Smithfield Riverside
Client |
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Shropshire Council |
Architects |
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Faulkner Browns Architects |
Engineers |
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Arup |
Scale |
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1.40ha |
Design stage |
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Planning |
Status |
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First phase planning approved 2024 |
Nestled north of Shrewsbury’s bustling town centre, Smithfield Riverside emerges as a visionary regeneration endeavour, masterplanned by FaulknerBrown Architects, Spacehub and Arup. This transformative project, funded by the Levelling Up Fund, unfolds in meticulously planned phases, commencing with essential demolition and the construction of a new park.
At the heart of this transformation lies Roushill Park, an inviting oasis reconnecting Shrewsbury’s historic town centre with the River Seven. As the first phase of the masterplan, it breathes vitality into the area, offering verdant spaces, majestic trees, and versatile event areas. Paying homage to Charles Darwin’s legacy, the park intertwines his passions for geology and horticulture, enriching the community’s cultural tapestry. Located within the flood zone of the River Severn the park is designed to withstand a 1 in 100 year flood and the subsequent cleansing require in the aftermath.
Eschewing conventional playground norms, the park pioneers a dynamic, sculptural play area for all ages. Here, rugged quarry slabs and stepping-stones converge to form a terrain ripe for exploration, fostering endless opportunities for adventure and physical activity. A towering climbing rock stands as a testament to human endeavour, beckoning older children and adults to conquer its heights.
The Garden, a sanctuary teeming with biodiversity, unfolds beneath a canopy of lush foliage. Delving off the beaten path, secluded seating nooks offer tranquil respite amidst rain garden flora and riparian trees. Habitat towers dot the landscape, inviting curious minds to uncover a plethora of invertebrates.
Overlooking the Events Lawn, the seating terrace serves as a focal point for communal get-togethers and cultural festivities. By day, the lawn invites leisurely pursuits, while by night; it transforms into a vibrant stage for theatrical performances, cinema screenings, and community gatherings.
The Wet Woodland serves as a sizable rain garden within a woodland character setting. Trees screen Smithfield road whilst framing views of the Welsh Bridge. A gateway wall marks the transition between Smithfield Road and the park, evoking an interpretation of the medieval town wall that surrounded Shrewsbury hundreds of years ago.
The Park offers an accessible route to Frankwell Footbridge for the first time, via a new stair, accessible path and lift. A new podium level can also be reached – an elevated public realm with opportunities for vibrant temporary commercial units and community engagement during this phase of the development. This podium level forms the connecting infrastructure to future phases of the masterplan.
We greatly look forward to working with Shropshire Council and our teammates on the realisation of Roushill Park and the remaining masterplan phases.
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