Revitalising Southwick Square: a blend of heritage and modernity
Background
Southwick Square, the town’s central hub, along with the adjoining street of the same name, forms the retail heart of Southwick. Originally designed in the 1960s, the square had become outdated. The extensive use of brick walls divided the space into two levels, restricting pedestrians’ movements.
Adur District Council commissioned Project Centre to transform the space into a more accessible and attractive space for everyone.
Process
To regenerate the urban space, we installed two large planters at the eastern and western edges, creating a central flexible area ideal for events and markets. We also introduced a gentle slope to connect the upper and lower levels, eliminating the need for stairs and allowing access from multiple directions.
The unique planter walls combine the traditional flint heritage with a modern black coping made with Caithness stone, adding a distinctive character to Southwick Square.
The design also features playful trails within the planting beds, benches with backrests around the planters, and the addition of new trees and a varied planting palette, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics.
Sustainable paving
A key objective was to maximise sustainability by reusing existing materials. Most of the original concrete blocks were in good condition, therefore 20% of the paving surface was retained and 40% of the existing concrete blocks and setts were reinstalled.
As a result, only 40% of the total paving was made from new materials, significantly reducing waste and environmental impact.
Diverse planting
The planting strategy addressed the overgrown shrubs and herbaceous plants that previously offered limited seasonal interest and ecological value. Prominent trees like the distinctive pines were preserved, while the proposal introduced a diverse and attractive planting palette.
This new arrangement aimed to boost biodiversity, providing year-round interest and aesthetic appeal. The combination of grasses, perennials, and shrubs ensures that the square remains vibrant and engaging throughout the year.
Outcome
Through our well-thought sustainable strategy, we transformed Southwick Square, the heart of Southwick, into a vibrant and accessible hub.
This project seamlessly blends heritage with modern design, creating a dynamic and sustainable space for everyone.
Project Centre has beautifully transformed Southwick Square, combining its heritage with modern design. The space is now significantly more accessible and inviting, and the sustainable approach of reusing material aligns with the council’s environmental goals. The new drought resistant planting and seating have created a vibrant, dynamic area that the community can enjoy for years to come.
The consultation process with council members in creating the design brief could very easily have become protracted and difficult, in jostling different member ideas on behalf of their communities, however the design and technical teams at Project Centre navigated this with great professionalism and delivered a design which met the needs of all. The new public realm works to Southwick Square came in under budget, on time and to a high standard. Excellent!
Fiona Burn, Head of Place, Adur and Worthing Council
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