Publica | 2013 - 2014
Working across a series of wider area strategies for London neighbourhoods where change is anticipated or planned. Helping to establish the identity and ambition of British Land’s regeneration plans in Paddington and producing design proposals for improved public access. Using a variety of mapping techniques to illustrate the particular characteristics of Paddington, and how new development could fit in. Exploring the possibilities for converting Baker Street from a one-way to a two-way road, where on-site surveys inform a set of public realm proposals.
In January 2014, the Baker Street Quarter Partnership commissioned Publica to undertake a study of Baker Street and its surroundings. The Partnership is currently working with Westminster City Council, Transport for London and other stakeholders to consider the removal of the one-way traffic gyratory system that runs through the area, and the potential introduction of two-way traffic to both Baker Street and Gloucester Place.
Baker Street is a key, connecting route between Oxford Street and Regent’s Park. There is great opportunity to enhance it through tailored public realm upgrades to build identity, quality, better connections for pedestrians and cyclists and more enlivened spaces. Our work considered the district’s streets and spaces holistically. By studying the area’s character and latent assets in detail, we identified sites of opportunity, developing ideas to consider how the gyratory removal project might be optimised to unlock further opportunities. These include the connections between Baker Street and Regent’s Park, Baker Street and Marylebone stations, and Portman Square and Oxford Street.
Publica’s report is now being used to facilitate dialogue about next steps for the improvement of Baker Street and its connected spaces; to build consensus on the improvement of the area’s public realm; and as a guide for the future commissioning of individual projects and spatial upgrades.
