Design team shares landscape proposals

29 January 2018

Otterpool Park’s design team has released details of its landscape proposals for the garden town.

The Landscape Architecture team at consultancy Arcadis are considering putting forward three primary public open green spaces for Otterpool Park. All three spaces would be linked together, either directly or via green corridors.

The first, currently known as Castle Park, would provide a landscape setting to Westenhanger Castle and be closely linked with the proposed town centre ‘hub’ and Westenhanger rail station. Castle Park would link directly into the proposed River Park – a park that runs alongside the existing East Stour river. These parks would link via a green corridor to the proposed Woodland Park, which would comprise a country park-style open space.

The team is proposing eight key themes that will guide the landscape-led plans:

Ridge

There is an existing ridge that runs across the site which will underpin the landscape proposal.

Character and Identity

Creation of character areas and landmarks, with use of views and local design for a distinct style.

Forest Garden

Referencing the historic forested landscape, a scheme with abundant trees will provide many benefits including foraging opportunities, biodiversity, landscape character, shade, shelter, and improved health and wellbeing.

Embracing Water

The existing watercourses and proposed water features that are attractive and bring benefits such as education, entertainment, biodiversity, play and access to nature.

Connected Beyond

Convenient green links to the wider landscape from within Otterpool Park will allow residents to enjoy the wider Shepway area, as well as providing habitat connectivity.

Productive Landscape

A productive landscape is one that provides a food source for people and wildlife, that can engage the community, reduce food miles and provide access to nature.

Sustainability

The landscape will be designed with the future impact on the environment in mind, and will offer natural solutions.

Management

The landscape proposal will be designed with a long-term view in mind, taking into consideration how it will be cared for and by whom.

Andy Jarrett, spokesperson for Otterpool Park, said:

“The design concepts for Otterpool Park are still being developed and will continue to be for many months, but we’re pleased that some of the exciting ideas being considered by our team are starting to take shape. We’ve said from the beginning that we want Otterpool Park to be a landscape-led community, and the key themes guiding the design of the green space reflect perfectly our wish to encourage healthy lifestyles.”