CLG published the Thames Gateway Delivery Plan in November 2007 and the document unveiled Government’s strategy for the development of the Gateway over the next 3 years. Within this document, the Parklands strategy was unveiled which will ‘celebrate and enhance the Gateway’s individual character’. This work will be supported by £35 million from CLG.
There are 3 aims of the Parklands agenda. These are:
* To retain – and where necessary restore – the high quality natural environment of the Gateway’s landscapes
* To secure a high quality built environment, particularly in public spaces
* To protect, promote and celebrate the historic environment and heritage of the area
The strategic framework for delivery of the Parklands Agenda is divided into 5 Transformational Themes. The remit and requirements of each of the Transformational Themes is still being developed, but the definitions below provide an outline of the expectation of what benefits the Themes will produce. The wording is sourced from the Thames Gateway Delivery Plan.
* Thames Waterfront – A new Estuary Path will run along both banks of the river and waterfront projects in receipt of public money will have to provide free public access to the river, where it is relevant and appropriate. With partners, CLG wish to ensure that improved access is matched by an improved river environment.
* Thames Gateway World Class Heritage – Support will be provided to finance the bid to UNESCO for World Heritage Site status for Chatham Historic Dockyard and surrounding fortifications. Improvements to other heritage sites will also be supported.
* Thames Gateway Landscapes – Two landscapes of regional significance will be supported, as well as smaller, more local green spaces.
* Thames Gateway Corridors – Improvements to some strategic transport corridors, including key rail routes and A-roads will be encouraged. These will provide carbon offsetting schemes, easier travel within the Gateway and a better initial image for visitors.
* Thames Gateway Squares – Overseas experience of successful regeneration demonstrates the importance of the town square for common identity. To compliment the Mayor of London’s plan to develop 100 new London squares. To compliment this programme, CLG will work with partners to identify and start work on two or three large squares.
Sir Terry Farrell and his company will have the position of Design Champion within the Gateway. Much of this is proposed to revolve around the design of the squares. Further work by Farrells will include producing a Thames Gateway Spatial Framework. This will be a visual representation of the Gateway and demonstrate through maps how the Parklands Programme will influence the character of the Gateway.
Talks are continuing around the development of a Parklands Trust, which is to maintain and manage the delivery of the Thames Gateway Parklands Programme in the long term. There is also consideration around the creation of a Parklands Mark. This will be along a similar vein to Green and Blue Flags which currently exist and will be awarded to projects that exemplify high quality public places and green spaces