This course will consider the practical development and principles of alternative concepts and detailing in relation to the rapidly evolving new thinking associated with street design; streets designed for people and communities rather than primarily engineered as thoroughfares for cars.
It is an exciting time to be involved in the design of our infrastructure, but how do we overcome traditional barriers and address the challenges involved in trying to develop what may still appear to some to be radical ideas?
As Bertrand Russell advised: ‘Do not appear to be eccentric in opinion, for every opinion now accepted was once eccentric’.
Aims & Objectives:
On completion of the course delegates will be able to reassess how they think about design and how alternative detailing can be included and accepted to create more interesting and exciting spaces, and so deliver schemes fit for the next 50 years and not a reflection of the last 50 years.
Course Outline:
The course will provide a series of presentations intended to provide a considered and practical insight into alternative ideas and challenges. The basis of each of the presentations will be a series of images providing a thought-provoking narrative. The end of each session will draw on the experiences of the delegates to inform and encourage a group discussion.
Topic 1 - Should Engineer’s think?
What is the impact of including standard designs, in a standard way but in a non-standard setting. Encouraging joined-up thinking and aesthetic aspects of detailing that must be considered, and alternative practical and cost-effective design detailing. The origins of alternative street design and less well-known examples that have challenged conventional highway engineering.
Topic 2 – Road Safety Audits: are they ‘proportionate and viable’
What are the real Road Safety issues that Audits should cover? How do they help the evolvement of good and safe design. The evidence-base and a further insight into some of the interesting safety aspects of MfS2. When and how should Quality Audits be undertaken.
Topic 3 – Review of Shared Space schemes
Review of recent schemes and associated problems and challenges. The five principal recurring challenges to overcome, and how these can be addressed.
Topic 4 – Standards, when do they apply
When do standards apply? Where did they come from and what do they actually mean. When can they be challenged and what are the important first-principles that apply.
Topic 5 - Top ten detailed design mistakes
This topic was first presented 12 years ago. The top ten mistakes are the same now and will be the same top ten in 12 year’s time! An important session to increase awareness of the various traps in developing detailed design!
Topic 6 Conclusions.
...and the future?
Benefits of Attending:
Some comments received on recent courses:
"I’ve just spent an hour with two people who were there and they were still buzzing!"
"I can honestly say that the presentations and content engaged me from the very beginning all the way through to the end."
"I thought the course was very useful for me to improve the quality of my thought process when designing a scheme and asking myself ‘do I really need this’ and ‘what can I do differently to solve this issue."
"Following your excellent presentation I now have the go ahead from the Town Council to commence seeking funding."
"I have had 5 bits of feedback from attendees last week. All said what a productive day, with a terrific thought-provoking talk by the tutor."
Intended For:
All those involved at all levels in designing and delivering infrastructure works, highways engineers, architects, transport planners, and developers, but who would like to consider alternative approaches and their benefits, and be able to challenge perceived issues with more confidence.
Pre-Course Requirements:
Some experience of the planning or engineering of highways, infrastructure or development work, but essentially an open mind and a fundamental desire to explore the potential for the planning and delivery of alternative design.
