Supporting Statement
The key concept of the project was to create a civic space...
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The key concept of the project was to create a civic space that all members of the community would enjoy using. It has been designed using high quality materials to ensure its longevity at the heart of the community. Taking inspiration from local materials and the areas geological history the square now provided a unique contemporary public space which is sympathetic to the local historic built environment. The square steps down from the castle in a series of grassed terraces to the road, terminating in a large public space that is used throughout the year for a variety of performances and public events. The seating to this area, and that along the terraces, gives several options for places to sit and relax, and all areas of the square are now fully wheelchair accessible. The creative use of
lighting also ensures that the space can be used 24 hours a day, giving it a vibrancy at night that was lacking before. Local artists worked with the architects to produce a series of site specific features including a cairn and a collection vessel for local charities fashioned from a large boulder. This work was recently recognised by being awarded the Saltire Society Arts and Crafts in Architecture Award.
The new street design has low kerbs, narrower roadways and no street markings or defined crossing points. This has reduced traffic speed and made movement across the site easier for all pedestrians, especially those with reduced mobility. This creative and original design is now being looked at by the council to be replicated further in Stranraer and beyond.
This multi functional space has been extremely well received by locals and visitors alike. Its impact is apparent not just on the immediate area but has had a clear positive impact on surrounding businesses.