Architecture + Design Scotland

Craigie Estate Campus Masterplan, University of Paisley

04 October 2007

INTRODUCTION

This report relates to an outline planning application for a new university campus building and residential development with associated masterplan. The design was presented to an A+DS Design Review panel on 11 September 2007.

The project was presented by representatives of RMJM, Gardiner & Theobald, Paisley University, and the Scottish Agricultural College.

The meeting was also attended by representatives of South Ayrshire Council planning authority.

No A+DS Advisory Board Members other than those who sat on the Panel have taken any part in formulating A+DS's views.

A+DS VIEWS

1.         General comments

1.1       We support the aspiration to create a high quality campus environment in a mature landscape setting, and commend aspects of the design, such as the improved pedestrian and public transport links, and the strategy to engage the local community.

1.2       The design for the campus building appears to be well advanced; however, the masterplan is not as well developed, and we are unable to endorse it at this stage. It would appear that the building is leading the development of the masterplan, rather than the other way around.

2.         Masterplan

2.1       We are concerned that there is a lack of analysis and depth to the masterplanning proposals. It is unclear, for example, how linkages and connections are made between elements, both within and beyond the masterplan area; and we are unable to express a view on the location, design or integration of either the residential development or the student accommodation, which are presently shown in basic zonal outline.

2.2       We welcome greater involvement of a landscape architect but are disappointed that this is happening at such an advanced stage in the design process as, in such an environment, the landscape should be a driver for the proposals.

2.3       We believe that a better understanding of the historic designed landscape should underpin the development of the masterplan, and that the integration of the Scottish Agriculture College into the unified campus offers opportunities to engage in a proactive manner with the landscape.

2.4       The relationship between the built form and the immediate environment is demonstrated for the south side, and should also be shown on the other three sides.

3.         Pedestrian movement

3.1       We welcome the creation of routes to permit access to community facilities, both to and from the campus. Public access to and within the campus will require to be managed, and we suggest that site security could be assisted through the placement of residential accommodation to overlook and provide passive supervision of movement.

3.2       We welcome the improved pedestrian connectivity to the town centre and rail station, and along the river. We question how links are made with the opposite bank of the river, and whether an additional bridge could be provided to enable a circular walk to be enjoyed along the river bank.

3.3       There appears to be a considerable distance between public transport stops and the proposed student accommodation.

CONCLUSION

We thank the project team for their presentation. We suggest that further work is required to develop the masterplan and the residential proposals. We trust that our comments can be accommodated, and would like to see the design once it has been further developed.

Report issued: 4 October 2007

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