- Architecture
- Masterplanning
- Urban Design
- Landscape Architecture
- Interior Design
- Town Planning
- Project Management
- Environmental Services
Ashford Railway Works
Date: 2005
New mixed use quarter
Client: Kier Property Developments Ltd
Ashford Railway Works is an historic, but derelict, 10 hectare site set on the edge of Ashford town centre. Our proposal seeks to regenerate the site and its Grade II listed buildings to create a new, distinct and exciting mixed use quarter for Ashford. The scheme includes 690 new build apartments as well as retail and commercial outlets, a doctor’s surgery, leisure/fitness centre, crèche, mini supermarket, coffee and wine bars to create a lively and sustainable new community.
Respecting the old building lines and the historic significance of the site is integral to our design. Simultaneously, our design seeks to integrate and provide greater permeability between buildings, residential, leisure and commercial services to help the area become a more vibrant and active place for residents and visitors alike.
The most significant of the five listed buildings is the former locomotive sheds, which will house the majority of new commercial and retail services. This is the key feature for the site and forms a central part of the new development. The overall site lay-out ensures that key views of this historic building are visible from all around. Special plans are being submitted to remove the roof of the central shed, thus opening the central aisle up to form an internal ‘mews’ type street, with a portion glazed to form a winter garden.
Special consideration has also been placed on landscaping and car parking. Carefully considered planting helps to create shaded green spaces and a mix of courtyard, off-street and on-street parking, with a concealed car park, helps to ensure accessibility without dominating the streetscape or inconveniencing pedestrians or cyclists.