FPCR provided a detailed urban design package for the regeneration of Market Street and Hotel Street within the heart of Leicester city centre. These public realm proposals formed part of the wider revitalisation of the city.
Both Market Street and Hotel Street suffered from deteriorating concrete paving and street furniture with visual clutter and a lack of legibility and accessibility. Despite being a pedestrianised area, Market Street was heavily affected by service and trade vehicles. The objective was to create a high quality pedestrian friendly environment and in turn regenerate the area for shopping, restaurants and a night time culture.
In Hotel Street the design approach maintained the through flow of pedestrian movement and enhanced the space near the prominent City Rooms building. The works included the removal of an existing London Plane tree to provide more light and space. The proposals utilised natural stone pink and red granite setts and bespoke lighting and furniture, centred around two mature London Plane trees.
FPCR prepared the design proposals, from initial concept design and public consultation to a fully detailed package of implementable proposals..
The scheme was very well received both by the public and the City Council and has supported the enhancement of the city centre. The design demonstrates how a simple approach and use of quality durable materials can be effective in enhancing street character.
