Major gateway needs to sparkle
DEAR Editor, I read with interest the article on the ‘garden vision’ plans for the jewellery Quarter by the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust.
In my time, 15 years ago as Regeneration Director for the area, I remember the battle that we had with Conservation to get some trees planted in Newhall Street so it’s good to hear of the greening proposals.
As part of those plans, I do hope they improve Great Hampton Street by building on the momentum of excellent recent schemes in that street by the JQ based Cordia Black Swan.
However, they will need to have council planners on side to enforce a proper design code as much of the street remains shabby and does the Quarter no favours as its gateway.
They also need to ensure that the ‘barn like’ ground floor units in the old Lucas building are actually put to use to enliven the street scene when those units have been depressingly empty for almost 20 years.
Andy Munro, Hollywood, Worcestershire