Architecture + Design Scotland

St James Works Mixed Use Development, Forfar

08 August 2007

Extract from letter to Angus Council, Infrastructure Services

I refer to Angus Council's letter dated 26 June 2007 seeking A+DS's observations on the formal planning application. The current designs have been discussed at an internal design review session.

We consider that the designs are a considerable improvement on those reviewed in November 2006, application reference: 06/01096/FUL. The site planning and organisation is clearer, and has overcome previous ambiguities and conflicts. The introduction of the saw-toothed roof overcomes the problem of a long unbroken skyline, and helps to reduce the mass of the retail element.

We suggest that further design development may be achievable, and offer the following comments.

Wherever possible the development should contribute to the streetscape. The housing at the north-west corner could further address and define the street.

The landscaped triangular area at the north of the service yard seems isolated from the adjacent landscaped garden / pedestrian route to the west. These separated areas might be better integrated. There may also be scope to introduce a public footpath along the south of the swimming baths through the triangular landscaped area to provide a pedestrian connection to the east.

Consideration should be given to a bolder landscape treatment of the retail car park. An option might be to create a ‘green room' with a densely planted edge. Seen from outwith the development, tree canopies along the boundary walls would provide a strong identity and sense of place, and contribute to the street scene.

We would be grateful if you would keep us informed of the progress of this application.

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