026. Portsmouth City Council, 2010.

2. The Portsmouth Plan, Portsmouth’s Core Strategy. Portsmouth City Council, January 2012.

3. Sustainability Appraisal Report - Seafront Masterplan (Supplementary Planning Document). Portsmouth City Council, March 2013.

4. Habitats Regulations Assessment of the Seafront Masterplan (Supplementary Planning Document). Portsmouth City Council, February 2013.

5. Landscape Character Assessment - Portsea Island Coastal Defence Flood Risk Areas. Portsmouth City Council, 2012.

6. Portsea Island Coastal Strategy Study. Portsmouth City Council / Environment Agency. Adopted by the city council in July 2009 and approved by DEFRA in May 2012..

7. Reducing Crime Through Design, Supplementary Planning Document. Portsmouth City Council, 2006.

8. Protecting Crowded Places: Design and Technical Issues. The Home Office / Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure and the National Counter-Terrorism Security Office, 2012.

9. Crowded Places: The Planning System and Counter-Terrorism. The Home Office / Department for Communities and Local Government, 2012.

10. Portsmouth Local Transport Plan 3. Portsmouth City Council, April 2011.

11. The Hard, Supplementary Planning Document. Portsmouth City Council, March 2012.

12. Tall Buildings, Supplementary Planning Document. Portsmouth City Council, March 2012.

13. National Planning Policy Framework. Department for Communities and Local Government, March 2012.

14. Portsmouth City Local Plan 2001-2011. Portsmouth City Council, July 2006.

15. Residential Parking Standards, Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). Portsmouth City Council, November 2008.

16. Housing Standards, Supplementary Planning Document. Portsmouth City Council, February 2013.

17. Sustainable Design and Construction, Supplementary Planning Document. Portsmouth City Council, February 2013.

18. Community Infrastructure Levy charging schedule. Portsmouth City Council, January 2012.

7.0 References

You can get this Portsmouth City Council information in large print, Braille, audio or in another language by calling 9283 4322.

ä àå ã

Price: £10.00

Seafront masterplan - Portsmouth · 3.2 Coastal defences ... communities and all those involved in...

Documents

Transcript of Seafront masterplan - Portsmouth · 3.2 Coastal defences ... communities and all those involved in...