The opportunity

The Woolwich area of south-east London is experiencing unprecedented levels of regeneration, which have a major impact on the Town Centre. The arrival of a new Docklands Light Railway (DLR) station, together with the construction of new buildings will have a major impact on pedestrian movement patterns in the town centre. This creates the opportunity for improvements in the public realm.

Space Syntax formed part of the competition winning team, led by Gustafson Porter Landscape architects to redesign General Gordon and Beresford Squares, which are central spaces in the public realm of Woolwich.

Our contribution

Space Syntax undertook an in-depth urban baseline study covering the whole town centre, including both pedestrian movement surveys and spatial analysis. This study was designed to provide public realm design advice to the wider team as well as to support the planning process, including consultation with local stakeholders.

The outcome

Our work identified the hierarchy of space use in the town centre and revealed the existing spatial structure of the two squares. This information informed the development of the landscape design proposals.

The design strategies were tested and optimised using Spatial Accessibility Models. Our evidence-based evaluation of the final design was used to communicate the project to a wide range of stakeholders and helped to secure planning permission.

The project was completed in October 2011. It provides Woolwich with a public realm framework, which responds to its specific spatial conditions, ensuring that the new public spaces are well used, safe and pleasant to be in.