A revised design proposal of the Quadrangle plaza that will improve the relationship between the 1970s landmark and Imperial Square Gardens has been submitted for planning
Located on the corner of Cheltenham's Imperial Square and Promenade, consent for the complete modernisation and refurbishment of the Quadrangle plaza in Cheltenham was granted in April 2018.
The new plans, if approved, will create a softer edge between the Quadrangle and the Gardens, helping to further open up the space. Retaining the spill-out external seating area for ground-floor restaurants from the original planning application, the proposed design incorporates new landscaping which includes an undulating strip with a wavy retaining wall and scalloped lawn. This will help create more of a connection between the two spaces.
A key part of the revised proposal is the landscaping, with mature sweet gum and pear trees added to match those that are already near the Town Hall. The use of grasses and perennials will also help to soften the appearance of the plaza and, along with the undulating grassed area, create incidental play spaces.
The path between the plaza and Town Hall is retained with both steps and a ramp providing access for the level change, as well as the potential for a route from the Quadrangle atrium to the plaza.
"Following feedback from Cheltenham Borough Council on the original planning application, we've worked with the tree and parks officers to ensure the new design creates a plaza space that the public can enjoy," said Paul Jenkins from SF Planning. "We also consulted the Town Hall, Friends of Imperial Square Gardens and Art in the Park on the revised design. Removable display stands have been included to accommodate the latter.
"The re-imagined design has undoubtedly made improvements to not only how the plaza can be used but created an improved link between the Quadrangle and Imperial Square Gardens. The complete refurbishment of the Quadrangle is a hugely exciting project in Cheltenham and the plaza development is an important part of this."
Work is due to start on the Quadrangle refurbishment by September 2019 with an estimated completion date of August/September 2020.
