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Portfolio. Urban Design (2021)

Marleen Adiwangsa | Dhanashree Chavan | Tina Britton

Content

Part I: Urban Design Analysis 01

Introduction

Site Analysis

Urban Structure

Conclusion to Analysis

About the Site Historical Timeline Heritage Conservation

Demographic Information Microclimate Topography Stormwater Map Trees & Vegetation Accessible Open Spaces

Block Dimension Lot Analysis Building Typology Zoning Actual Use Building Heights Building Setbacks Quality of Street Frontages Street Network Footpath & Walkability

SWOT Analysis Vision Statement

Content

Part II: Urban Design Intervention 05

Intervention Site #1

Intervention Site #2

Intervention Site #3

Appendix

Site Description SWOT Analysis Precedents - Palmwoods - Laneway 53 - Living Wall Precedents & Preliminary Intervention - Laneway - Community Centre Plaza - Carpark - Corner of Phillip St. & LHD

Site Description SWOT Analysis Precedents - Cluff Vista Park - Misty Oasys Precedents & Preliminary Intervention

Site Description SWOT Analysis Precedents - Penrith High Street - Elizabeth Street Retail Precinct - People Parkers - Parklets - Miami & Naha Precedents & Preliminary Intervention

01 | Introduction

Lawrence Hargrave Drive Urban Analysis & Intervention

Thirroul

Co-contributors: Dhanashree Chavan and Tina Britton

This project aims to implement interventions onto small section of Lawrence Hargrave Drive in Thirroul, NSW. Through these interventions we hope to improve the qualities of life for Thirroul’s residents.

Northern Side Core focal point for mixed-use, retail & community services

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Background: Thirroul is a large seaside suburb in northern Wollongong located on the south coast of New South Wales, Australia. It is approximately 16 kms from Wollongong and 71 kms from Sydney. It is well-known for its natural landscape - providing the perfect summer getaways, cafes, and restaurants, with almost an ‘inner city’ ambience. The south coast railway line runs through the Thirroul town centre and divides it into two distinct centres: North and South. The first part of this project, the site study, focuses on an 800m section of Lawrence Hargrave Drive (LHD), part of the popular Grand Pacific Tourist Drive running 19.8kms from Stanwell Tops in the north to Bulli in the South.

Year: 2021

Location: Thirroul, NSW Australia

Southern Side Mixed retail and community services with a compact character & close proximity to Thirroul railway station

Introduction | 01 LHD is the main thoroughfare and plays a crucial role in connecting these two areas with a railway bridge, providing vehicular access. Along with this, a railway footbridge at the Thirroul railway station also provides pedestrian access. Lawrence Hargrave Drive is a significant coastal road and a popular tourist drive that provides a key travel route between Wollongong, its suburbs and Sydney. It ends in Thirroul and further meets Princes Highway at the Bulli pass. The existing character of the site, the Village Centre precinct, is an amalgamation of two contrasting natural scenic elements: escarpment to the west (known as Lady Fuller Park) and ocean to the east. The northern side of the study area is larger in size and is focal point for retail and community services within the suburb, whereas the southern side is comprised of mixed retail and community services with a compact character, and close proximity to the Thirroul railway station. The site is also popular for its Cabbage tree palms. Although most have been diminished due to the development, some are still found along the escarpment. With close proximity to the beach and the village centre development, the site attracts a plethora of visitors in the form of tourists and locals.

Site Photos & Impression

1. Imposing beauty of escarpment

2. Lack of linear view through entire township (surprise)

3. Disconnected township dissected by rail line and bridge

4. Commercial zone - mix of heritage and modern facades

5. Shop-top housing & commercial

6. Retail mix typical of coastal location (take-away, homewares, boutiques, surf shops)

7. Lack of shade, inconsistent street trees (west side)

8. Sense of enclosure more dominant on eastern side of street

9. Degraded public domain

01 | Introduction

Historical Timeline

EARLY 1800s 1812 First Europeans settled in Thirroul. They worked as timber cutters and shipped logs to Sydney. 1815 Charles Throsby started settlement in Thirroul by creating access through Bulli mountain. 1821 Governor of Brisbane granted 3000 acres of land where Capt. Robert marsh Westmacott started brickwork, made routes & started the first coal mine.

MID - LATE 1800s

LATE 1800s

1860s People started settling in what was then known as North Bulli.

1880 Named Robbinsville after Fredrick Robbins who owned land in the area. It became a popular beach holiday destination. Tourism was the first industry.

1870s Lowercoast road was constructed.

1888 It was the only place with hotel accommodation after the railway line opening. It got its first post office and school. Land subdivision occurred. Many people from Sydney purchased land and built holiday cottages. 1892 Renamed as THIRROUL. The railway services increased visitors.

EARLY 1900s 1914 Golf course opened. 1917 The railway depot and marshalling land opened. Railway line was duplicated which encouraged even more guesthouses. 1919 Construction of Vulcan firebrick company caused pollution. Railway deport made the resort feel of the town look degraded. Thirroul started losing its tourists.

Introduction | 01

EARLY - MID 1900s

LATE 1900s

1930 The Thirroul Township started on the west side of the railway line. The retention of the village vibe attracted tourists again.

1987 Railway line from Sydney to Thirroul was electrified. It became a major train stop on the Illawarra line. and became a popular commuter belt suburb. This led to dramatic increase in housing prices with upcoming restaurants and fancy cafes.

1947 Lower coast road renamed Lawrence Hargrave Drive after Australian Pioneer and encoraged development along its coridoor.

TODAY 2021 The LHG drive ends in Thirroul and promotes tourism on a large scale

FUTURE Proposed redevelopment of the town centre precint, including the Thirroul Plaza. Two NSW Government proposals seek to increase traffic flow/ease congestion by removing street parking. Both have been met with opposition from business community and resident groups

01 | Introduction

Existing Plaza - Site Photo

Proposed Design

Redevelopment Proposal SCALE 1:3000 Thirroul is experiencing increasing traffic congestion due to parking and intersection capacity and close proximity to the railway station. Road network improvement is required to avoid the pressure on local roads as commuters rely on Thirroul train station for fast trains to Sydney. (Transport for NSW, 2021)

REDEVELOPMENT OF THE THIRROUL PLAZA

Two proposals (see map) seek to eliminate left side street parking within the town centre, providing opportunities to improve local bike paths, foot paths, public spaces, and public transport. These proposals have met with opposition from the community due to their potential impact on local business and pedestrian safety/amenity. The proposed redevelopment of Thirroul Plaza seeks to replace a single storey retail development with a two-storey contemporary mixed-use development including retail and residential spaces, designed to increase pedestrian activity levels through active street frontages and improved connectivity.

POTENTIAL INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS TO INCREASE CAPACITY

Introduction | 01

REDMAN

KING’S THEATER (ANITA’S THEATER)

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A EH

CHURCH STREET

OLD RAILWAY BARRACKS

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W LA

RO AD STA TIO N

RAILWAY P ARADE

WOODWARD MEMORIAL PARK

PARISH OF ST. MICHAEL

McCAULEY STREET

RAYMOND ROAD

PHILLIP S TREET

FIG TREE

FEDERATION HOUSES

FORMER METHODIST CHURCH

THIRROUL RAILWAY STATION

Heritage Conservation

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Scale 1:3000

There are a number of heritage items on LHD including the King’s Theatre (1912) and a former Methodist church (1911), now used as post-office. There is a well maintained row of federation houses located in Raymond Street. A giant fig tree is also on the heritage list and dominates the streetscape next to the community centre. The retention of these heritage items and historical facades adds to the charm and appeal of Thirroul as a destination for visitors.

02 | Site Analysis

Demographics THIRROUL, NSW

DWELLING SUMMARY

HOUSEHOLD INCOME 10.2%

Summary Profile Data gathered from ABS Census (2016) Compiled & presented in Profile.ID Total Population Total Dwellings

6,084 2,447

Needs Assistance (Elderly/Disabled)

4.2%

Not Stated

73.2%

25.4%

0.6%

Separate Houses

Medium & High Density

Others*

32.8%

13.7% < $650

21.3% $650 - $1449

> $2500

SUMMARY FINDINGS Couples with children

37.7%

Couples without children

27.7%

89.9%

Occupied Private Dwellings

9.9%

Unoccupied Private Dwellings

22.0%

0.1%

$1449 - $2499

Non-Private Dwellings

HOUSING TENURE Empty nesters & retirees

largest population increase between 2011-2016

High household income

% of households earning $2500+ pw

High car dependency

% of households with 2+ cars

+202

persons

32.8%

54.6%

38.1%

OWNED

36.4%

PURCHASING

19.0%

RENTING

Based on these findings, our urban design intervention seeks to provide: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Places for play Places to connect Places for retreat/quiet places Impoved quality of public realm Activated, connected and legible streets & public spaces Opportunities to meet biophilic needs

Site Analysis | 02

Microclimate

SOLAR SHADING ON WINTER SOLSTICE

Thirroul’s summers are not too hot but very humid, with an average temperature range of 17-25°C and average RH of 69-76%. Its winters are much more comfortable, with an average temperature range of 10-17°C and average RH of 54-63% (Bureau of Meteorology, 2021). Summer conditions exceed comfort range May discourage people from walking Thirroul receives calmer winds in the morning (annual average of 17 km/h) compared to the afternoon (annual average of 23.3 km/h). Wind speed ranging from 12 - 28 km/h is still categorized as gentle breeze by the Beaufort scale, which means it will still be comfortable for people to walk outside. The wind is also more frequent from the south and south west in the morning (where Lawrence Hargrave Drive meets Phillip St. and Raymond Rd.), and from south and north east in the afternoon (all along the study area).

SOLAR SHADING ON SUMMER SOLSTICE

Key map showing wind direction and section lines:

SOLAR SHADING ON EQUINOX

SE Scale 1:10000

02 |Site Analysis

Lawrence Hargrave Drive

Lawrence Hargrave Drive sits at approximately 5 - 20m above sea level. The area closer to the escarpment (west) is higher in elevation compared to the area closer to the ocean (east). The highest point within the study area lies in the railway bridge, which is approximately 5.6m above ground.

Stormwater Points

m 45

Stormwater Pipes

m 40

Stormwater Lines35m

20 m

Stormwater Pits

~5.6m

Station St.

25 m

Topography

Station St.

15m

m 10

5 50m

There are also more drains towards the west of the study area. Since Wollongong in general is prone to flooding, the stormwater map on the left helps determine whether LHD needs any intervention in terms of stormwater management. Climate data provided by BOM shows that Thirroul receives an average annual rainfall of 1127.9mm - this is about the same amount of rain that Sydney receives annually (~1175mm). Judging from the site elevation and proximity to the ocean, most of the stormwater runoff will either get drained and discharged to the ocean through the pipes, or run through Lawrence Hargrave Drive and into the ocean. Based on the above analysis, further actions do not need to be taken, although the site can always benefit from some Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) interventions.

m 10

5m SCALE 1:3000

Site Analysis | 02

Public tree

Public green space

Private tree

Private green space

AIL WA Y

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REDMAN

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CHURCH ST

STA TIO N

RAILWAY P ARADE

PHILLIP ST

McCAULEY ST

LAW

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RAYMOND RD

E RIVE D VE A R RG A H F CE A N E R B

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Accessible open spaces & types of trees found on LHD, as assumed by authors: A: Jacaranda B: London Plane Trees C: Water gums D: Water gums E: Fig tree (heritage listed) F: War Memorial Park G: WF Jackson Park H: Unable to identify I: Cabbage tree palms Within the study area there are two main accessible green spaces at W F Jackson park & Woodward Memorial Park. The highest concentration of vegetation/street plantings and trees are found around the train station and rail line (although not all is accessible). Most trees are located in private property. There are a lack of street trees/plantings in the commercial area making it possibly due to dominance of awnings and proximity of traffic lanes.

Trees & Vegetation

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ARTHUR

SO UT HC OA ST R

SCALE 1:3000

03 | Urban Structure

Block Dimension Lawrence Hargrave drive comprises of various sizes of street blocks. The street facing blocks vary from small plots catering retail to large blocks catering primary schools, community centre and mixed commercial buildings. Since the area is the town centre, various activities shape the typology of the blocks. Overall, there is good permeability throughout the street. The arrangements enable a good balance between built and permeability such that people have the choice to move freely throughout the area. However, the eastern side of the street is dominated by two superblocks with no permeability, it leads to the obstruction of movement and thus, there are fewer pedestrian activities observed around the innermost parts of the two blocks. The northernmost part of the study area is made up of three medium sized blocks that are relatively walkable. Similar block typology is observed in open spaces that is. Triangular typology that adjoins the railway line.

BUILDING BLOCKS

Medium Block Typology

PARK PARKING

Similar Block Typology of open spaces

Smallest block on site

Superblocks with NO permeability

SCALE 1:3000

Urban Structure | 03

FINE GRAIN E

REDMAN

Lot Analysis

AVE

AIL WA YL

MEDIUM GRAIN

OA ST R

LARGE GRAIN

HC UT

ST R

CHURCH STREET

RO AD STA TIO N

Retail, Ofﬁces, Residential blocks

VE RA

IV DR

ST.

RAILWAY P ARADE

A EH

BUILDING TYPOLOGY

N RE

W LA

A Apartment building B Commercial - supermarket C Professional services D Medical practice E Shop-top residential F Separate dwelling

McCAULEY STREET

PHILLIP S TREET

RAYMOND ROAD

D ARTHUR

Majority of Community buildings

The majority of the study area is of a fine grain nature with similar sized, smaller lots that provide much visual interest, especially in the twin commercial zones where shop facades are diverse and eye-catching, making walking a feasible option. Larger lots are reserved mainly for community uses such as community centres or churches.

Majority of Residential buildings

SCALE 1:3000

The main commercial zones contain a mix of single storey and two storey shop-top housing/commercial buildings. There are a number of separate commercial buildings catering for professional services such as accountant or law offices or larger supermarket functions. Building typologies outside of commercial area are dominated by separate private dwellings and infrequent townhouse or apartment buildings.

03 | Urban Structure ACTUAL USE SCALE 1:3000 PERMISSIBLE ON LEP SCALE 1:5000

REDMAN

CHURCH STREET

DATA BREAKDOWN:

Commercial use: 60.5% Residential use: 39.5%

10%

ON THE MAP: Residential

Retail

Mixed-Use

Restaurants

Cafe

Offices

Health Care

Public Park

Parking

Vacant Plot

Primary School 11%

23%

Community Buildings

Zoning

Supermarket

Food retail

Takeaway

Banking

Personal Services

Professional Services

Service Station

C EN

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W LA

STA TIO

RAILWAY P ARADE

OA D

PHILIP S TREET

12%

IV R D

McCAULEY STREET

VE A R

RAYMOND ROAD

1% 2% 2%

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SP2

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ARTHUR

RE1 R3

AVE

Fitness

The study area offers a variety of uses. It is dominated by residential lots in close proximity to main street of LHD. Within the two commercial areas are mixed use clusters of cafes, restaurants, retail outlets, and personal services (e.g., beauticians) catering to both local and visitor needs. The actual use largely reflects the allowable zoning which predominantly caters residential and the local centre. A large block adjacent to the train station zoned medium density has yet to be realised as still dominated by single dwellings.

Urban Structure | 03 OPEN SPACES AIL WA YL IN

GROUND +1 STOREY: 6-9m

OA ST R

GROUND +2 STOREY: 9-12m

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CHURCH STREET

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13m

STA TIO

RAILWAY PA

RADE

RO AD

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ACTUAL USE SCALE 1:3000 PHILIP ST

12m

11m 1

REDMAN

ARTHUR

RAILWAY P ARADE

IV DR

A EH

RO AD

REET PHILIP ST

ST.

Building heights along the street contribute to enhancing view corridors and highlight the identity and legibility to significant heritage buildings on site. They also act as a perfect frame for picturesque views and vistas and are friendly to the human scale. There is a clear contrast between allowable heights of 11-13 metres and those observed on site. This is reflective of future planning and recognition of Thirroul as a potential future Transit Oriented Development (TOD), given its access to train services and commutable distance to Sydney CBD. The scale of the buildings adds to the street character. In the town centre, all the buildings have a definite yet uniform character in terms of height and scale that complement each other and provide a distinct character of a village to the street.

McCAULEY STREET

ST R

RAYMOND ROAD

Building Heights

AVE

ARTHUR

PROPOSED REDEVELOPMENT G+2: 12M

REDMAN

GROUND FLOOR: 3-3.5m

PERMISSIBLE ON LEP SCALE 1:5000

03 | Urban Structure

16m

3-4m 5-7m

8-9m

REDMAN

AVE

10 - 11 m KI N

ARTHUR

12+ m

CHURCH ST

VE A GR

STA TIO N

H CE N E R LAW 1

RIV D E AV GR

McCAULEY ST

W LA

IVE R D

AR H E NC

RAYMOND RD

Set-back distance within the two main commercial areas is fairly consistent at 3-4m to 5-7m. Footpaths are generous, but not sparse, and are sheltered by awnings. Footpaths are decorated with inset murals that demarcate the main ‘shopping zone’ in both of the commercial areas. There is some street furniture present such as benches and bins but a noticeable lack of street trees (perhaps due to the dominance of awnings). Deeper set-backs accommodate public gatherings (e.g. the pub outdoor dining area or the plaza outside the community centre. Some large (10-11m) setbacks are also observed in private residential lots on the edges of the study area, typical of older, standalone dwellings. Some of these have been replaced by townhouse developments taking advantage of the available land for uplift purposes.

PHILLIP ST

Building Setbacks

SCALE 1:3000

Urban Structure | 03

CAR PARK

GRADE B

GREEN SPACE

GRADE C

GRADING SCHEME NG

CHURCH ST

SO U

ARTHUR

TH CO AS TR

GRADE D

ST STA TIO N

PHILLIP ST

McCAULEY ST

RAYMOND RD

ED V RA G AR

A Excellent B Good C Fair D Bad The street frontages along LHD are accessed based on the following qualities: - range of functions - amount of blind or passive facades - depth and modelling in the building surface - quality of materials and amount of refined details

H CE N R E W LA

Quality Of Frontages

AVE REDMAN

AIL WA YL

GRADE A

IN E

SCALE 1:3000

As would be expected the highest quality of street frontage (Grade A) occurs in main commercial zones. These frontages are finished with good quality materials (some with traditional ceramic tiles) and feature large windows with attractive window dressings and goods spilling out onto the streets. This provides good visual interest and surveillance and is inviting, encouraging high foot traffic and encouraging people to spend time within these zones (evident despite Covid-19 lockdown). Areas where the quality is lower (grade C & D) tend to be vacant, poorly maintained or blank facades that fail to invite patronage and can feel abandoned and unsafe due to poor surveillance.

03 | Urban Structure 6.1% 4.8% 15.5%

CAR OWNERSHIP (AS OF 2016)

34.5%

MAIN STREET - 12M WIDE REDMAN

SECONDARY STREETS - 10-12M WIDE IN

39.1%

PED. & TRAFFIC CONFLICT ZONE

ON THE CHART:

ST R

89.2% of the population owns at least one vehicle & 64.3% of the population travels to work by car

Street Network

RO AD STA TIO N

RAILWAY P ARADE

PHILIP ST REET

THIRROUL RAILWAY STATION

VE RA

4RIV

C EN

R HA

W LA

BATH STRE

3 McCAULEY STREET

RAYMOND ROAD

RELEVANT DATA:

ST.

STREETT CHURCH CH STREE CHUR

Not stated

Dominant main street (Lawrence Hargrave Drive) is the main thoroughfare for coastal drive (Grand Pacific Drive – Sydney to Wollongong). It is narrow (mainly 2 lanes) despite its importance as key connector road. Secondary streets are generous in size but lack any real function due to lack of through connections (physical barriers of escarpment and beach). Railway line/bridge acts as physical barrier carving up the commercial area into two separate zones. There are only a few pedestrian laneways along the street. One laneway on the southern side has great potential to be transformed into a lively space that would provide an extra connection leading people to the community centre.

BUS-STOP

3 motor vehicles

OA ST R

RAILWAY STATION

1 motor vehicle

ARTHUR

2 motor vehicles

AIL WA YL

PEDESTRIAN LANES - 3M WIDE

No motor vehicle

AVE

SCALE 1:3000

Urban Structure | 03 1. Public walkway on the main street

2. Walkway around retail and plaza area

3. Walkway near residential area

4. Wide footpaths with tree canopies

3-6m WIDE FOOTPATH E AIL WA YL

1-1.2m WIDE FOOTPATH

OA ST R

PEDESTRIAN REFUGE

UT SO

VE A R

IV DR

McCAULEY STREET

R HA

RAYMOND ROAD

RO AD

Footpath & Walkability

AVE

W LA

STA TIO

ST R

ST.

CHURCH STREET

MEDIUM PED. MOVEMENT

RAILWAY P ARADE

ARTHUR

HIGH PED. MOVEMENT

PHILLIP S TREET

PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

LOW PED. MOVEMEMENT

REDMAN

2-2.5m WIDE FOOTPATH

5. Footpath on the main street with murals

BATH STRE

PEDESTRIAN AND VEHICULAR TRAFFIC INTERSECTION

SCALE 1:3000

The map narrates the connectivity of walkways throughout the site. The footpaths are observed in both main and secondary streets. The maximum pedestrian movement zones are located as expected in the main commercial zones to the north east and south west of the study area. These high-volume areas are short in length and fairly walkable, however pedestrian activity dramatically drops off as the street becomes more residential in nature. Crossing points for pedestrians are quite spread-out forcing pedestrians to cross at other more convenient places along LHD. It is observed that wider footpaths have more pedestrians while the narrower ones are empty. There is no hindrance on the footpath throughout the street. However, there are wide footpaths which are empty without pedestrians due to lack of street furniture and shading.

04 | Conclusion to Analysis

Topography and curved street act as surprising elements Variety of zones and usage increase opportunities and invite people

IN E OA ST R

H CE

D VE A R

RO AD N

RADE RAILWAY PA

RO AD N STA TIO

RADE

Green spaces on either side of the street

McCAULEY STREET

Good access to public transport like train station and bus-stops

ST R

RAYMOND ROAD

Wide footpaths

RIV

THIRROUL RAILWAY STATION

THIRROUL BEACH

Strengths Heritage frontages increase the experience

AVE

W LA PHILLIP S TREET

McCAULEY STREET

RAYMOND ROAD

RAILWAY PA

UT SO

CHURCH STREET

D VE A R

W LA PHILLIP S TREET

ST. ARTHUR

RIV

ST R

H CE

REDMAN

ST. ARTHUR

CHURCH STREET

THIRROUL RAILWAY STATION

SCALE 1:4500

STA TIO

ESCARPMENT

AVE

AIL WA YL

OA ST RA ILW AY LIN E

REDMAN

Threats Imposing nature of the Escarpment - visual treat Beach within 5 minutes of reach enlightens the area and gives a resort like feeling Mix of retail offerings Low building heights Coastal Lifestyle with a trendy atmosphere Scope for future development in terms of heights

Local opposition for the proposed redevelopment of the Thirroul plaza Local opposition for the proposal by NSW Transport to remove on-road parking Limited options ot address traffic issues

Conclusion to Analysis | 04 AVE

No permeability - superblocks No utilization of existing green spaces

OA ST R HC UT

RIV

H CE

D VE A R

RAILWAY PA

RADE

RO AD

PHILLIP S TREET

RO AD N STA TIO

RADE RAILWAY PA

Spaces occupied by on-road parking

RAYMOND ROAD

Parking dominated and no character

ST R

McCAULEY STREET

RAYMOND ROAD

Wasted parking space

THIRROUL RAILWAY STATION

Weaknesses Dead pedestrian pathway

W LA

THIRROUL RAILWAY STATION

Under-utilized public space

UT SO

CHURCH STREET

PHILLIP S TREET

ST. ARTHUR

D VE A R

W LA

CHURCH STREET

ST R

STA TIO

ST. ARTHUR

RIV

AVE

AIL WA YL

AIL WA YL OA ST R

H CE

REDMAN

IN E

REDMAN

IN E

SCALE 1:4500

Opportunities Pedestrian and vehicular conflict zone - High private car dependency - No cycling infrastructure - Lack of consistency throughout the street in terms of pedestrian crossings, frontages and walkability on the railway bridge Lack of vegetation and shading in public areas, bus stops and walkways

Improve the frontage quality and make it more inviting

Introduce safe crossing, increase footpath width

Make the pedestrian path vibrant with surface treatments (tactical urbanism) and join it to the community centre

Wide foothpaths to accomodate tree canopies and planters

Include unused and degraded parking area as a spill out pulic space for the community centre Transform the excess parking area into a public space Provide parklets Transform the un-used park as a joggers park,introduce furniture and make provision for weekend food trucks

Increase street consistency with street furnitures, street art and active frontages 12m wide street can accomodate cycling infrastructure Providing permeability will also increase land value

04 | Conclusion to Analysis

Vision For LHD: The Vibrant, Resort-like Precinct

Thirroul has the potential to grow into a vibrant resort-like precinct, catering the local community and tourists. Our vision is:

01 A CONNECTED TOWN CENTRE

02 CONVIVIAL AND EFFECTIVE PEDESTRIAN LINKS AND PUBLIC SPACES

To connect the northern and southern sides of the town centre by revitalizing the streetscape, utilizing underdeveloped spaces and creating a harmonious street culture, with green and interactive spaces.

To activate the laneways and public domain in order to establish connectedness, social interactions, promote cycling and enhance a safe pedestrian experience by using the existing assets of the site such as heritage infrastructure and green spaces to establish Thirroul as an enjoyable and memorable precinct and a tourist destination.

Conclusion to Analysis | 04

Objectives

To connect the northern and southern sides of Thirroul local centre

To uplift the unused open spaces to connect people with history of the place

To revitalize and activate the community centre plaza with vibrant public spaces

To increase permeability throughout the site and enable pedestrian friendly streets with a sense of connectedness

05 | Intervention Site #1 SCALE 1:10000

Site #1: Community Centre & Library Plaza

SITE PHOTOS:

The Thirroul Community Centre and Library Plaza are used mainly as a thoroughfare from the carpark to the library and main street. The plaza is decorated with inlay murals representing Aboriginal heritage and features some large trees and several benches. The rear carpark can be accessed from Phillip St (cars only) and via a narrow laneway from LHD and through the community centre plaza area.

RESTAURANT

CAFETERIA

RETAIL

OFFICE

NURSERY

THIRROUL COMMUNITY CENTRE AND LIBRARY

PHILLIP

STREET

3M WIDE LANEWAY

5 2

IVE

AR CE H

R LAW

RAILWAY P ARADE

DR AVE

SCALE 1:1000

Intervention Site #1 | 05 THIRROUL COMMUNITY CENTRE AND LIBRARY

SCALE 1:1500 S1 7

PHILLIP

STREET

VE D GRA

RADE

AR 3

CE H

REN LAW

RAILWAY PA

RIVE

B 3

THREATS

STRENGTHS

1. Good quality street frontages 2. Heritage style facades 3. Eclectic mix of businesses 4. Quality of community infrastructure 5. Established trees 6. Proximity to train and bus 7. Accessible site 8. Spacious plaza at the entrance with existing trees 9. Wide driveway to accomodate shading and greenery

A. Carparking sensitivity B. Current actual use of retail C. Land ownership D. Opposition to relocate the bus-stop and de-route the bus movement

THIRROUL COMMUNITY CENTRE AND LIBRARY

11 I

3 D

WEAKNESSES

IVE

E DR

E HA

ENC

R LAW

AV RGR

OPPORTUNITIES

B A 1 6

10 G

F 5

RAILWAY PA RADE

PHILLIP

STREET

1. Narrow laneway 2. Uninviting plaza 3. Lack of shade 4. Lack of direct sight lines through plaza 5. Plaza inactive after-dark 6. Lack of outdoor dining 7. Unattractive rear car-park 8. Lack of shelter/shade outdoor seating 9. Uninviting and dead entrance 10. Unsafe pedestrian plaza with unused spaces 11. Dead spaces

A. Improve laneway connection to street B. Add green wall in laneway C. Enhance low level planting in Plaza D. Re-purpose rear garden of adjacent block E. Reclaim section of carpark F. Improve social seating in Plaza G. Extend plaza to accomodate outdoor seating and enable a safe pedestrian space H. Improve the entrance quality by adding shurbs and palm trees I. Increase the usage of the carpark on weekends

05 | Intervention Site #1 PRECEDENTS 1. PALMWOODS

2. LANEWAY 53

3. LIVING WALL

Creation of new town square at Palmwoods, designed to enhance the vibrancy and identity of Palmwoods.

Upgrade of existing ped only laneway that connects Harold St car park with Burke Rd.

Creation of living wall as part of neighbourhood renewal project. The wall was installed with funding from community watershed incentives and help from community volunteers.

We liked:

1. Use of street furniture and landscaping to make the square inviting and interesting 2. Integration of natural materials to soften the concrete pathways and provide shade 3. A range of seating options that encourage conversation or people watching

1. Retention of mature trees for shade and aesthetic purposes. Species allows winter sun to penetrate. 2. Addition of consistent paving, seat wall and landscaping 3. Provision of lighting to encourage users through day and night 4. Mix of private outdoor dining and public social seating options.

1. Use of vegetation as a ‘material’ to soften the bare gable wall, providing a green and cooling environment. 2. Creating an iconic statement that marks the entry to a renewed place. 3. The use of the wall as an attractor that encourages conversation and a sense of belonging.

Picabeen Green, Sunshine Coast, QLD, Australia

Camberwell, Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Hingetown District, Ohio City, Cleveland, USA

Intervention Site #1 | 05 PRECEDENTS & PRELIMINARY INTERVENTION The intervention aims to improve the underperforming public domain around the community centre to act as an attractor for a wide range of residents and visitors, encouraging community connectedness, social interaction and sense of belonging.

Objective #3: To revitalize and activate the community centre plaza with vibrant public spaces

Public art shade structure above the plaza Weekend flea and food trucks on the parking lot

Green oasis to increase the softscape and serve as a seating and play area THIRROUL COMMUNITY CENTRE & LIBRARY

Feature tree

softscape green wall

Pop-up garden centre

RIV D E V GRA

A CE H

REN W A L

Private outdoor dining

Bus-stop with shaded seating

Surface treatment (murals) depicting the abstract fusion of “Blue and Green” theme with hanging fairy lights throughout the laneway

Repurposed plaza with outdoor seating and an increased turning radius for the diverted bus movement

Seating area under trees that act as natural canopy

Paley Park, NYC

RAILWAY P ARADE

PHILLIP ST

REET

Drop-off zone with safety barriers

SCALE 1:750 Maling Rd Laneway Canterbury, VIC, AUS

05 | Intervention Site #1 1. LANEWAY Changes to the laneway include repurposing the existing plant nursery to create a wider laneway, providing both public ‘social’ seating and private outdoor dining as an extension to the existing cafe. Other improvements include the installation of a green wall and integration of a mural (cafe wall) that features local native vegetation and helps connect users to the history of the place.

EXISTING SPACE

PROPOSED DESIGN

Intervention Site #1 | 05 EXISTING SPACE

nursery The Niche Nursery

laneway (2m) laneway (2m)

PROPOSED DESIGN

Two Mountains Merchant + outdoor dining space

outdoor space (Two Mountains Merchant) nursery

extended laneway (~15.5m)

laneway (2m)

Two Mountains Merchant

05 | Intervention Site #1 2. COMMUNITY CENTRE PLAZA After hours the plaza comes alive with outdoor dining, live music and serves as an attractor for commuters after work. One resident said that the plaza “has the potential for a real sense of place. It has got the bones of a laneway network of cafes, wine bars, art spaces and communal gatherings.“

EXISTING SPACE

PROPOSED DESIGN

Intervention Site #1 | 05

PROPOSED DESIGN

05 | Intervention Site #1 3. CARPARK Playspace using locally found elements: sand, water, wood and stone. During the day the playspace serves as a connector between the plaza public and private spaces and the laneway link. Parents and families can enjoy formal or informal dining opportunities. Those using Community centre and library can spill out into the public space after attending classes or book borrowing.

EXISTING SPACE

PROPOSED DESIGN

Intervention Site #1 | 05 4. CORNER OF PHILLIP ST. AND LHD Pedestrian movement and crossing are made easier by closing the existing bus lane and converting the area into a plaza that will also serve as an entry point to the town centre. The new space allows opportunities for al fresco dining - tables can be arranged facing the escarpment. The edge of the corner is also smoothened a little, to allow easier turns for buses.

From a “Vehicular dominated” place to a “Vibrant People’s plaza”

EXISTING SPACE

Softscape converted into hardscape for plaza restored within the community centre plaza

PROPOSED DESIGN

EXISTING SPACE

06 | Intervention Site #2 SCALE 1:10000

Site #2: W F Jackson Park

OA ST R UT

RAILWAY PARKING AREA

CHURCH STREET

AIL WA YL

SITE PHOTOS & SWOT ANALYSIS:

Located on the northern side of the Thirroul town centre, the W F Jackson park is a key location with a lot of potential to become a happening public space. Its key strength is located right adjacent to the Thirroul plaza. In the existing situation of the park, less people and activities are observed, making it a dull zone. To overcome this, the intervention proposes to uplift the park as a key location with a plethora of opportunities for the residents and tourists.

THIRROUL PLAZA

C OLD RAILWAY BARRACKS (Heritage Site)

3 A

. RD STA TIO N

A. Transform the unused park into a joggers park, introduce furniture, shading and provision for weekend activites. B. Wide footpath can accomodate tree canopies and planters C. Extension of the plaza redevelopment

RAYMOND ROAD

1. Lack of trees in public areas as most of them cluttered in corners 2. Few seating areas, some without shade 3. Centre of the park looks empty, unattractive and uninviting 4. Adjacent railway line can be noisy at times

OPPORTUNITIES

A EH

W LA

E AV R G

WEAKNESSES

IV DR

W F JACKSON PARK

AREA: 4,224 M

SCALE 1:1750

Intervention Site #2 | 06

PRECEDENTS 1. CLUFF VISTA PARK Ojai, California, USA

2. MISTY OASYS (Mask Architects) Abu Dhabi, UAE

Creation of a triangular shaped pocket park on a former abandoned petrol station site. The land was donated by the Cluff Family and landscaping funded by the Ojai Land Conservancy. The park has won several design awards.

Winner of Cool Abu Dhabi design competition. Creates urban oasis to provide refuge from the heat of the desert. Consists of palm-like futuristic structures sprouting from the ground that mimic the shape of a mushroom. The structures spray cooling mist create a rainforest atmosphere and encourage growth of greenscaping.

We liked: 1. Use of sculpture/art installations to create interest and attract visitors 2. Creation of a series of interlinked spaces each with its own theme/plantings 3. Central zone/ acts as a meeting place with paths radiating outwards

4. Amphitheatre seating encourages social interaction 5. Integration of water elements, native plants and interpretive signage 6. Integration of large feature tree as focal point

We liked: 1. Fusion of nature and architecture to create interest and attract visitors 2. Dual purpose shade structure and lighting after-dark

06 | Intervention Site #2 Objective #2: To uplift the unused open spaces to connect people with history of the place

PRELIMINARY INTERVENTION This intervention proposes to introduce tactical urbanism into the space and turn the park into a more interactive green space. The idea revolves around designing the park in conjunction to the redevelopment of the Thirroul plaza while at the same time transforming it into a vibrant space.

EXISTING SPACE

TINY FLOWER GARDEN

PROPOSED PLAZA

MINI AMPHITHEATER (+0.9M)

HISTORICAL TIMELINE OF THIRROUL WITH “FUN FACTS” DISPLAYS THROUGHOUT THE PARK TRAIL

TREES WITH CIRCULAR SEATING

SCALE 1:500

Intervention Site #2 | 06

SECTION THROUGH THE PARK

Mini Amphitheater

Children’s play area

Open air event area

SECTION THROUGH THE PARK

Thirroul Plaza

06 | Intervention Site #2

Intervention Site #2 | 06 Rough sketch of the historical trail

07 | Intervention Site #3 SCALE 1:10000

Site #3: Green Spine on Lawrence Hargrave Drive

REDMAN

AVE

OA ST R

AIL WA YL

SITE PHOTOS:

Lawrence Hargrave Drive is relatively narrow (12-15m wide) given its importance as the key thoroughfare for the northern suburbs of Wollongong. It mainly consists of two way traffic with parallel parking on both sides of the street. Street frontages are generally good quality and some have attractive heritage facades. The street has relatively wide (3-5m), but under-performing footpaths and the area lacks outdoor dining options. There is a lack of street planting and/or street trees throughout the intervention area.

ST R

ARTHUR

CHURCH STREET

2 AV

R RG

E NC

IVE

R ED

RO AD N STA TIO

RADE RAILWAY PA

THIRROUL RAILWAY STATION

McCAULEY STREET

RAYMOND ROAD

PHILLIP ST

REET

W LA

SCALE 1:4000

Intervention Site #3 | 07 SCALE 1:6000

OA ST RA ILW AY L

IN E

REDMAN

ST R

ARTHUR

SO UT HC

AVE

CHURCH STREET

VE RA

IVE

N RE

N STA TIO

PARADE

RO AD

REET

T THIRROUL RAILWAY STATION

REDMAN

OA ST R

AIL WA YL IN

RAILWAY

McCAULEY STREET

UT SO

CHURCH STREET

RAILWAY

STA TIO

PARADE

RO AD

REET

T THIRROUL RAILWAY STATION

E NC

RIV

RG HA2

WEAKNESSES

OPPORTUNITIES

W LA

McCAULEY STREET

T B

D VE RA

RAYMOND ROAD

PHILLIP ST

ST R

A. Car dependency - retrofitting behaviour B. Opposition to development/change C. Narrow site/limited options to address traffic issues D. Post COVID retailers likely to be cautious of change

AVE

ST ARTHUR

1. Under-utilized wide footpaths 2. Heritage frontage 3. Green space either side of street 4. Meandering nature of street (creates interest and surprise) 5. Variety of zones/usage (attractor) 6. Mix of retail options

THREATS

STRENGTHS

W LA

RAYMOND ROAD

PHILLIP ST

1. Inconsistent footpath width 2. Unappealing footpaths 3. Lack of vegetation & shade in sections of street/bus stops 4. Pedestrian/Vehicle conflict zone 5. Spaces occupied by parking 6. Lack of cycling infrastructure 7. Pedestrian crossings spread out

A. Use of parklets to bring vitality to streetscape B. Existing wide footpaths C. Improve street frontages (e.g. Phillip St & LHD) D. Create safe crossing points/widen narrow footpaths

07 | Intervention Site #3

PRECEDENTS 1. PENRITH HIGH STREET Penrith, NSW, Australia

2. ELIZABETH STREET RETAIL PRECINCT Midtown Streetscape Upgrade Project, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia

Street Upgrade designed to improve the amenity and attractiveness of the Penrith City Centre through improvements to High Street, traditional strip shopping precinct. Intervention included greening of street, adding street furniture, at grade crossings, improved lighting, footpath extensions to allow outdoor dining, consistent paving and provision of street trees to reduce heat and encourage walking and improve the experience of the street.

A draft streetscape concept master plan has been developed to re-design the street as a more welcoming, accessible and people-focused main street. It presents better conditions for walking and cycling, spaces to sit and rest, greenery, street furniture and public art. These changes are designed to support the vibrant local businesses, and build on Midtown’s natural strengths.

We liked: 1. Use of vegetation and street trees to green the street and reduce urban heat 2. Street plantings used to frame the street and guide pedestrian to crossing points 3. Integration of outdoor dining and street furniture to encourage vibrant streetscape day & night

We liked: 1. Use of vegetation and street trees to green the street and reduce urban heat 2. Integration of bike lane 3. Integration of outdoor dining and street furniture to encourage vibrant streetscape day&night

PRE INTERVENTION

3 1 POST INTERVENTION

Intervention Site #3 | 07

PRECEDENTS 3. PEOPLE PARKERS - PARKLETS Inner West Area, Sydney, NSW, Australia

4. STREETSCAPES OF SEASIDE CITIES Naha, Okinawa Perfecture, Japan and Miami, Florida, US

People Parkers are a collective of Sydney-based architects and entrepreneurs who create products designed to “park people in public spaces”. The collective was formed in 2016 during the evaluation process of Sydney’s first mobile parklet project. This was a community led initiative whereby a series of carparks along a historical high street in Sydney’s Inner West were converted into parklets. The parklets aim to keep people local by activating and supporting local high streets, which are struggling across the city due to large, generic shopping centres.

We looked to other seaside cities such as Naha and Miami to see what gives them their resort aesthetic. We liked: 1. Coastal color palette of whites, blues, and greens 2. Pastels for its secondary color palette (for building facades or footpaths), and red for accent color 3. Palm trees & white streetlights

We liked: 1. Use of vegetation and natural materials to soften hard surfaces and reduce urban heat 2. Expansion of outdoor dining/meeting place to encourage social interaction and create vibrant streetscape 3. Creation of point of interest/focal point

2 3

07 | Intervention Site #3 Objective #4: To increase permeability throughout the site and enable pedestrian friendly streets with a sense of connectedness.

PRELIMINARY INTERVENTION

Objective #1: To connect the northern and southern sides of Thirroul local centre.

PHILLIP

STREET

Shared bus & bike lane

EXISTING SPACE

VE D A R G

A CE H

Parklets

EXISTING SPACE

Palm trees to give LHD a more coastal feel

RAILWAY P ARADE

R LAW

SCALE 1:750

Intervention Site #3 | 07

PROPOSED DESIGN

07 | Intervention Site #3

EXISTING SPACE

SCALE 1:1000

Intervention Site #3 | 07 PRE INTERVENTION

Footpath

LHG Drive

Footpath

POST INTERVENTION

Footpath with trees and seating

Buffer Cycling Lane

Buffer LHG Drive

LHG Drive

Parklets with cafe seating

Footpath with trees and seating

08 | Appendix

Climate Data for Thirroul N

-15° °

-30 -4 5°

1230°

40°

144.8 126

50° 12

60°

70°

80°

79.1

75.1

74.6

54.8

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun 105°

92.1

17 °

93.8

-105

89.4

75°

Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

12 0°

0° -12

Jul

MEAN MONTHLY TEMPERATURE RANGE (°C)

30 -

5°

5 13

0°

165°

-165

-15

SUMMER SOLSTICE

121.2

-60

-75°

10° 20°

EQUINOX

° 45

WINTER SOLSTICE

MEAN MONTHLY RAINFALL (mm)

15°

SUN PATH DIAGRAM MAP SCALE 1:10000

25 20 15 10 5 0 Jan

Feb Mar Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Appendix | 08

WIND ROSES SHOWING WIND DIRECTION & SPEED (km/h) DATA COLLECTED FROM 29/04/97 - 10/08/21 AND SUMMARIZED BELOW

MEAN 9AM WIND SPEED (km/h) Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec Annual

17.0 15.9 15.0 16.1 15.8 17.0 16.7 17.7 18.1 18.2 18.7 17.5

17.0

MEAN 3PM WIND SPEED (km/h) Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct Nov Dec Annual

24.5 23.9 23.7 22.0 20.9 21.0 20.7 23.6 24.8 24.7 24.6 25.4

MEAN ANNUAL AT 9 AM

MEAN ANNUAL AT 3 PM

23.3

08 | Appendix

LHD (Study Area) Zone Breakdown CATEGORY

1% 2% 2% 5%

7% 9%

12% 3%

DATA BREAKDOWN:

Commercial use: 60.5% Residential use: 39.5%

4% 11%

10% 3%

Supermarket Food retail Restaurants Café Takeaway Retail Professional services Community Medical Banking Personal services Vacant Fitness Service Station Residential - single dwelling Residential - multiple dwelling

TOTAL

NORTH ZONE

SOUTH ZONE

2 8 11 12 4 28 13 5 10 4 15 6 2 1 67 12

2 6 8 6 3 20 8 3 8 4 13 2 2 1 46 10

0 2 3 6 1 8 5 2 2 0 2 4 0 0 21 2

DESCRIPTION

Bakery, butcher, bottle shop

Boutiques,surf shop, charity, homewares Accountant, real estate, lawyer Church, school, theatre Dentist, pathology, Dr, optomitrist, osteopath Hair, nails, barber, massage, tattoo, beauty Gym, dance, yoga

23%

Supermarket

Food retail

Restaurants

Cafe

Takeaway

Retail

Professional Services

Health Care

Banking

Personal Services

Vacant Plot

Fitness

Service Station

Primary School

Community Buildings

Residential

Offices

Mixed-Use

Public Park

Parking

Infrastructure

Thank You.