Following a presentation of the plans to the SWDRP last month by Gloucestershire County Council, English Heritage, architects Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios and Gloucester Heritage Urban Regeneration Company (GHURC), the Panel said it found the proposed scheme to be a good example of how contemporary architecture can, when handled with sensitivity and flair, work well in the centre of a historic city.
“This scheme is of a quality that will enhance Blackfriars and add another and worthy layer to its long evolution,” said Timothy Cantell of the South West Design Review Panel.
Timothy went on to add: “We commend both GHURC and EH for the positive stance they are taking on Blackfriars as a whole. The masterplan and feasibility study give a higher level of confidence that this scheme is beneficial, and not harmful, to the conservation, use and enjoyment of Blackfriars.”
Chris Oldershaw, Chief Executive at the GHURC, said: “This is a ringing endorsement of the plans drawn up by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios for Gloucestershire County Council, which is project-managing the scheme. As one of our ‘Magnificent Seven’ sites leading the City’s regeneration – and perhaps the most historic, we have consulted widely on this site.”
SWDRP’s response mirrors those of the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) which, when reviewing the Greater Blackfriars Masterplan in October 2009, found its ambitions to be ‘admirable’.
Timothy Cantell added: “It is good that this scheme now brings a major part of that ambition into reality and boosts the regeneration of this under-appreciated historic quarter of Gloucester.”
Cllr Chas Fellows, Cabinet member for economy and environment, said: "The County Council's proposals for an innovative Language Immersion Centre have taken a really positive step forward following the backing of the South West Design Review Panel. This scheme is designed to enhance the revitalisation of the Blackfriars Quarter and will integrate with the Linkages programme to improve pedestrian access to attractions across the city centre."
Chris Foley, Head of Regeneration at the South West RDA said: “These exciting designs show how the ancient and modern can really complement each other. Our investments in the Language Immersion Centre, the linkages public realm works on Kimbrose Triangle and in the Priory are all helping to support the economic regeneration of this area of Gloucester.”