February 2023
Ryde Esplanade
Strategic Opportunities 
Development Framework
Leisure Area 3
Ryde Marina
Leisure Area 2
Leisure Area 1
Transport Hub
Western Gardens
Figure 0.1 Elevated view of Ryde Esplanade
Future Ready
Policy, Guidance and Strategies
12 Western Gardens
16 Transport Hub
21 Leisure Area 1
26 Leisure Area 2
28 Ryde Marina
30 Leisure Area 3
34 Transition Spaces
N Date
Figure 1.1 Site Location
Revision Prepared Checked Approved
Feb 23 P01 GG JOD MH
RYDE ESPLANADE
RYDE
APPLEY PUCKPOOL
E - 4
02
WSP has been asked by the Isle of Wight Council (IWC) Regeneration Team to undertake a review of the current arrangements at Ryde Esplanade, including public realm, movement, Blue Green Infrastructure (BGI) and built form, and to speak with local stakeholder groups to discuss these Esplanade elements. In doing so, further strategic opportunities will be considered, which can enhance the Esplanade environment for the benefit of the local community and visitors, and to stimulate wider economic improvement across Ryde and the Isle of Wight of a whole.
The study includes a review of historic consultation undertaken for the Ryde Interchange scheme, but also focussed on further current conversation with stakeholder groups and individuals who are invested in Ryde. The consulted parties and the IWC wish to see Ryde’s status as the ‘Gateway to the Island’ recognised with a high quality, fully integrated and thriving Esplanade, to not only create a better living and working environment for the local community, but to also provide an improved welcome for the many thousands of tourists that visit the Isle of Wight.
A Place Plan for Ryde (ARC Consulting, 2020) recognised that the Esplanade is considered Ryde’s most valuable public open space, but a lack of investment and planning in recent decades has resulted in many illegible and disconnected spaces being created, with minimal cohesion and quality, which has contributed little to promote the valuable assets within the unique waterfront environment.
The objective of the study is not to redesign the Esplanade, rather it aims to provide a high level vision for future development, and trigger further conversation on measures that may halt clearly evident economic decline. It is hoped, and considered, that combined with the Transforming Cities Fund (TCF) grant investment in the Ryde Interchange scheme, this study will act as a catalyst for change, promoting further investment and regeneration along Ryde Esplanade.
Figure 1.2 Historic image of Ryde Esplanade, highlighting the vast changes since c.1875
E - 5
Figure 2.1 Ryde Pavilion, built in 1927, is an interesting rare example of surviving cast iron seaside architecture and is a valuable Esplanade asset.
E - 6
04
Ryde benefits from a large, active and passionate pool of stakeholders who expressed a desire to engage with WSP during preparation of this study. Due to this consideration, and the evolving nature of WSP’s role, the scope of the study has continually developed to meet the requirements of the IWC Regeneration Team and ensure a wide range of views have been considered.
Regular meetings with the IWC Regeneration Team has ensured continuity in the process and allowed WSP to adapt its approach where necessary, ensuring a comprehensive engagement process has been undertaken, with a broad demographic of stakeholders.
In preparing this document, engagement has been undertaken with the following parties:
Isle of Wight Council Regeneration Team;
Ryde Town Council (RTC) councillors;
Ryde Business Association members;
Ryde Regeneration Working Group (RRWG);
The Ryde Society (TRS) members;
Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Ryde;
Hovertravel Managing Director;
The Trustees of Waterside Pool; and
Arc Consulting - Author of A Place Plan for Ryde.
A small number of select individuals have also been in attendance during selected engagement events as guests of the stakeholder groups. The views of these individuals are incorporated into the study and it’s recommendations.
To inform the study, an Opportunities and Constraints (O&C) review was undertaken to consider reoccurring themes and concerns within these stakeholder discussions. The O&C study allowed the WSP team to refine the list of potential objectives that were to be considered and breakdown the elements which collectively make up Ryde Esplanade.
The O&C process identified key several asset group, based on location, scale and general perception (by stakeholders), of how the various Esplanade elements function.
The asset groups provide a framework for how future regeneration could be grouped so that individual assets can work collectively in delivering integrated, high quality development.
The asset areas considered within this study are:
Western Gardens – The asset group includes the Western Gardens area from St. Thomas Street Car Park to the western edge of the new Interchange development. The asset group is seen by most as a single open space, segregated from adjacent areas by public roads and footways.
Transport Hub – The asset group couples the new Ryde Interchange development with the Hover Terminal and its associated infrastructure. This area is seen as the key gateway to Ryde and the Isle of Wight, via publicly accessible transport services that include train, bus, fast-cat ferry and hovercraft. Assets beyond the railway station (i.e. pier, pierhead and fast-cat terminal) are not considered as part of this study.
Leisure Area 1 – The asset group encapsulates several private and council owned assets, including Ryde Ice Rink/Arena, Quay Road Car Park, Ryde Skatepark, Esplanade Pavilion (incl. Pavilion Bar, Superbowl and redundant Balcony Bar) and associated public realm areas. The asset area is dominated by Quay Road car park, and the remaining assets are largely in a poor state of repair or neglect.
Leisure Area 2 – The asset group covers the established assets from Eastern Gardens to Eastern Esplanade Public Toilets, including the formal gardens, lawns, food/beverage outlets (incl. Harbour House Bar), Ryde Marina Bowls Club and Peter Pans Funfair/Amusements. The asset area provides amenity/leisure resources to
both tourists and the local community.
Ryde Marina – The asset group covers the working Marina from the eastern periphery of Quay Road Car Park through to Harbour Beach. RTC currently operate the Marina and have implemented a number of improvement schemes in recent months.
Leisure Area 3 – The asset group runs parallel to the waterfront from Ryde Beach Sand Playground through to the southern end of North Walk. It captures several assets, including The Captains Table café, Waterside Pool, Canoe Lake, Ryde Splash Park, Ryde Beach and parking, and the pedestrian area that runs parallel to the seafront.
Transition Spaces – The asset group covers the key routes that pass through/between the other listed asset groups being considered. Although each of the routes have their own distinct character, constraints, and opportunities (discussed more specifically as part of the above asset groups), the ‘transition spaces’ asset looks more holistically at common themes and interventions that could be implemented across the Esplanade to provide cohesion in design style, and establish future placemaking principles.
The asset group structure has been incorporated into the engagement events and forms the framework for the strategic study that follows. Although there are additional assets present within the groups listed, some were not considered due to their lack of capacity to accommodate change or inability to contribute more widely to the strategic goals (i.e. an asset or feature that has a defined role within the Esplanade and warrants retention, or is already subject to intervention/improvement works under a separate initiative). The objectives being proposed will still look to enhance the setting of such features, however, and be of benefit for the facilities that they provide.
The study concludes with an overview of the key objectives that future Esplanade regeneration proposals could look to achieve, and the next steps required to progress towards these goals.
E - 7
WESTERN GARDENS
05
Container Coffee Mobile vendors, such as this example containerised coffee shop, create a destination for amenity use and socialising
located within Western Gardens (WG)
Marina
Alternate Uses Space for pop up features or food/beverage traders in places along the harbour.
KEY
Western Gardens Area
Transport Hub Area(Bus/Train/ Ferry/Hovercraft)
Marina Leisure Area 1
Leisure Area 2
Leisure Area 3
N
Grass Sound Berm Providing increased topographical interest and noise deflection from adjacent roads.
Assets
Service Access
Revise services access. Promote involvement of local artists for specific public realm related design tasks (decorating bollards).
Improve legibility, street furniture, hardscape materials and strengthen GI links across the wider Esplanade.
Enhanced Lawns
An opportunity to introduce native coastal planting mimicking sand dune and soft cliff communities
Ecology Opportunities to use the built surfaces surroundin
g
the harbour to extend existing colonisation by saltmarsh plant species
Leisure Area 3
Embrace the Birds A wide variety of wild birds have colonised the canoe
lake. This could be embraced by setting up a bird watching hide.
BUS INTERCHANGE
HOVER TERMINAL
ICE RINK
SKATE PARK
HARBOUR
Dunes Opportunity to initiate dune building across the gap to add interest to the beach experience, boost ecological value
and reduce costs
of road sweeping.
Splash to Wetland The splash pool area could be converted into a
wetland integrating a defined walkway, removing the current conflict between birds & people.
PAVILION
BOWLING GREENS
RYDE BEECH
Improved Wayfinding Creating clear wayfinding to direct visitors to key destinations. A concurrent style can be chosen for the Esplande.
Skatepark & Beyond The skatepark can spill out along the Esplanade. In places it can be incorporated into furniture, such as the example image.
Improved Street Furniture
Furniture such as seating can be multifunctional, for seating, play, part of planters etc.
BOATING LAKE
Dunes
Continue the dune habitats theme by better managing the relict dunes between the lake and the Esplanade.
Bridge Elevator Access for all users crossing the bridge over the railway
could be achieved with an outdoor elevator.
Enhanced Lawn Areas Incorporate the coastal plant community theme.
Rationalised Parking Hover Terminal parking may have scope to change its function.
Commercial Units Opportunity to introduce further commercial units adjacent to the Marina.
Improved Legibility Cars dominate the space, pedestrians should own the space. Create more legible paths, continuous footways, and clear sight lines.
INTERCHANGE
Regenerate Public Realm
Figure 3.1 Public Consultation graphic highlighting Asset Groups of the development
Encourage a ‘benign coastal flora’ that can spread naturally into cracks and edges.
Improved Legibility Through rationalised access for vehicles, improved hard surfaces, furniture, wayfinding and green infrastructure.
LEISURE AREA 1
LEISURE AREA 2
Job no. 70088118, Drawing no. LA-002, Not to scale, May 2022
E - 8
06
The engagement approach has evolved as WSP’s understanding of the many Esplanade constraints and opportunities has grown. Initial meetings and conversations were based on listening to the concerns, wants and needs of key stakeholder groups, which afforded WSP an opportunity to market-test some initial ideas. This forum supported open conversation on the key asset groups with the parties that would ultimately be implementing and managing Esplanade initiatives to support the future growth and success of Ryde.
The engagement process intentionally avoided qualitative and quantitative assessment through blanket surveys, but instead facilitated group discussions on the Esplanade features to establish what is successful and elements that would benefit from improvement or removal. Although the study gave consideration to key constraints such as ownership, tenancy agreements, commercial factors and funding, these were not treated as blockers to future interventions or development. The Feasibility Study and conceptual proposals took note of these factors, which were subject to in-depth consideration and negotiations, to ultimately facilitate delivery of intervention schemes judged appropriate.
There are no formalised outputs or summaries associated with the engagement element of the study, however the feedback has been integral in defining the strategic opportunities and common themes, which are referenced throughout Section 6. It is also hoped that conversations facilitated through this process will continue, with any future developments that are taken forward at Ryde Esplanade.
Figure 3.2 Public Consultation Feedback highlighting interest and range of responses and opinions received.
E - 9
Figure 4.1 Ryde Boating Lake 2022, current a relatively hard edged, sterile environment with great potential for improvement
E - 10
08
Future Ready is a culture that WSP aim to implement and embed in all our projects. Applying a Future Ready approach during the development of proposals is essential to ensuring designs are resilient to change and focused on several key principals that can be applied to any scheme, regardless of scale and complexity. The Strategic Opportunities Development Framework does not provide detailed design
proposals, but outlines a framework by which future development should be aligned. That framework and its core principles have been linked back to the WSP Future Ready trends and should remain integral to further studies and proposals taken forward for Ryde Esplanade.
Further details can be found at:
wsp.com/en-GL/hubs/future-ready
DESIGN OBJECTIVES
Shifting work environment and talent expectations
Design team flexibly work from home & office reducing carbon emissions.
De-carbonization of the global economy
Encouraging more cycling and walking through safer networks.
Climate resiliency and sustainability
The proposals include planting new trees and moving away from monoculture grass lawns where feasible.
Evolving geopolitical reality
Embracing design techniques used in countries such as Netherlands to make local resources more accessible.
Increasing infrastructure
spending
Improved footway connections, accessible bridges, water management systems.
Technology and digitalization
Encouraging use of electric bicycles and scooters.
Equity and community outcomes
Encouraging new business opportunities, and safer more inclusive places for families to visit.
Movement Connectivity
Place Environment
Climate
09
Ryde Esplanade is almost unique on the Isle of Wight in providing a dense coverage of ecological and cultural protections that surround and overlap its public realm. These designations apply legal constraints in international and UK law and bring together local and national policies that govern construction and development. These protections are more than just regulatory, they recognise and acknowledge the exceptional quality and importance of the built and natural environments that combine to make the Esplanade such a valuable space for all those who live, work and visit there.
The landscape proposals set out in this report reflect and respond to the dual character of the Esplanade, its globally significant role as feeding grounds for wintering Brent Geese, alongside its iconic skyline views; its pattern of architectural heritage, the remaining fragments of ancient sand dunes and coastal woodlands; and the sense of movement, transit and interchange between wildlife and people,
Figure 5.2 Appley Tower, at the interface of wooded parkland, sandy beaches and walkways.
in a year-round setting that provides something for all.
One of the tasks that the report sets out to achieve is the softening of constructed and functional boundaries between conventional zones of action or priority, particularly drawing the character of Ryde’s natural shoreline into the fabric of the Esplanade’s public space, its greens, parks, and gardens, as well as into its built form and infrastructure. The intention is to increase and enrich a sense of encounter with the natural world and help to support a stronger constituency of local community engagement with, and protection of, the cultural and ecological pedigree of the town’s seafront. The Island’s UNESCO Biosphere designation provides essential justification and encouragement for such an approach.
Text Credit: Ian Boyd, Arc Consulting
Figure 5.3 West Beach, Ryde, at low tide. Perfect
habitat for waders.
Figure 5.1 Brent Geese, migrate from Russia to
Ryde for a warmer winter.
Figure 5.4 Oyster Catcher and Sanderlings
making Ryde a home.
N
Figure 7.1 Satellite image - Highlighting extents of Strategic Opportunities Development Framework area.
E - 13
11
This section considers the asset groups in more detail and provides a broad framework upon which future development could be based, which contributes to the creation of a successful and thriving Esplanade.
A summary of the factors contributing to potential strategic opportunities are provided, and precedent schemes included to stimulate further conversation and influence future development. Precedent schemes are by no means the final design solution, but it is hoped that certain elements and design styles/ ideas can inform initiatives within a similar setting.
The suggested interventions will align with the Future Ready design and ecological objectives noted previously, (see Section 4), to further maximise the immediate and longer term (future-proofing) benefits that can be incorporated in to the development framework.
Figure 7.2 Highlighting the ongoing works at the interchange
12
Introduction
Western Gardens has been an Esplanade feature since the end of the 19th century. Although few of its Historic features remain, it previously accommodated formal planting beds, a bandstand and an open-air theatre.
Figure 8.1 Western Gardens current arrangements
Although the gardens (in their current condition) display little in the way of quality, character or historic charm, the lawns provide a valued area of public open amity space. All consulted stakeholders reiterated the importance of retaining the area of open space, to maintain the valued views across the Solent and the need for investment to maximise the gardens potential. The gardens fall entirely within Ryde Conservation Area and the Solent Protection Area, which would both be designations for consideration in any permanent works that are proposed.
Western Gardens was a key focus for many of the discussions with stakeholders. Given recent building developments at the nearby Ryde Interchange scheme, there was much conversation about temporary toilet and café facilities being provided and the disruption during the implementation period, which seemed at the forefront of stakeholder concerns.
At the time of writing, Ryde Interchange works have commenced and temporary toilet blocks are present within Western Gardens.
Figure 8.2 Temporary toilet block facilities in Western Gardens
Constraints
Permeability through the gardens is considered good, but the space is disconnected from adjacent areas
Figure 8.3 Western access to Gardens via St.Thomas Street car park
and access from the west is through a public car park.
The lawns and scattered trees provide little in the way of aesthetics, functional vegetation or GI diversity, and the hard landscaped areas are of low quality and show few signs of planning or design rationale for the placement of street furniture, and use of spaces.
Based on stakeholder discussions, the key constraints considered for Western Gardens are:
Resistance to change from local community.
The need to retain / protect outdoor public space.
Adjacent to highway, introducing safety, acoustic, visual and air quality considerations.
Need to retain and maximise appreciation for expansive views of the Solent and pier.
Poor accessibility to beach.
Existing user habits and potential for antisocial behaviour.
Opportunities
Western Garden’s location provides strong links with both the Esplanade and Union Street, and it is a highly valued area of public open amenity space. Although Union Street is not included as part of this study, it is a key link into Ryde town centre and acts as a gateway to the High Street.
The Garden’s are afford expansive views across the Solent and towards the pier, and provide a popular congregation area for socialising, including formal and informal meetings such as the annual Scooter Rally.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key opportunities considered for Western Gardens are:
A chance to significantly improve visual aesthetics and ecological value of planting with a diverse range of coastal planting typologies (i.e. native dune species, soft cliffs and upper shores).
Potential to enhance a valued area of public open space at key nodal point between Esplanade and Ryde town centre.
Improvement of public realm features and legibility within transition spaces.
Creation of a destination to draw, engage and retain people to the western Esplanade.
Involvement of local community/artists in specific
design elements.
Enhancement of street furniture and quality of hard landscape materials to create a sense of place (i.e. reinstatement of bandstand), whilst also ensuring some elements are consistent with wider asset groups, to ensure design continuity across the Esplanade, and into the town centre.
13
Precedent Schemes and Example Interventions
Figure 8.4 Rhondebosch Common, Capetown - Example of biodiverse wildflower meadow with mown grass pathways.
Figure 8.5 Multi-functional lawn areas for general
public use and to provide flexible event spaces.
Figure 8.7 Shallow bund or dune features - Increased topographical interest for people, whilst also creating informal seating elements/socialising opportunities.
Figure 8.8 An example of coastal planting that is resilient to salt spray, high winds and dry conditions.
Figure 8.10 Western Gardens can be used as a flexible /
multi-functional space.
Figure 8.11 Mobile coffee shops and food vans can be used to draw interest to the Western Gardens.
Figure 8.6 Creating a wayfinding strategy that ties the Esplanade together is important. This example from Bristol displays a more conventional heritage style of signage.
Figure 8.9 Creative benching options can add attractive bespoke aesthetic quality to the gardens, whilst delivering functional street furniture for public use.
Figure 8.12 Reinstatement of the former bandstand can provide a link to Western Gardens heritage and create a landmark feature to support congregations and events.
Intervention Framework
The comprehensive feedback from stakeholders has confirmed that Western Gardens holds great potential, is regarded highly by the local community, and with a small number of interventions, could become a rich and diverse multi-functional space. There are good opportunities for enhanced GI cover and improved facilities for public use (i.e. for formal/informal socialising/ congregation, flexible/pop-up events space), to draw users into the space and create a distinct destination that people want to spend time in.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the interventions considered appropriate and likely to support key strategic goals at Western Gardens include:
Reconfiguration of footways to better support pedestrian movement and
congregation, and support increase of usable lawn areas.
Accommodate a newly erected bandstand feature to reinstate key historic feature, create a focal point at the western end of the Esplanade and provide an informal congregation area for public events/performances.
Implementation of an improved and biodiverse planting scheme to support ecological enhancement – themed on informal coastal planting, grassland and providing a degree of shelter with robust/hardy species to survive in the harsh coastal environment.
Improved functionality of lawn areas to support GI enhancement goals and introduce multi-functioning dune/bund features to create informal play, seating and shelter from the adjacent highway.
Introduction of services (i.e. electricity and water supply) to support the accommodation of temporary market stalls for public events.
Consideration of Future Ready design solutions, including sustainable drainage features (i.e. permeable paving solutions or rain gardens) and enhanced bike/scooter parking.
Installation of temporary or semi-permanent café/retail facility with outdoor seating, to create a destination within Western Gardens and mitigate for the temporary loss of Esplanade Café.
In addition to creating a unique sense of place, Western Gardens should be included in overarching public realm and legibility improvements, with new street furniture, public art initiatives, improved palette of hardscape materials and themed soft landscape across the wider Esplanade.
Accessibility improvements to the beach area (i.e. DDA compliant steps and ramps).
Figure 8.14 Mature trees present within Western Gardens, 2022
15
Sand dune/soft cliff aesthetic.
Feature benching that follow the contours of the footway and planting beds.
Large amenity lawns to encourage informal gatherings with an unbroken view out to sea.
Hard surfaced footways border the soft landscaped interior, creating a larger green space unbroken by paving.
N
Bandstand to promote historic links
- creating a gathering point/performance area, with some elemental protection.
Multi-level planting, from canopy through shrub layer to herbaceous.
Low earth bund reducing vehicle noise and screening highway adjacent to the Western Gardens - Integration of SUDs features where appropriate.
Temporary retail facility servicing the Western Gardens and drawing people to the space.
Figure 8.13 Western Gardens Concept Design
KEY
Existing building
Existing Sea Wall
Existing carriageway
Existing Tree
Proposed wildflower
meadow
Proposed amenity grass
Proposed planting bed
Proposed Tree
Proposed private property land
Proposed footway
Western Gardens Concept
This illustrative layout brings together the elements discussed during consultation events and reflected in this document. It provides an example of a simple yet robust space with improved biodiversity and multi-functional congregation area, achieved through relatively minimal intervention. The nature of changes would support a phased delivery to minimise impact upon user groups.
16
Introduction
The transport hub area has a rich history, providing a transport service to the community since 1864. The modes of transport have changed over the decades, but it has maintained a link to/from mainland ferry services for 150 years and is considered by many to be the Gateway to the Island.
The regeneration of Ryde Interchange area is focused on the railway station and bus terminus. It is hoped by many stakeholders that the Ryde Interchange scheme will be a catalyst for further development across the Esplanade, with regeneration of a key nodal point for various modes of transport/movement.
The Hover Terminal is also an integral part of the gateway to the island, and although not subject to the planned Ryde Interchange works, it is an integral part of the wider transport hub and has it’s own plans to support expansion and future growth.
Figure 9.2 Bus Station forecourt
The new and improved Interchange facility will promote sustainable transport links to and from Ryde, and footway improvement works will also filter out to the east and west to support pedestrian and cyclist connectivity. The scheme will benefit from improved legibility and movement for all modes of transport and is considered a fundamental driver for transforming the transport hierarchy in Ryde, promoting less reliance on private vehicle use and thus reducing traffic levels across the town.
Further increasing the Interchanges capabilities should be an aspiration for all future proposals and enhancements. This would include improved connectivity to the Hover Terminal, to provide a fully integrated transport hub, which could be further strengthened by ongoing discussions to enhance cycle/pedestrian connectivity/movement to the Pier Head.
Given the advanced nature of Ryde Interchange works, there were few discussions with stakeholders around interventions within the development area, but more in-depth discussions were had on improving connectivity to the Hover terminal and further promotion of sustainable transport modes across the wider Esplanade. It was evident that all stakeholders see significant benefit in providing a fully inclusive access link between the Hover Travel terminal and Railway Station, which has formed part of historic campaigns.
Figure 9.1 Ferry rail link from railway station to Ryde Pier Head Figure 9.3 Footbridge connection to Hover Terminal Figure 9.4 Hover Terminal building
17
Constraints
The Ryde Interchange development has a clearly defined role in supporting public access to transport links, both across the Isle of Wight and to/from the mainland. The proposed works will provide a great opportunity to eliminate some of the historic issues associated with the area, but there are still many constraints,whichcanposearisktofuturedevelopment. The poor pedestrian/cycle connectivity to the hover terminal and pier head is a key consideration, which is restricting the overall resources from becoming a fully integrated transport hub.
Based on stakeholder discussions, the key constraints considered for the Transport Hub are:
Established Interchange scheme design - No proposals/changes to be taken forward within the Interchange development footprint, although this is also considered an opportunity to facilitate further integrated Esplanade improvements.
Established hovercraft terminal and designated car parking area for users travelling to mainland for medical care.
Servicing access requirements to hover terminal and planned yard extension – Access to be incorporated into future proposals.
Ecology - Overwintering waders and Brent geese use the intertidal sand and mudflats across the whole of Ryde seafront to feed, roosting in safe parts of the upper shore, such as the edges of the hoverpad, before following the tide out again.
Solent Protection Area (SPA) - Development should consider opportunities to mitigate any potential impact upon SPA and propose mitigation/enhancement wherever possible.
Opportunities
The Transport Hub is benefiting from significant investment for the new Interchange scheme, which provides the biggest opportunity for the immediate area and wider Esplanade. The regenerated space provides a platform to promote improved links to assets in the east, west and north along Ryde Pier.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key opportunities considered for the Transport Hub are:
Build on momentum of Ryde Interchange regeneration and further promote improved legibility across wider Esplanade and connections to town centre beyond.
Hover Travel enhancement plans can support further growth of an integrated transport hub.
Improved Wayfinding and information services will support movement to and from the transport hub, and filter out to the surrounding amenities.
Improved connectivity to Wightlink (pier head) for pedestrians/cyclists and Hover Travel, would further promote a fully integrated transport hub and gateway to the island.
Opportunity to promote biodiversity and GI enhancements within public realm and seawall, to benefit the SPA.
Enhanced public realm incorporating distinctive features/materials will create a sense of place and elements that can be made consistent with wider asset areas will provide design cohesion and continuity across the Esplanade.
Figure 9.5 Down The Line biodiversity planting scheme implemented on disused railway platform
18
Precedent Schemes and Example Interventions
Figure 9.7 Stirling Station, Scotland - Glass lift attached to the pedestrian footbridge provides a high quality access solution, that allows views out during transition.
Figure 9.8 Bexhill on Sea - Attractive planting beds installed along the seafront. Planting is tolerant to the harsh conditions seen in this area, and provides all- year-round and seasonal variation.
Figure 9.9 Kings Beach, Tahoe - Local artists could transform plain walls around the terminal area, such as this beautiful example from Tahoe.
Figure 9.10 Good quality wayfinding and information boards can be a big help for tourists and promote links and connections throughout wider area.
Figure 9.11 Bexhill on Sea - Well planned planting promotes GI links and improved biodiversity, and does not need to occupy a large area or be overly challenging to maintain.
Figure 9.12 Laguna Beach, USA - Beautiful example of seaside artwork, turning a grey wall into a visually stimulating place to visit.
Figure 9.13 Sunabe Okinawa - Example of seawall paving providing an attractive and bespoke feature, creating distinct sense of place.
Figure 9.14 Pompano Beach, Florida - Art installations/ exhibitions can be both temporary and permanent to reflect seasons/particular events/times of year etc. creating interest throughout the Esplanade.
Figure 9.15 The Installation of EV chargers within the Hover Terminal car park would further promote sustainable transport use.
19
Intervention Framework
Through engagement with key stakeholders and a realisation of the opportunity to create a fully encompassing transport hub for all modes of transport, there are clear intervention schemes that would support a fully inclusive transport hub for all transport modes entering and leaving Ryde. Sustainable transport links could also be further promoted to reduce the reliance on vehicles and need for extensive parking areas.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the interventions considered appropriate and likely to support key strategic goals at the Transport Hub include:
Implementation of improved pedestrian/cycle access and connectivity between Ryde Interchange, Hover Terminal and Ryde Pier Head.
Repurposing of car parking area adjacent to Hover Terminal, to better support servicing requirements for facilities and encourage rationalisation of Quay Road car park. This should be delivered collaboratively with Hover Travel and other service providers to ensure proposals align with ongoing improvement works that are being taken forward in the locality.
Consideration of Future Ready design solutions within area of car parking, including sustainable drainage features, electric car charging points and enhanced bike/scooter parking.
Proposals to be included in overarching public realm and legibility improvements, with new street furniture, public art initiatives, improved palette of hardscape materials and themed soft landscape, to tie in with installations across the wider Esplanade.
Implementation of an improved and more biodiverse planting scheme to support ecological enhancement both on land and at sea. Planting typology must be coherent with wider Esplanade improvements, to establish common themes and ensure continuity of spaces, but bespoke areas developed to support targeted species.
E - 22
Figure 9.16 Down The Line biodiversity planting scheme implemented on disused railway platform
20
Hover Terminal
Car park - Rationalised provision, with service access to hover terminal and light traffic drop-off
Wide tree lined footway leading to waterfront and Leisure Zone 1, creating an
inviting approach for pedestrians.
Enhanced existing Rose Garden
Lifts built into footbridge allowing easier access over the railway to the bus terminal, coach parking and town.
N
Figure 9.6 Transport Hub & Leisure Zone 1 Concept Design
KEY
Existing building Existing railway
Existing Tree Proposed Tree
Spaces for proposed temporary/pop-up elements
Proposed planting bed
Proposed carriageway
Proposed cycleway Proposed footway
Sea Wall
Transport Hub Concept
This illustrative layout considers the potential interventions that would support the development of a fully integrated transport hub, with inclusive access between Ryde Interchange and the Hover Travel terminal. The configuration proposes a remodelled car parking arrangement adjacent to the hover terminal, which supports the objectives of wider intervention areas to reduce parking at Quay Road and promote the use of sustainable transport links (such as the proposed new cycleway) to/from Ryde via the upgraded transport hub.
21
Introduction
The asset group encapsulates several private and council owned assets, including Ryde Ice Rink/Arena, Quay Road Car Park, Ryde Skatepark, Esplanade Pavilion (comprising Pavilion Bar, Superbowl and redundant Balcony Bar), and associated public realm. The Ryde Place Plan (Arc Consulting, 2020), refers to the collection of these assets as the Central Esplanade Social Enterprise Zone, given its capability to support investment in business, industry, employment and training, to build sustainable economic growth.
Figure 10.1 Redundant Ryde Arena building
The asset group is generous in size and occupies a prime Esplanade location with a panoramic outlook over the Solent and useful pedestrian links to wider Esplanade features. There is a lack of legibility in multiple areas within the public realm, making some areas challenging to navigate in an efficient way, with car parking dominating the waterside aspect.
The quality, function and historic merit of current built form varies, yet all structures appear to have suffered from a lack of investment and coherent planning, which is linked to long leasehold agreements and the absence of a regeneration strategy.
Figure 10.2 Quay Road car park located adjacent to waterfront
There was much discussion regarding Leisure Area 1, with stakeholders desperate to see improvements due to the many historic issues associated with the assets within. It was stated by many that investment in the Ice Rink/Arena would soon be agreed, but there were few prospects for the Pavilion and Skatepark. These poorly maintained assets were discussed at length, with most parties agreeing that investment was critical to the success of the Esplanade.
Nearly all parties were in agreement that rationalisation of Quay Road car park would unlock the areas full potential, support improved legibility in the public realm and further promote the use of sustainable transport modes. This approach would also free up prime waterfront areas to accommodate new and improved facilities.
Parties engaged during this process were aware of the challenges linked to the privately owned and leased assets within Leisure Area 1. For the purposes of the study, it has been assumed that proposals will consider the plans made by asset tenants/owners, but
will not be governed by their current use or condition. Arrangements to manage commercial issues (i.e. negotiating lease agreements or purchases) will be determined by future design development and implementation of regeneration works, and proposals within this document are provided as an informative guide only and as a vision for potential interventions.
Figure 10.3 Expansive Solent views from prime waterside location
Constraints
The lack of investment across the asset group has resulted in an uninspiring and underachieving zone at the heart of the Esplanade. The poor legibility of public spaces and lack of coherent style/character can make it challenging for pedestrians to navigate some areas, with no inclusive flowing route along the waterfront, and towards Ryde Interchange. During high season and busy periods, vehicles dominate the expanse of car parking, which is framed by the seawall, and large redundant structures and buildings in vital need of investment and repair. The skatepark is one of the few free recreational assets along the Esplanade, but is situated in a location with little natural surveillance and is in poor condition.
22
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key constraints considered for the Leisure Area 1 are:
Presence of privately owned assets with long leases make investment challenging to secure. These structures have large fixed footprints and associated vehicular access/servicing requirements.
Car parking charges provide the local authority with one of its biggest incomes - Removal/reduction would need to be justifiable.
Historic poor planning, placing car parking in a prime waterside aspect, which dilutes opportunities for flowing pedestrian movement.
User habits – There is an historic reliance on cars to access the Esplanade and it will be challenging to change user habits and encourage more sustainable transport links, via the newly developed Interchange scheme.
Skatepark is in an unsustainable location at the waterside, with no natural surveillance. Investment in this asset is also required.
The Pavilion is a listed structure.
Opportunities
The asset group occupies a prime waterside location at the heart of the Esplanade. Proposals should look to maximise the benefits afforded to the location and its excellent links west to Union Street and east to Appley. The area is also generous in size, but would benefit significantly from a coherent and well-structured regeneration of built form and public realm areas.
Based on stakeholder discussions, the key opportunities considered for the Leisure Area 1 are:
Key regeneration/redevelopment opportunity for both public realm and built form - subject to further study and negotiations for privately owned assets.
Consider locations for multi-functional spaces to support public events and tie in to improved pedestrian/cycle movement.
Maximise benefits of seafront/marine location and
expansive views across the Solent.
Build upon success of local businesses and consider
opportunities for flexible commercial premises.
Support objectives of the wider Esplanade through providing infrastructure and resources that will draw people to Ryde and encourage economic growth.
Rationalisation of parking area to support enhancement of public realm and promote use of more sustainable transport measures via Ryde Interchange.
Opportunity to promote biodiversity and BGI enhancements within public realm and seawall, to benefit the SPA, including integrations of high tide roost habitats, safe from people and dogs.
Enhance public realm, incorporating distinctive features/materials to create bespoke elements and other features that are consistent with wider asset areas, to provide design continuity and better legibility across the Esplanade.
Figure 10.4 Listed Pavilion structure in poor repair & underutilised Figure 10.5 Skate park closed at time of visit for safety issues
23
Precedent Schemes and Example Interventions
Figure 10.6 Wapping Wharf, Bristol - Assembly of container units could host a mixture of permanent and temporary (pop-up) facilities for restaurants, bars, museums and shops overlooking the sea at the gateway to the island, creating a more dynamic and lively space in the short-term.
Figure 10.7 Arced/curvy seating could tie design language through with undulating/flowing/ contoured grass areas next to it. Mimicking the rolling sea/waves.
Figure 10.8 Tree lined plazas are attractive gathering places. This example goes a step further adding an interactive water feature.
Figure 10.9 Gantry Plaza, New York - Seating can be visually intriguing and playful, with carefully planned opportunities to integrate ‘ride-on’ features for skaters, but which also minimise user (people sitting/ skater) conflict.
Figure 10.10 The asset group has the flexibility to support a variety of permanent or temporary installations whilst maintaining service access, and has good links to transport hub and fantastic outlook
Figure 10.11 The green infrastructure within the public realm can become far more biodiverse, such as the above coastal garden.
Figure 10.12 The Battery, New York - Sea walls can have seating integrated into them, such as this example.
Figure 10.13 Example of a public realm plaza with flexible/moveable cafe seating, with trees and planting.
Intervention Framework
There are several challenges to overcome within Leisure Area 1, but there are straightforward flexible interventions, which could provide immediate benefits at the heart of the Esplanade, and promote long term investment in an underachieving and poorly designed location at the heart of the Esplanade. Proposals, both long and short term, should maximise the benefits associated with the prime waterside location and look to address many of the key concerns and ideas that arose from the consultation process.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the interventions considered appropriate and likely to support key strategic goals at Leisure Area 1 include:
Short-term repurposing of the car park to accommodate events, temporary and flexible commercial units and/or market stalls, supported by external seating and resources to draw people to the Esplanade.
Rationalisation of overall car parking provision, removing from waterside locations and repurposing in a more efficient way adjacent to the Hover Travel terminal.
Relocation of the skate park to a more sustainable location with improved natural surveillance and accessibility, which would have the added benefit of opening up the front of the pavilion and supporting pedestrian flow improvements.
Regeneration of ice rink plot and associated public realm to create a
destination for the benefit of island residents and tourists.
Renovation of historic Pavilion building and associated lawn areas, and occupation of redundant roof top facilities adjacent to Marina.
Consideration of Future Ready design solutions within area of parking, including sustainable drainage features, electric car charging points and enhanced bike/scooter parking.
Proposals to create a distinct sense of place, but also be responsive to overarching public realm and legibility improvements, with elements including, new street furniture, public art initiatives, improved palette of hardscape materials and themed soft landscape being consistent with other elements proposed across the wider Esplanade.
Implementation of an improved and biodiverse planting scheme to support ecological enhancement both on land and at sea. Planting typology to be coherent with wider Esplanade improvements to establish common themes and continuity of spaces.
Public art initiatives incorporated into public realm proposals, including opportunities to repurpose the concrete revetment and create common themes that can bleed out to surrounding areas.
Figure 10.15 View past the Ice-Rink and Pavilion, 2022, highlighting the lack of mature trees
25
Central Gardens, with elements of coastal planting.
Car Park / service access.
Temporary/pop-up unit area on N
Quay Road Car Park, housing local businesses, restaurants, cafés and shops overlooking Central Gardens, Solent and hovercraft approach - Provides revenue opportunity in short- term.
Flexible plot to accommodate realigned skate park or other leisure facility.
Newly renovated Ryde Arena building will create a focal point within Leisure Area 1.
Hover Terminal.
Realigned footway and service road, creating better permeability through the space and greater legibility.
Car Park - Rationalised provision, but able to service Hover Terminal and Ryde Arena.
Pavilion building with improved public realm setting and access.
Figure 10.14 Leisure Area 1 concept with links to improved Transport Hub
KEY
Existing building Existing railway
Existing Tree Proposed Tree
Spaces for proposed temporary/pop-up elements
Proposed amenity grass
Proposed planting bed
Proposed carriageway
Proposed cycleway Proposed footway
Sea Wall
Leisure Area 1 Concept
The illustrative configuration would support improved movement and legibility for pedestrians, cyclists and cars. Development plots would provide crucial commercial floorspace with an outlook over the Solent, and flexible spaces provide an opportunity for multi-functional assets or leisure provision. Transition spaces and development plots would benefit from improved public realm areas, increased green infrastructure and congregation spaces, and would flow into the wider Esplanade.
26
Introduction
The asset group has limited capacity to accommodate change, with defined character and assets that are popular and well visited. The area offers valuable amenity (retail, hospitality) resources to tourists and residents, covering from Eastern Gardens to the Eastern Esplanade Public Toilets. It includes the formal gardens, lawns, commercial units (including food and beverage outlets), Ryde Marina Bowls Club, Vectis Boating & Fishing Club and Peter Pan Funfair & Amusements.
Figure 11.1 Ryde Marina Bowls Club is an historic asset that is still very popular
Like Western Gardens, Eastern Gardens, Vectis Boating & Fishing Club and Ryde Marina Bowls Club have been an ever-present Esplanade feature since the 19th century. They offer valuable open space and combine publicly accessible amenity, with member- only recreational facilities. The remainder of the asset group is comprised primarily of Peter Pan Funfair and adjacent retail units, including the Harbour House cocktail bar. Although these assets may lack historic merit, they reflect the typical features of many British seaside destinations and are a key draw for tourists
Figure 11.2 New facilities combine with old to provide an array of assets that draw people to the area
and those visiting Ryde from the wider island.
The public open space (i.e. lawns) and gardens were the focus for much of the stakeholder discussions. Stakeholders reinforced the value of the existing public open space, whilst confirming the subconscious acceptance that many of the asset group elements within, be able to continue to contribute to the overall success of the Esplanade, without the need for intervention or significant change.
Figure 11.3 Gated entrance to Eastern Gardens
Constraints
The established character, existing value of open space and economic benefits associated with current seaside amenities are the biggest constraint to strategic interventions within the asset group. Like much of the Esplanade, there is little character and legibility within the public realm, and pedestrian movement is impacted by vehicle access through Eastern Gardens and absence of fluid transition spaces adjacent to the pavilion.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key constraints considered for Leisure Area 2 are:
The value of existing outdoor green space and recreation facilities, with a need to retain and enhance their setting where possible.
The asset group runs parallel to a busy highway, creating a safety, acoustic, air quality and visual detractor for users of the open lawned area.
A need to retain and improve existing access to the Marina and beach.
Established Esplanade/seaside resources (i.e. bar, shops and amusements).
Shared surface, which forms existing vehicle access and commercial unit servicing routes.
Existing public toilets provide valuable resource and should not be removed.
Figure 11.4 Primary pedestrian route also acts as vehicular servicing access along waterfront
27
Opportunities
Public realm and open space interventions provide a good opportunity for improvement of the asset group, including the enhancement of lawns and gardens, and restriction of access for vehicles along key pedestrian routes. In addition to the high value open space, Leisure Area 2 provides numerous amenities to users of the Esplanade, whilst acting as a valuable transition space adjacent to the beach and Marina. Bars, food outlets and retail units adjacent to the Marina are popular facilities, but commercial floorspace is limited.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key opportunities considered for Leisure Area 2 are:
Green Infrastructure enhancement of already established soft landscape areas that support biodiversity improvements, community-led planting initiatives and maximising public open space.
Enhancement of established (i.e. recreational facilities, bars and cafés), features with a defined use, to build upon existing success.
Outlets adjacent to the Marina are successful and there is a wider desire to build on their success, with possibility for introducing additional commercial units.
Enhanced public realm incorporating distinctive features/ materials to create bespoke sense of place , with other elements that are consistent with wider asset areas, to provide design continuity and better legibility across the Esplanade.
Intervention Framework
Figure 11.5 Asset group fronts directly onto beach
The defined character of Leisure Area 2 restricts the need for significant intervention, but the success of assets within the area provides a platform for more subtle changes that could maximise the success of established features.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the interventions considered appropriate and likely to support key strategic goals at Leisure Area 2 include:
Introduction of further retail units adjacent to Marina.
Restricting vehicular access through Eastern Gardens and regeneration of space to provide a pocket park destination.
Introduction of management measures for shared surface areas required to support servicing of Marina and retail units.
Enhancement of lawned areas to provide natural seating and screening that improve the quality of congregation space and support wider biodiversity objectives.
Improved and inclusive access to beach area, moving primary pedestrian routes away from highway corridor.
Consideration of Future Ready design solutions within public realm areas.
Proposals to be reflective of overarching public realm and legibility improvements, with new street furniture, public art initiatives, improved palette of hardscape materials and themed soft landscape providing continuity and consistency across the wider Esplanade.
Implementation of an improved and biodiverse planting scheme to support ecological enhancement both on land and at sea. Planting typology to be coherent with wider Esplanade improvements to establish common themes and continuity of spaces.
Note: No Illustrative Concept Plan provided due to minimal capacity of asset group to accommodate change.
Precedent Schemes and Example Interventions
Figure 11.6 Bespoke bollards can add additional aesthetic quality to the area and create a distinctive character and sense of place (both for this area and connecting through with wider Esplanade).
Figure 11.7 Proposed commercial units could be permanent or temporary (flexible spaces for pop-up street vendors), promoting independent local artisan businesses.
Figure 11.8 These seaside shops in Florida have a distinctive character and sense of place.
New commercial units could follow a similar low-cost design theme to enhance the setting of the asset group.
Figure 11.9 Creating footway routes that have good visibility into other areas facilitates pedestrian navigation and surveillance. The seafront at Brexhill-on-Sea illustrates excellent integration of wayfinding, visibility & green
infrastructure. E - 30
28
Introduction
Ryde Marina has been considered as a standalone asset group, with consideration of its immediate transition spaces and how interventions might tie into proposed plans by RTC to improve the working harbour. The asset covers the working harbour from the eastern periphery of Quay Road Car Park through to Harbour Beach.
Figure 12.1 Marina slipway accessed from Quay Road Car Park (Leisure Area 1)
With Ryde Town Council (RTC) taking ownership of Ryde Marina and having aspirations for a 5-year Redevelopment Plan, opportunities are largely limited, and those considered are aligned with the aspirations of RTC.
Note: At the time of writing, RTC have already started improvement works with the installation of new flag poles and harbourside offices.
Constraints
The working harbour is itself a constraint, due to the established infrastructure and recognised role it plays within the wider seafront area. Although in its infancy, early improvement works by RTC have proved popular
and enhanced the appearance of supporting features, and it is hoped this will continue under the proposed Redevelopment Plan.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key constraints considered for Ryde Marina are:
Need to retain marina user and servicing access via slipway and pontoons.
Ecological designations and protection requirements associated with the Solent and evolving Saltmarsh community.
Implementation of Redevelopment Plan by RTC.
Figure 12.2 New Marina facilities installed by Ryde Town Council
Opportunities
Improvements to Ryde Marina have started and building on the momentum of these improvements is a significant opportunity. With RTC focusing on interventions to the working harbour, this study considers the opportunities that might support its integration with the wider Esplanade.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key opportunities considered for Ryde Marina are:
Promote as a recognised Esplanade asset, with
defined role and established user group.
Build on momentum of recent improvements RTC have introduced since taking over Marina from IoW Council, with plans for further interventions and better integration with Esplanade.
Saltmarsh community is establishing to the west side of the harbour - Opportunity to enhance and promote further biodiversity benefits.
The harbour provides a useful refuge and feeding area for some species, especially in winter (including for example Kingfisher), and there is much scope to develop design ideas for enhanced habitat features that also increase the likelihood of wildlife encounters for people walking alongside and around the harbour.
Figure 12.3 View across Solent through low tide Marina
E - 31
29
Intervention Framework
The feedback from stakeholders affirmed the community’s satisfaction with the improvements taking place at Ryde Marina. Through continued guidance and support, investments in the Marina could further aid integration with surrounding assets and promote the Marina as an Esplanade landmark.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the interventions considered appropriate and likely to support key strategic goals at Ryde Marina include:
Improved Marina access for pedestrians and service vehicles.
Revised Marina office location – Already implemented by RTC.
Proposals to be reflective of overarching public realm and legibility improvements, with new street furniture, public art initiatives, improved palette of hardscape materials and themed soft landscape providing continuity and consistency across the wider Esplanade.
Implementation of an improved and biodiverse planting scheme to support ecological enhancement both on land and at sea. Planting typology to be coherent with wider Esplanade improvements, to establish common themes and continuity of spaces.
Introduction of infrastructure features for coastal wildlife within the
harbour - roost pontoons, fish refuge habitat beneath pontoons etc.
Note: No Illustrative Concept Plan provided due to minimal capacity of asset group to accommodate change.
Figure 12.4 New beach hire resource introduced by Ryde Town Council
Precedent Schemes and Example Interventions
Figure 12.5 The public realm throughout the Marina promenade could be accented by artwork (metal inlay example shown), to add bespoke character and relate the space to context (i.e. the local fossil hunting).
Figure 12.6 Potential for areas of the Marina to integrate provision of street furniture that encourages rest and play (i.e. interactive features), such as this example from Henley Square, Australia.
Figure 12.7 Introducing colour into the floor scape of the promenade would add vibrancy, livening the space up, from what could be perceived as an existing monotone colour palette.
Figure 12.8 Concrete form liners can be used to transform walls into textures art features.
E - 32
30
Introduction
The asset group runs along the Esplanade from Ryde Beach Sand Playground through to North Walk. It captures several assets, including The Captains Table café, Waterside Pool, Canoe Lake, Ryde Splash Park, Ryde Beach, and car parking and pedestrian area that runs parallel to the beach.
Due to the nature of assets within the area, stakeholder discussions focused largely on the Canoe Lake and its immediate surroundings, with a view that there was little that could enhance the transition space from the Splash Park through to North Walk.
The Canoe Lake was completed in 1880 and provided a popular recreational destination in the century that followed, but in recent times it has become an underutilised and largely neglected feature of the Esplanade, with bird population issues and poor water management.
The Canoe Lake was a key focus for many of the stakeholder discussions that were had, with most wanting to see immediate action to improve the area, and interventions that would build on the success of the Waterside Pool. Beach access and amenities were also discussed several times, as was the opportunity to create a water sports/recreation hub that might serve the beach area and wider community needs.
Constraints
The asset group is largely occupied by the Canoe Lake, which is an historic asset and falls within a designated Site of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC). Poor management of the asset group means it displays little historic charm, and at times it is overrun by birds. The lake itself is in poor condition and the Splash Park has not been maintained (currently closed for safety reasons), meaning much of the community would like to see interventions made.
Figure 13.1 The asset group supports a key pedestrian link along the waterfront to Appley
Figure 13.2 Bird overpopulation is a key detractor of Canoe Lake Figure 13.3 The asset group has good access to the beach and is
supported by public parking around the perimeter of the Canoe Lake
31
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key constraints considered for Leisure Area 3 are:
The Canoe Lake area is under local authority ownership, with leases in place for the Waterside Pool and Captains Table café.
The Canoe Lake is an historic asset and wider area is a designated SINC.
Historic maintenance and investment issues associated with the Splash Park mean it is likely to be passed back to the local authority by Waterside Community Trust, to be rectified.
Bird over-population and water quality issues.
Lake water quality means little or no recreational water based activities can take advantage and use the asset (missed opportunity).
Figure 13.4 Waterside Pool is a popular community facility and has aspirations to expand
Opportunities
The asset group occupies a large portion of land that is served by ample public parking and good access to the beach. The area is also a key transition space on the route between Ryde and Appley, with heavy pedestrian footfall that could benefit from enhanced public realm features.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key opportunities considered for Leisure Area 3 are:
Waterside Pool and the Captains Table café are established and popular community facilities, with aspirations by the operators to expand.
Figure 13.5 Splash Park is currently in disrepair and locked to public access
The Canoe Lake and Splash Park are poorly managed assets, with an opportunity to be regenerated, building on the success of Waterside Pool.
The asset group is in a desirable location, along with easy access to parking and the beach.
Potential biodiversity enhancement opportunities (i.e. restoring marginal/aquatic planting around lake to provide naturalistic edges and enhance the dune setting of the SINC).
Partial or full infill of Canoe Lake to provide substantial increase in usable space for further facilities and creation of recreational hub.
Relocation of the skate park to this area to provide improved and robust skating facilities at a more secure location with improved natural surveillance.
Figure 13.6 Highlighting the existing Boating Lake & Splash Pool
32
Precedent Schemes and Example Interventions
Figure 13.7 Elevated boardwalks/platform/deck that reaches out over the lake could allow pedestrians to feel more connected to the water, whilst allowing birds to pass underneath unhindered.
Figure 13.8 The reed beds in Bristols Floating Harbour, are a good example of how biodiversity through integration of GI, can be maximised over a water body. This could be applied around the central island or adjacent to the walkways.
Figure 13.9 The skatepark can spill out along the Esplanade. In places it can be incorporated into furniture, such as the example image above.
Figure 13.10 With a more central location & improved safety, night-time skating can become very attractive, such as this park in Alingsas, Sweden.
Figure 13.11 Opportunity to increase participation in sea sports though the rental of equipment; wetsuits, kayaks, snorkelling, Stand Up Paddleboarding, etc.
Figure 13.12 A regenerated splash pool area, with new/additional water features and upgraded floor scape, could be a far more appealing and well used local destination, similar to this example from the New Brighton Splash Pool.
Figure 13.13 Lake in Pittville Park, Cheltenham. Opportunity to divert birds away from footways by removing one of the
footways around the lake and introducing a planted soft edge (slope) to the lake edge creating a more natural habitat.
Intervention Framework
The asset group was subject to much discussion during the stakeholder engagement, with drastically varying suggestions on what might or might not allow the Canoe Lake and surrounding area to thrive. However, the overarching themes related to the need for immediate intervention in improving the lake and Splash Park, and that the success of the swimming pool and café should be built upon. There was also much discussion on the need for a water sports hub at the Esplanade, and the ease of access to parking and the beach suggested that the Canoe Lake was the ideal location.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the interventions considered appropriate and likely to support key strategic goals at Leisure Area 3 include:
Improved and fully inclusive access to the beach from parking along North Walk.
Although there is limited scope to change the Waterside Pool and Captains Table café, wider strategic interventions should be proposed to support their aspirations to expand and improve the public realm adjacent to these features.
Creation of a recreation hub, accommodating water sports hire centre and further sports facilities, including an improved skate park.
Measures imposed to manage bird over-population and provide protection for endangered species that use the Canoe Lake.
Further investment in the Splash Park and its repair/maintenance, to tie in with wider aspirations to create a recreation hub on the Esplanade.
Water management regime introduced for the Canoe Lake to improve water quality, maximise amenity value and enhance the setting of the SINC.
Reduction in lake coverage to create an additional development plot to accommodate new facilities. This would support the aspirations to create a recreation hub and enhance facilities at the Waterside Pool. Removal of island to ensure sufficient remaining open water habitat.
Consideration of Future Ready design solutions within area of parking, including electric car charging points and enhanced bike/scooter parking.
Proposalstobereflectiveofoverarchingpublicrealmandlegibilityimprovements, with new street furniture, public art initiatives, improved palette of hardscape materials and themed soft landscape providing continuity and consistency across the wider Esplanade linking through to Appley.
Implementation of an improved and biodiverse planting scheme to support ecological enhancement of the SINC, both on land and within the lake.
Note: No Illustrative Concept Plan provided due to minimal capacity of asset group to accommodate change.
E - 36
Figure 13.14 Ryde Esplanade along Ryde Beach, highlighting the existing muted
nature and basic floor scape materials palette, 2022
34
Introduction
The Esplanade has been evolving since its early establishment in the mid nineteenth century. Piecemeal planning and development over the intervening period has resulted in the Esplanade as it is seen today. Due to an absence of a coordinated strategy or planning approach, movement across the Esplanade is disjointed in parts. There is little recognisable character or themes that connect the spaces or tie the various asset groups together.
Figure 14.1 Historic waterside transition spaces with gardens
The asset group covers the key routes that pass through and between the other asset groups previously discussed. Although each of the routes have their own distinct character, constraints, and opportunities discussed more specifically previously as part of the other individual asset groups, the ‘transition spaces’ asset looks more widely at the common themes and interventions that can be implemented across all spaces, to provide commonality and establish placemaking principals.
Figure 14.2 Prime waterside space with great outlook that transitions nowhere and lacks quality or distinct character
Constraints
Although transition spaces hold great capacity for change and improvement, they are a heavily constrained asset. They are governed by existing features and infrastructure, and framed by the built form which fall under various lease arrangements and ownerships. These restrictions have resulted in a number of challenging areas for pedestrians to navigate, due to a combination of poor legibility and wayfinding features.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key constraints considered for the Transition Spaces are:
Existing routes are recognised amongst local/ regular users of the network, who may be resistant to change.
There is an established pallet of functional materials and street furniture in place and any change may be received negatively by local community.
Connectivity restrictions, such as St. Thomas Street car park.
Challenging pedestrian connectivity between Esplanade and High Street due to gradient of Union Street.
Potential for conflict between user groups, particularly where cars can currently access pedestrianised areas.
Servicing requirements of existing and future development.
Figure 14.3 Primary pedestrian route shared with public vehicle access and lacking any quality or character
35
Opportunities
Transition spaces, generally, provide great opportunity to transform how the Esplanade is used and can accommodate changes that could better connect the strategic asset groups. Although each transition space serves a different purpose and element of the Esplanade, they should be approached as a collective, with common adaptable design proposals that can successfully be implemented across all.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the key opportunities considered for the Transition Spaces are:
Creation of spaces that tie in with wider strategic opportunities (i.e. newly proposed facilities), areas to congregate and socialise, and an overall objective to make pedestrian moment safer.
Promote community-led initiatives and art schemes to tie different aspects of the Esplanade together.
Creation of flexible spaces to tie in with Esplanade
events (i.e. pop-up markets or performances).
Develop and install a distinct palette of street furniture and materials to provide cohesion between spaces/asset groups and improved legibility for all modes of transport and users (principally pedestrian).
Improved flow of pedestrian traffic from
the bottom of Union Street to Appley.
Note: No Illustrative Concept Plan provided due to minimal capacity of asset group to accommodate change.
Intervention Framework
To combat the historic shortcomings, it is important that there is a clear strategy to connect proposed development and existing features. In addition to supporting placemaking aspirations, a concise design guide for transition spaces would provide coherence across the Esplanade, through themes that can be implemented within the public realm.
Based on stakeholder discussions, professional opinion, technical appraisal and design considerations, the interventions considered appropriate and likely to support key strategic goals of the Transition Spaces include:
Reconfiguration of footways to better support pedestrian movement and congregation, catering for existing conditions and future improvements.
Primary pedestrian routes reconfigured to tie in with strategic proposals (i.e. newly formed or enhance congregation areas or destinations), rationalising the flow of traffic and providing better outlook for users (i.e. placing pedestrians adjacent to seafront as opposed to Esplanade Road).
Establishment of a coherent street furniture and materials palette that can be implemented on current and future works along the Esplanade, to collectively bring all areas together and promote a fully legible and coherent package of improvements.
Integration of public art initiatives within Transition Spaces, to provide further bespoke richness and support relevant local themes that can expanded upon.
Provision of Future Ready design solutions, such as sustainable drainage features.
Implementation of an improved and biodiverse planting palette to support ecological enhancements. Planting typology to be coherent with wider Esplanade improvements to establish common themes and continuity of spaces.
Figure 14.4 There are many well-used transition spaces across the Esplanade
Figure 14.5 WSP impression of superimposed art along the sea wall, outside the Ryde Ice rink. Every wall is a potential canvas for bespoke creativity.
36
Figure 14.6 Planting beds in Brighton that line transition spaces have seasonal colour and interest through planting wild flower mixes, which reinforces underlying year-round colour.
Figure 14.7 Herne Bay seafront has adopted a traditional style of street furniture along with a resin bound footway surfacing. The buff colour gives these transition spaces a brighter, warmer and softer aesthetic.
Figure 14.8 Walkways can incorporate breakout spaces for rest, or enjoying a particular view.
Figure 14.9 Grey To Green in Sheffield, uses water running off roads and footways, to help irrigate vibrant rain gardens bordering transition spaces. These features also help control and alleviate the impact of flood events.
Figure 14.10 Rest features can be incorporated into flood defence features, such
as sea walls that may border transition spaces.
Figure 14.11 Trees lining transition spaces can provide a juxtaposition of spatial character, bringing much needed shade, framing specific views/focal features and softening hard edges.
37
This high-level study has identified several opportunities for enhancement of existing assets along Ryde Esplanade, both within the public realm and built form. With the ongoing Ryde Interchange development forming a new public transport hub at the heart of the Esplanade, it is important that the redeveloped facilities are utilised as a catalyst for change and further growth. The primary focus of this document has been on proposing interventions for improving general public realm legibility across the Esplanade to facilitate and encourage pedestrian flow, whilst working within the parameters of accommodating current arrangements of existing infrastructure (i.e. highways layout, built form, sea wall, etc). Following on from these more immediately achievable suggestive proposals, it is hoped they can, in turn, be used to promote the development of a robust wider public realm strategy, which would also seek more significant improvements, such as building/facility relocation, rationalising highways layout, junction redesign and/or alteration of vehicle flow along the Esplanade. These more longer term aspirational improvements could further alleviate pedestrian/vehicle conflicts, promoting a more sustainable, pedestrian-friendly environment, where active travel is brought to the fore. Placing future-proofing and legibility at the forefront of regeneration plans will also allow the establishment of a comprehensive framework, by which further development can be guided and built upon.
To inform possible future next steps for enhancing Ryde Esplanade, suggestive interventions have been broken down in to short and long term, and are detailed in the sections that follow.
Possible Future Interventions – Short Term
There are several immediate short term interventions (as discussed previously in the document) that could be implemented across the Esplanade to support growth aspirations and address the concerns of key stakeholder groups. Short term interventions are typically temporary or semi-permanent elements that can be introduced relatively quickly, or as part of routine management/maintenance, to provide an instant impact. Short term interventions introduce less disruption for local residents, are less financially burdensome and are typically not subject to onerous consenting requirements. They are therefore an attractive offering to the organisations charged with implementing change, and can facilitate investment in long-term interventions.
Figure 15.1 Short term interventions can support a degree of market testing to inform future ‘long term’ intervention proposals.
Short term ‘quick-win’ interventions considered suitable for Ryde Esplanade include:
Placement of temporary/movable assets within Western Gardens to provide food, beverage and retail outlets;
Placement of temporary/movable assets within Quay Road Car Park and reinstatement of market and/or craft fayre;
Measures to manage vehicular access to Eastern Gardens and along revetment adjacent to Ryde Marina;
Implementation of more biodiverse planting schemes to supplement existing soft landscape areas along the Esplanade;
Establishment of community art and planting initiatives to allow stakeholder groups to take ownership of smaller redundant spaces, and introduce richness and interest in less frequented areas;
Partial closure of Quay Road car park during events, run alongside initiatives to promote sustainable transport use into Ryde;
Development of robust and appropriately themed palette of street furniture, to be implemented as and when exiting assets are replaced;
Introduction of measures to improve inclusive access to Ryde Beach; and
Establishment of management plan to support reduction in water fowl population at the canoe lake and measures to improve cleanliness and water quality.
E - 40
38
Possible Future Interventions – Long Term
Given the more significant implications, long term interventions(asdiscussedpreviouslyinthedocument), firstly require further studies that focussed on viability and funding. Following these studies, a regeneration framework can be established for Ryde Esplanade, with consideration of phasing and associated wider impacts, which may need to be managed to facilitate delivery of intervention schemes.
Long term interventions considered suitable for introduction along Ryde Esplanade include:
Establishment of movement strategy to place active travel links at the forefront of regeneration plans, and further promote sustainable transport links to and from Ryde;
Regeneration of Western Gardens to provide destination for public events and congregation throughout the year, including quality hard and soft landscape elements and a landmark bandstand feature to strengthen historic links;
Improved pedestrian and cycle links between the pierhead, Ryde Interchange and the Hover Travel terminal, to support creation of fully integrated transport hub;
Rationalisation of Quay Road Car park to reduce reliance on car usage for accessing Ryde and open up prime development plot in waterfront location;
Relocation of skate park and significant investment to create flagship skate facilities in a secure and sustainable location;
Regeneration of Ryde Arena to provide improved public amenity, with high quality public realm areas to maximise its prime waterfront location;
Investment in Ryde Pavilion building to re-establish it as a landmark Esplanade feature and regeneration of Balcony Bar to introduce high quality leisure facility with outlook across the Solent;
Increase in commercial floor space from Quay Road Car park to Ryde Marina, to support wider regeneration aspirations;
Regeneration of canoe lake area to enhance the setting and facilities at Waterside Pool and create opportunity to establish recreation hub;
Development of public realm strategy to knit the Esplanade together, supported by development of robust and high quality street furniture and planting palettes;
Integration of public art initiatives within regeneration schemes, to strengthen community and cultural links;
Investment in ecologically focussed planting initiatives across the Esplanade, and schemes to support enhancement of identified habitats to mitigate the impact of future development; and
Establishment of a robust and appropriately themed street furniture palette, which can be implemented along the Esplanade and more widely across Ryde for continuity within the public realm;
In addition to consulting with key stakeholder groups and asset owner/occupiers linked to the above assets, it is important that technical specialists are also engaged prior to progressing further studies. Appointment of specialists will assist in the preparation of supportive studies and multi-discipline coordination will allow the early identification of project risks, and thus inform the feasibility process.
Conclusion
Ryde Esplanade has capacity to accommodate immediate and future growth, is in an exceptional setting that offers panoramic views across the Solent, accommodates several historic assets and is fronted by a golden sands beach. The investment in Ryde Interchange is viewed as the first step in enhancing the gateway to the island, with further development plans in motion at Ryde Marina, Hover Travel and Ryde Arena. Passionate community groups are also developing their own strategies and initiatives to implement across Ryde, which all contribute to rejuvenating existing and underutilised assets.
Itis hopedthattheoutcomeofthisreportwillencourage stakeholders and the local authority to build on the momentum established by ongoing enhancement projects, to realise the Esplanades full potential and push for further intervention. It is envisaged that these will initially be in the form of short-term interventions, with further studies required to develop more comprehensive longer-term interventions. Regardless of scale, studies and development should maintain links with key stakeholder groups within Ryde, and focus on harnessing all the positive engagement and contributions made so far by the public, to successfully integrate into the growth aspirations of Ryde Interchange, Hover Travel, Ryde Arena and Ryde Marina, for any proposals that are taken forward.
E - 41
WSP is one of the world’s leading engineering professional services consulting firms. We are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower. We are technical experts and strategic advisors including engineers, technicians, scientists, architects, planners, surveyors and environmental specialists, as well as other design, program and construction management professionals. We design lasting solutions in the Property & Buildings, Transportation & Infrastructure, Environment, Industry, Resources (including Mining and Oil & Gas) and Power & Energy sectors as well as project delivery and strategic consulting services.
wsp.com
E - 42