Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley Liveability Consultation Report (September 2006)
CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction to Liveability
2.0 Public Consultation Event details
3.0 Internal External Consultation details
4.0 Public Consultation - Priority Percentage Scores & Chart
5.0 Summary of Internal/External and Public comments
6.0 General Information
7.0 Implementation Cost Estimates
8.0 Landownership
1.0 Introduction to Liveability
The Liveability Programme is a pilot scheme from the former Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (now Department for Communities & Local Government - DCLG) designed to deliver improvements in parks and open spaces across Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council through the support and growing network of Friends Groups, which represent these parks.
It follows on from the Transforming Your Space Project in 2003, which saw funding from the Big Lottery Fund to improve facilities across 11 parks The delivery of the Liveability programme is assisted by a Local Involvement Team, which helps
to co-ordinate the discussions with the Friends Groups. The total sum received by DMBC is £3.4 million, from a total government budget of £89 million spread between 27 local authorities. The overall programme has to be delivered by Sept 2007. The parks are split into 4 phases of which Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley is within the third phase. It is a requirement of the Liveability bid that each participating park has a masterplan to steer the future development of that park. For some of these parks, masterplans already exist, in which cases these have / will be updated. It is important that these masterplans represent the views of the community as a whole, and in order to achieve this public consultations are needed. These have been completed for phase 3 parks and the results listed in this document. Simultaneously, consultations have been carried out within DMBC to obtain officers' professional views on both the initial 'wish-lists' and the draft masterplans. External comments have also been sought from external bodies such as the Police. This report aims to list the findings of both public and internal / external consultations forTurls Hill & Swanbrook Valley, based on the enclosed draft masterplan, and then to produce professional recommendations based on these findings. This report seeks to guide the final masterplans and will be of assistance in prioritising the Liveability funding and subsequent implementation of improvements to the park.
2.0 Public Consultation Event for Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley
Date and Time Held: Wednesday 28th June 2006 at 7.30pm
Venue: High Arcal School (Secondary School)
Method: Public meeting
Catchment Area / Invites sent out to: All Addresses within 200m of park boundary (inc. Schools / Retail / Doctors / Religious Centres etc.) - Resulting in 3508 invites sent out for Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley
Number of completed questionnaires: The number of completed questionnaires, which were completed and returned, was 84 (online questionnaires included).
3.0 Internal/External consultation
Consultations have been carried out within DMBC to obtain professional comments/observations from officers on both the initial 'wish-lists' and the draft masterplans. External comments have also been sought from external bodies such as the Police.
Method
All consultees listed below were asked to comment on any 'wish-list' items, which were relevant to their particular area of expertise. Please see section 6 for summaries of their comments. Comments were sought from officers in the following INTERNAL departments.
* Access
* Archaeology/History (Conservation)
* Arboriculture & TPO
* Environmental Protection (Noise / Contamination)
* Geotechnical Engineers
* Green Care (Maintenance)
* Highways / Traffic
* Legal
* Nature Conservation / Ecology
* Neighbourhood Managers
* Planning Policy
* Planning (Development Control)
* Public Rights of Way
* Youth
* High Arcal School
Comments were sought from the following EXTERNAL consultees.
* Access in Dudley (Disability Discrimination Act 'Audits')
* Local Access Forum
* Police / Community Safety Officers
* Primary Care Trust
* Landowners
Note:
Please note that this process does not constitute any part of a planning application. It has only been used as a way to gain professional opinions and to inform the design process resulting in the development of a masterplan for the park.
4.0 Public Consultation Priority Percentage Scores / Comments
Table below: Percentage scores from questionnaires of the 84 participants.
The revised priority order for the wish-list items below has been taken from the 'strongly agree' items only shown within the ICT consultation report.
1 New / repaired / replaced secure access gates / barriers 79 percent
2 Additional regular maintenance 74 percent
3 New / repaired / replaced fencing 73.8 percent
4 Hurst Hill Wood Conservation Improvements (Non - Dudley MBC land) 66.7 percent
5 Creation and improvement of ponds / wetland areas (Non - Dudley MBC land) 62.7 percent
6 Creation and improvement of ponds / wetland areas 62 percent
7 New / repaired and replaced access barriers (Non - Dudley MBC land) 60.8 percent
8 Park Wardens / Rangers 60.5 percent
9 Upgrade of Turls Hill Road / Bridleway 58.4 percent
10 Additional litter bins / dog bins 57.9 percent
11 New / repaired and replaced fencing (Non - Dudley MBC land) 56.2 percent
12 Path Improvements 51.4 percent
13 Creation of new bridleway down Setton Drive (Non - Dudley MBC land) 49.3 percent
14 Provide a pedestrian crossing point at Tipton Road (Non - Dudley MBC land) 43.7 percent
15 New path surface on land leading from Tenacre Fields towards Tipton Road (Non - Dudley MBC land) 37.9 percent
16 Widen footpath / gully next to High Arcal School (Non - Dudley MBC land) 36.9 percent
17 Removal of old play area / play area surfaces 35.8 percent
18 Incorporate old garage site into park 35.4 percent
19 New Signage 33.8 percent
20 Possible footpath link from High Arcal to Tenacre Fields (Non - Dudley MBC land) 33.8 percent
21 Bridge refurbishment over brook below High Arcal School (Non - Dudley MBC land) 33.3 percent
22 Bridge across from Parkes Hall Pool to Wrens Nest 26.9 percent
Note:
An amended masterplan and associated costs estimates for the main wish list items will be forwarded in due course in time for the final prioritisation meeting in which the above list of priorities will be confirmed and signed off. The amended masterplan will omit items, which have been strongly disputed by the public and/or consultees. Additional items may, however, also be added to the masterplan if they have received sufficient support through public and internal/external consultations. The cost estimates cannot yet be based on detailed designs as we are still at the masterplan stage. This means that the costs can only act as a rough guide as accurate lengths, sizes, shapes and materials used for particular items are not yet known. Further site investigations and feasibility studies will also need to be carried out and there may be unforeseen costs arising from these investigations. Only on completion of the investigations, feasibility studies and detailed design, can more accurate cost estimates be complied. Please note that the actual costs of items will only be known once the detailed design work is completed and tenders are returned - which will be later on in the process.
ADDITIONAL PUBLIC COMMENTS/ITEMS
Please see a list below showing comments made by the public at the consultation event.
Comments taken at Consultation Event
* What about litter picking? Who does this? How is it funded? Could money be used for this?
* When will the Gornal stone wall on the left-hand side of the top end of Turls Hill be repaired - reported several times to council - no-one wants to know. A stitch in time saves nine!!
* Establish method for reporting vandalism (log no.) from police.
Comments taken at Consultation Oval & Tudor Residents Forum
* Agree with removing old play area if replaced with another one.. 20, Perry. 7, Rd.
* Football pitch to be available for youths to get them away from vulnerable windows and parked cars. . 9,.
* As a concerned resident of Green Lane, the proposed path from High Arcal to Ten Acre Lane will possibly innate more trouble in the area.
Anon.
Oval & Tudor Residents Forum.
* The Oval & Tudor Residents Forum would like to work in partnership with groups looking at Ten Acre Field site. They can be contacted through Kim Avantaggiato on 01384 812189.
The previous additional public comments breakdown into the following suggested improvements
Litter picking * (More maintenance) 1 * Already included in original wish list and consultation.
Repairs to Gornal Stone Wall 1
Quick link to Police 1
New play area to replace vandalised one 2
Make football pitches available 1
No to link path between High Arcal & Tenacre 1
Friends Group Interest
A total of 39 people were interested in joining or receiving information about the Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley Friends Group. Names and addresses are held by the Parks Department.
5.0 Consultee Comments & Landscape Architect Recommendations
The following show the:
* Main summary comments received from internal/external consultees,
* Landscape Architects recommendations to take proposals forward to the next stage.
E.g. Site Investigations, detailed design and planning approvals, etc.
List in new Priority order as in section 5.
1. NEW/REPAIRED/REPLACED SECURE ACCESS GATES/BARRIERS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* Steel! Accounting for DDA, motorbike restriction. Prefer 'A frame' construction.
Public Right Of Way -
* 'No barriers must prevent horse riders from using Turls Hill Road from west to east'
* 'Barriers adjoining properties can lead to congregation of youths. A balance is to be drawn on motorcycle prevention and youth congregation.'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Support proposal. Consider wheelchairs'.
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Area is big enough to accommodate motorcycles. Maybe provide a designated area.'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Any fencing or hedgerows near or adjoining the proposed access barriers should be repaired as part the installation. Cost implications per barrier.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
2. ADDITIONAL REGULAR MAINTENANCE
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'to provide adequate financial resources...'
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Could be link to BTCV built as long term sustainable programme.'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Negotiation with SAO & Green Care required.
3. NEW/REPAIRED/REPLACED FENCING
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Why fencing? Must be steel! Concern with damage to tree roots'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Support proposal. Glen Rd / Valley Road entrance to High Arcal park.
* 'To be done in conjunction with skatepark'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
4. (NON DMBC LAND) HURST HILL WOOD CONSERVATION IMPROVEMENTS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Nature Conservation / Ecology -
* 'Protected Species Survey Required for works here - Bats, Badgers, etc.'
Contamination -
* 'Former quarry - possible contamination'.
Policy -
* 'Protected Species Survey Required for works here'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Ideal site for woodland habitat creation.
* Site not currently in ownership of Dudley MBC.
* Possible high costs associated with woodland improvements to this particular item. Steep embankment sides, possible dangerous etc. Costs dependant on detailed investigations.
* TPO and Arboriculture Officer's liaison required.
* Refer to TH&SV Middlemarch Management Plan.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
5. (NON DMBC LAND) CREATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF PONDS / WETLAND AREAS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Nature Conservation / Ecology -
* 'Protected Species Survey Required for works here - Bats, Badgers, etc.'
Contamination -
* 'Former sewage works with possible contamination'
Policy -
* 'Protected Species Survey Required for works here'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Target of fly tippers. Residents would like to see it cleared. Residents keen to become involved. Survey recently completed.'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* This item will require a detailed Feasibility Study to establish an accurate cost/quote for carrying out the wetland area works.
* A 'Protected Species Study' will be required before any work can be carried out.
* Liaison with the Environment Agency (EA) and Severn Trent will required before carrying out work. Licenses may be required for works.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Liaison with Landowner required.
* Health & Safety issues apparent with this item.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
* Suggest Environmental Consultant carry out Feasibility Study containing and Ecological Survey and accurate cost estimates for work. The consultant will also carry out all necessary liaisons with the EA and other bodies.
6. CREATE AND IMPROVE WETLAND AREAS / PONDS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Maintenance difficulties. Health & Safety issues. Fencing, Life buoys, signage, etc. Consult drainage engineers.
Contamination -
* 'Former sewage works with possible contamination'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* This item will require a detailed Feasibility Study to establish an accurate cost/quote for carrying out the wetland area works.
* A 'Protected Species Study' will be required before any work can be carried out.
* Liaison with the Environment Agency (EA) and Severn Trent will required before carrying out work. Licenses may be required for works.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Parts of site not currently in ownership of Dudley MBC. Liaison with Landowner required.
* Health & Safety issues apparent with this item.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
* Suggest Environmental Consultant carry out Feasibility Study containing and Ecological Survey and accurate cost estimates for work. The consultant will also carry out all necessary liaisons with the EA and other bodies.
7. (NON DMBC LAND) NEW/REPAIRED AND REPLACED ACCESS BARRIERS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner required.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Any fencing or hedgerows near or adjoining the proposed access barriers should be repaired as part the installation. Cost implications per barrier.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
8. PARK WARDENS / RANGERS
Consultee:
Item added following the Internal/External Consultation. No consultee comments available.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Parks Department (Sally Orton) to advise in due course.
9. UPGRADE OF TURLS HILL ROAD/BRIDLEWAY
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* Consult Traffic. Will encourage vehicles. Who'll maintain? Must consult Geologist / Archaeologist.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care / Street Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
10. ADDITIONAL LITTER / DOG BINS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Resisting additional bins. Provision would require vehicle access. No current provision at TH&SV.
Standard spec bins required.'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'This has been requested by residents'
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Curriculum programmes. Local schools to utilise'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* Types and location to be agreed with Green Care. (Must consider access for Green Care for emptying). Also see annual maintenance costs.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
11. (NON DMBC LAND) NEW/REPAIRED AND REPLACED FENCING
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner required.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* Geotechnical Investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
12. PATH IMPROVEMENTS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'No loose stone surfacing. Tarmac preferred! Who'll maintain? Must be wide enough for ride on sweeper.'
Contamination -
* 'Former sewage works with possible contamination'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'These are well used by students'
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Possibly provide a walking route'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner on part of the site required.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* LA preference of compacted stone (basalt) path material rather than tarmac for this rural area.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
13. (NON DMBC LAND) CREATION OF A NEW BRIDLEWAY DOWN SETTON DRIVE
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Public Rights Of Way -
* 'Bridleway parallel to Setton Drive comes out on Tipton Road where there will be a conflict and safety issues.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner required.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* LA preference of compacted stone (basalt) path material rather than tarmac for this rural area.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
14. (NON DMBC LAND) PROVIDE A PEDESTRIAN CROSSING POINT/SUBWAY AT TIPTON ROAD
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Public Rights Of Way -
* 'Subway not supported - Community Safety'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with adjoining Landowners required.
* Traffic Department have not commented on this item through the internal consultation. Direct work with Traffic & Road Safety Engineers would be essential for this item to be achieved.
* Subway proposal not supported.
15. (NON DMBC LAND) NEW PATH SURFACE ON LAND LEADING FROM TENACRE FIELDS TOWARDS TIPTON ROAD
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner required.
* Work would have to be carried out directly on top of and within the way leave of the gas pipeline running through this part of the borough. Cost implications.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Surface material to be discussed.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
16. (NON DMBC LAND) WIDEN FOOTPATH/GULLY NEXT TO HIGH ARCAL SCHOOL
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Public Rights Of Way -
* 'This is to be encouraged to enhance "Safer Routes To School".
Local Access Forum -
* 'Would like to show/create link between High Arcal & Tenacre Lane through a new path through school to west of playing fields'.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner/School required.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Tarmac preference for surface material.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
17. REMOVAL OF OLD PLAY AREA/ PLAY AREA SURFACES
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Support removal. Contact Paul Mason'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Consider a possible future use other than complete removal. E.g. reinstate new play equipment.'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* LA preference for replacement facility in this area. Possibly a Ball court or more durable play equipment.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care / Street Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
18. INCORPORATE OLD GARAGE SITE INTO PARK
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Consult housing. No further planting required due to visibility Anti-social behaviour issues with existing planting'
Contamination -
* 'Former garages may have evidence of contaminated substances. Appropriate investigations
required'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'This area is owned by housing and designated for disposal'.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care / Street Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Possible location for formal/alternative entrance to park.
* Possible low level planting to restrict access but retain visibility.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
19. NEW SIGNAGE
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Concern over maintenance. Spec details required'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Good idea'
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Way mark walking routes'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care / Street Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
20. (NON DMBC LAND) POSSIBLE FOOTPATH LINK FROM HIGH ARCAL TO TENACRE FIELDS
Consultee:
Item added following the Internal/External Consultation. No consultee comments available.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner/School required.
* Work would have to be carried out directly on top of and within the way leave of the gas pipeline running through this part of the borough. Cost implications.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Police to be further consulted regarding access to back of properties.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Surface material to be discussed.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
21. (NON DMBC LAND) BRIDGE REFURBISHMENT OVER BROOK BELOW HIGH ARCAL SCHOOL
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Residents highlighted as potentially dangerous.'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner required. Severn Trent Water.
* Work would have to be carried out directly within the way leave of the gas pipeline running through this part of the borough. Cost implications.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Installation of handrails/barrier as short term measure.
22. BRIDGE ACROSS FROM PARKES HALL POOL TO WRENS NEST
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Consult structures. Who'll maintain'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Green Care, Engineers, Traffic, etc. required.
* Very large engineering project. Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Installation of handrails/barrier as short term measure.
Note:
All of the above proposals will be subject to detailed design and planning approvals in due course. These will be carried out by a Landscape Architect responsible for this project.
ADDITIONAL INTERNAL/EXTERNAL CONSULTEE COMMENTS/ITEMS
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* Check landownership prior to development and that they have been consulted.'
* Green care only currently maintain High Arcal and a small area of Tenacre Lane. More maintenance will have major impact on budgets.
* Ensure permission with pipeline companies.
* Consider financial impact on maintaining others land. Agreements / Rights of access...
Access in Dudley -
* All final new designs should also take into consideration requirements for disabled access.
Local Access Forum (meeting) -
* DLAF queried whether it could be upgraded to a bridleway, which could also be used by cyclists. DR pointed out that all improvements, particularly on land owned by private landowners would be subject firstly, to negotiation and secondly to being selected from the prioritisation list, following public consultation, to being implemented with Liveability funding.
* Proposed circular footpath link between Turls Hill and Swanbrook Valley. DLAF were very much in favour of improving access if a route could be secured along the boundary of the school's playing fields, instead of the circuitous route around Glen road and the surrounding residential area. DR to investigate whether this would be possible.
* Widening of school access lane. DLAF agreed that this would be beneficial to users and would open up the
lane and make it feel safer.
* Turls Hill Road - proposed installation of a 3M wide barrier at the east end to prevent motorbike access.
DLAF queried whether this could be upgraded to a bridleway and whether a specific area could be set aside
for motorbike use.
Archaeology/History -
* Turls Hill and Swanbrook Valley were part of three ancient medieval estates: -Turls Hill, Flaxhall and Parks
Hall.
Turls Hill was originally in the township of Ettingshall but later incorporated into Woodsetton. As well as being farm holders the Terhull's family were recorded as being woodsmen of the Baron's of Dudley in the 13th century. In the post-medieval period the Persehouses took over the holding. The field patterns show a mixed farming with mostly pasture and a little arable. The house was demolished in the 20th century. Hurst Hill which is considered to be part of Turls Hill in this project was one of the earliest lime digging sites in the area, being first recorded in the early 16th century.
Flaxhalls
* The Flaxhalls was a medieval holding, which in the post-medieval period the Hodgetts family were inhabitants of. They were Roman Catholics and after the Reformation Flaxhall House was the secret home of the bones of the Anglo-Saxon Saint Chad from Litchfield Cathedral. The bones are now beneath the High Alter in the Birmingham Roman Catholic Cathedral. Flaxhalls was renamed High Arcal in the 18th century. The land around was the normal mixed farming of the area. The house was demolished in the mid 20th century and the area was taken over by High Arcal School.
Parks Hall
* Parks Hall was at the north-western entrance to the Old Park and the family that lived there were probably the original park keepers. The variety of names that the Persehouse/Parks family used suggest that as their fortunes increased so did the letters they used in their names! By the late medieval period Parks Hall the estate was just one of the family properties. The land was mostly meadow land in the area of the 'Swan' brook. The Persehouses left the house in the 18th century and it was demolished on the rebuilding of a reservoir in the 19th century. A Parks Hall Farm was built further up the lane, which today is submerged in housing.
* Most of the improvements will have little effect on the land, with the exception of the pond and wetland creation and the 'improvements' to Hurst Hill Wood. In the former case the streams need recording before the work is done and in the latter more information is needed about what exactly is being done. The two quarry's in Hurst Hill Wood need very careful handling.
Environmental Health (Contamination) -
* Testing is advised for excavated material and suitability of imported material, more specific advice to be given as wider discussions develop.
Public Rights of Way -
* 'What status will the path off Gorge Road have. Highway adoption to be discussed'
* 'Bridleway circuit to be given consideration in the Turls Hill Area'
* 'Gateway improvements adjacent to school recommended'
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Large site lending itself to a large walking programme and other types of activities that other areas of Dudley could not accommodate '
Youth Leader -
* 'Would like use to contact Dudley youth council (Jody Prichard) - LIP'
* 'Would like park wardens / rangers'
6.0 General Information
Total Returns - 84
Gender
Male 53.6 percent
Female 44.0 percent
None Replies 2.4 percent
Age Groups
5 - 14 0 percent
15 - 24 0 percent
25 - 34 1.2 percent
35 - 44 14.3 percent
45 - 54 20.2 percent
55 - 64 27.4 percent
65+ 34.5 percent
None Replies 2.4 percent
Disabled
Yes 3.6 percent
No 89.3 percent
None Replies 7.1 percent
How often do you visit the park?
More than once a day 7.1 percent
Daily 25.0 percent
Weekly 28.6 percent
Monthly 16.7 percent
Yearly 8.3 percent
Never 8.3 percent
None Replies 6 percent
How do you travel to the park?
Walk 69 percent
Public Transport 1.2 percent
Cycle 2.4 percent
Car 3.6 percent
Other 1.2 percent
None Replies 22.6 percent
Why do you visit the park? (Multi Choice)
Walking/running/sport 42.9 %
Nature/wildlife interest 28.6 %
Walking the Dog 21.4 %
Play area / MUGA 17.9 %
Relaxation/scenery 27.4 %
Thoroughfare to work/school 7.1 %
Other 10.7 %
How many children do you have under 16?
0 61.9 %
1 10.7 %
2 7.1 %
3 1.2 %
4 0 %
5 0 %
6+ 0 %
None Replies 19.1 %
7.0 Implementation Cost Estimates (August 2006)
The following list provides a guide cost estimate only for the main elements for improvements within the park. It is not
intended to be a definitive list. It should be appreciated that most items will require more research & detailed
design before more accurate costings can be ascertained. It is worth considering these as minimum costs, which
could rise substantially according to higher specifications and additional requested items.
The same cost estimates have been used for 'common items' within each park, but each park will have its own
peculiarities, such as level differences, access problems, contaminated land etc. which have not been taken into
consideration at this stage. Actual costs will only be known when a tendered price is eventually submitted based on
detailed designs. It is hoped however, the costings listed below will provide a reasonable guide to assist decisions in
the prioritisation of items and to set a budget for that item.
Please also note that other constraints such as the need for planning permission, major geotechnical problems or
archaeological substructures may prevent the requested item from being implemented.
1 NEW / REPAIRED GATES & ACCESS BARRIERS (10Nr) - £8,000 - £10,000 (+/-)
2 ADDITIONAL REGULAR MAINTENANCE - To Be Confirmed
3 NEW / REPAIRED FENCING £12,000 - £14,000 (+/-)
4 (NON DMBC) HURST HILL WOOD IMPROVEMENTS - To Be Confirmed
5 (NON DMBC) CREATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF PONDS / WETLAND £40,000 - £44,000 (+/-)
6 CREATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF PONDS AND WETLAND AREAS - To Be Confirmed
7 (NON DMBC) NEW / REPAIRED GATES & ACCESS BARRIERS (5Nr) £2,000 - £3,000 (+/-)
8 PARK WARDEN / RANGER - To Be Confirmed
9 UPGRADE OF TURLS HILL BRIDLEWAY £24,000 - £27,000 (+/-)
10 ADDITIONAL LITTER BINS / DOG BINS £2,000 - £3,000 (+/-)
11 (NON DMBC) NEW / REPAIRED FENCING £6,000 - £8,000 (+/-)
12 PATH IMPROVEMENTS £75,000 - £83,000 (+/-)
13 (NON DMBC) NEW BRIDLEWAY DOWN SETTON DRIVE £15,000 - £17,000 (+/-)
14 (NON DMBC) PEDESTRIAN CROSSING POINT AT TIPTON ROAD - To Be Confirmed
15 (NON DMBC) NEW PATH FROM TENACRE FIELDS TO TIPTON ROAD £40,000 min (+/-)
16 (NON DMBC) WIDEN SCHOOL FOOTPATH / GULLY £30,000 - £37,000 (+/-)
17 REMOVAL OF 2Nr OLD PLAY AREAS £10,000 - £11,000 (+/-)
18 INCORPORATE OLD GARAGE SITE INTO PARK £5,000 - £6,000 (+/-)
19 NEW SIGNAGE £4,000 - £5,000 (+/-)
20 (NON DMBC) POSSIBLE FOOTPATH LINK FROM HIGH ARCAL TO TENACRE FIELDS £45,000 - £51,000 (+/-)
21 (NON DMBC) BRIDGE REFURBISHMENT OVER SWANBROOK BROOK - To Be Confirmed
22 BRIDGE ACROSS PARKES HALL POOL TO WRENS NEST - To Be Confirmed
NOTE:
Should all the above items be completed or be unaffordable with the allocated Liveability money it is proposed that items highlighted in the Access Audits should be considered as alternative wish list items for implementation.
8.0 Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley Landownership
A large proportion of the land show on the Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley (TH & SV) masterplan is privately owned. As part of the public consultation a letter (see appendix) was sent to the respective private landowners along with a copy of the masterplan in order for them to make comments. This was send directly from the Parks Department. As yet we have not received any responses from these landowners.
The largest landowners are Severn Trent and AJ Mucklows who own large tracts of land at TH & SV. These landowners have also not responded to the letter. The masterplan was also sent to High Arcal School for comment as part of the extensive internal consultation. However despite a number of additional telephone calls we have not yet managed to successfully liase with the appropriate member of staff about these proposals. However it is understood that the TH&SV Friends Group already have a strong link with this School.
Unfortunately without permission of specific landowners, works cannot be undertaken. If it is deemed necessary to carryout works on non-DMBC land we will again contact the appropriate landowners.
1.0 Introduction to Liveability
2.0 Public Consultation Event details
3.0 Internal External Consultation details
4.0 Public Consultation - Priority Percentage Scores & Chart
5.0 Summary of Internal/External and Public comments
6.0 General Information
7.0 Implementation Cost Estimates
8.0 Landownership
1.0 Introduction to Liveability
The Liveability Programme is a pilot scheme from the former Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (now Department for Communities & Local Government - DCLG) designed to deliver improvements in parks and open spaces across Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council through the support and growing network of Friends Groups, which represent these parks.
It follows on from the Transforming Your Space Project in 2003, which saw funding from the Big Lottery Fund to improve facilities across 11 parks The delivery of the Liveability programme is assisted by a Local Involvement Team, which helps
to co-ordinate the discussions with the Friends Groups. The total sum received by DMBC is £3.4 million, from a total government budget of £89 million spread between 27 local authorities. The overall programme has to be delivered by Sept 2007. The parks are split into 4 phases of which Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley is within the third phase. It is a requirement of the Liveability bid that each participating park has a masterplan to steer the future development of that park. For some of these parks, masterplans already exist, in which cases these have / will be updated. It is important that these masterplans represent the views of the community as a whole, and in order to achieve this public consultations are needed. These have been completed for phase 3 parks and the results listed in this document. Simultaneously, consultations have been carried out within DMBC to obtain officers' professional views on both the initial 'wish-lists' and the draft masterplans. External comments have also been sought from external bodies such as the Police. This report aims to list the findings of both public and internal / external consultations forTurls Hill & Swanbrook Valley, based on the enclosed draft masterplan, and then to produce professional recommendations based on these findings. This report seeks to guide the final masterplans and will be of assistance in prioritising the Liveability funding and subsequent implementation of improvements to the park.
2.0 Public Consultation Event for Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley
Date and Time Held: Wednesday 28th June 2006 at 7.30pm
Venue: High Arcal School (Secondary School)
Method: Public meeting
Catchment Area / Invites sent out to: All Addresses within 200m of park boundary (inc. Schools / Retail / Doctors / Religious Centres etc.) - Resulting in 3508 invites sent out for Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley
Number of completed questionnaires: The number of completed questionnaires, which were completed and returned, was 84 (online questionnaires included).
3.0 Internal/External consultation
Consultations have been carried out within DMBC to obtain professional comments/observations from officers on both the initial 'wish-lists' and the draft masterplans. External comments have also been sought from external bodies such as the Police.
Method
All consultees listed below were asked to comment on any 'wish-list' items, which were relevant to their particular area of expertise. Please see section 6 for summaries of their comments. Comments were sought from officers in the following INTERNAL departments.
* Access
* Archaeology/History (Conservation)
* Arboriculture & TPO
* Environmental Protection (Noise / Contamination)
* Geotechnical Engineers
* Green Care (Maintenance)
* Highways / Traffic
* Legal
* Nature Conservation / Ecology
* Neighbourhood Managers
* Planning Policy
* Planning (Development Control)
* Public Rights of Way
* Youth
* High Arcal School
Comments were sought from the following EXTERNAL consultees.
* Access in Dudley (Disability Discrimination Act 'Audits')
* Local Access Forum
* Police / Community Safety Officers
* Primary Care Trust
* Landowners
Note:
Please note that this process does not constitute any part of a planning application. It has only been used as a way to gain professional opinions and to inform the design process resulting in the development of a masterplan for the park.
4.0 Public Consultation Priority Percentage Scores / Comments
Table below: Percentage scores from questionnaires of the 84 participants.
The revised priority order for the wish-list items below has been taken from the 'strongly agree' items only shown within the ICT consultation report.
1 New / repaired / replaced secure access gates / barriers 79 percent
2 Additional regular maintenance 74 percent
3 New / repaired / replaced fencing 73.8 percent
4 Hurst Hill Wood Conservation Improvements (Non - Dudley MBC land) 66.7 percent
5 Creation and improvement of ponds / wetland areas (Non - Dudley MBC land) 62.7 percent
6 Creation and improvement of ponds / wetland areas 62 percent
7 New / repaired and replaced access barriers (Non - Dudley MBC land) 60.8 percent
8 Park Wardens / Rangers 60.5 percent
9 Upgrade of Turls Hill Road / Bridleway 58.4 percent
10 Additional litter bins / dog bins 57.9 percent
11 New / repaired and replaced fencing (Non - Dudley MBC land) 56.2 percent
12 Path Improvements 51.4 percent
13 Creation of new bridleway down Setton Drive (Non - Dudley MBC land) 49.3 percent
14 Provide a pedestrian crossing point at Tipton Road (Non - Dudley MBC land) 43.7 percent
15 New path surface on land leading from Tenacre Fields towards Tipton Road (Non - Dudley MBC land) 37.9 percent
16 Widen footpath / gully next to High Arcal School (Non - Dudley MBC land) 36.9 percent
17 Removal of old play area / play area surfaces 35.8 percent
18 Incorporate old garage site into park 35.4 percent
19 New Signage 33.8 percent
20 Possible footpath link from High Arcal to Tenacre Fields (Non - Dudley MBC land) 33.8 percent
21 Bridge refurbishment over brook below High Arcal School (Non - Dudley MBC land) 33.3 percent
22 Bridge across from Parkes Hall Pool to Wrens Nest 26.9 percent
Note:
An amended masterplan and associated costs estimates for the main wish list items will be forwarded in due course in time for the final prioritisation meeting in which the above list of priorities will be confirmed and signed off. The amended masterplan will omit items, which have been strongly disputed by the public and/or consultees. Additional items may, however, also be added to the masterplan if they have received sufficient support through public and internal/external consultations. The cost estimates cannot yet be based on detailed designs as we are still at the masterplan stage. This means that the costs can only act as a rough guide as accurate lengths, sizes, shapes and materials used for particular items are not yet known. Further site investigations and feasibility studies will also need to be carried out and there may be unforeseen costs arising from these investigations. Only on completion of the investigations, feasibility studies and detailed design, can more accurate cost estimates be complied. Please note that the actual costs of items will only be known once the detailed design work is completed and tenders are returned - which will be later on in the process.
ADDITIONAL PUBLIC COMMENTS/ITEMS
Please see a list below showing comments made by the public at the consultation event.
Comments taken at Consultation Event
* What about litter picking? Who does this? How is it funded? Could money be used for this?
* When will the Gornal stone wall on the left-hand side of the top end of Turls Hill be repaired - reported several times to council - no-one wants to know. A stitch in time saves nine!!
* Establish method for reporting vandalism (log no.) from police.
Comments taken at Consultation Oval & Tudor Residents Forum
* Agree with removing old play area if replaced with another one.. 20, Perry. 7, Rd.
* Football pitch to be available for youths to get them away from vulnerable windows and parked cars. . 9,.
* As a concerned resident of Green Lane, the proposed path from High Arcal to Ten Acre Lane will possibly innate more trouble in the area.
Anon.
Oval & Tudor Residents Forum.
* The Oval & Tudor Residents Forum would like to work in partnership with groups looking at Ten Acre Field site. They can be contacted through Kim Avantaggiato on 01384 812189.
The previous additional public comments breakdown into the following suggested improvements
Litter picking * (More maintenance) 1 * Already included in original wish list and consultation.
Repairs to Gornal Stone Wall 1
Quick link to Police 1
New play area to replace vandalised one 2
Make football pitches available 1
No to link path between High Arcal & Tenacre 1
Friends Group Interest
A total of 39 people were interested in joining or receiving information about the Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley Friends Group. Names and addresses are held by the Parks Department.
5.0 Consultee Comments & Landscape Architect Recommendations
The following show the:
* Main summary comments received from internal/external consultees,
* Landscape Architects recommendations to take proposals forward to the next stage.
E.g. Site Investigations, detailed design and planning approvals, etc.
List in new Priority order as in section 5.
1. NEW/REPAIRED/REPLACED SECURE ACCESS GATES/BARRIERS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* Steel! Accounting for DDA, motorbike restriction. Prefer 'A frame' construction.
Public Right Of Way -
* 'No barriers must prevent horse riders from using Turls Hill Road from west to east'
* 'Barriers adjoining properties can lead to congregation of youths. A balance is to be drawn on motorcycle prevention and youth congregation.'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Support proposal. Consider wheelchairs'.
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Area is big enough to accommodate motorcycles. Maybe provide a designated area.'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Any fencing or hedgerows near or adjoining the proposed access barriers should be repaired as part the installation. Cost implications per barrier.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
2. ADDITIONAL REGULAR MAINTENANCE
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'to provide adequate financial resources...'
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Could be link to BTCV built as long term sustainable programme.'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Negotiation with SAO & Green Care required.
3. NEW/REPAIRED/REPLACED FENCING
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Why fencing? Must be steel! Concern with damage to tree roots'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Support proposal. Glen Rd / Valley Road entrance to High Arcal park.
* 'To be done in conjunction with skatepark'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
4. (NON DMBC LAND) HURST HILL WOOD CONSERVATION IMPROVEMENTS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Nature Conservation / Ecology -
* 'Protected Species Survey Required for works here - Bats, Badgers, etc.'
Contamination -
* 'Former quarry - possible contamination'.
Policy -
* 'Protected Species Survey Required for works here'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Ideal site for woodland habitat creation.
* Site not currently in ownership of Dudley MBC.
* Possible high costs associated with woodland improvements to this particular item. Steep embankment sides, possible dangerous etc. Costs dependant on detailed investigations.
* TPO and Arboriculture Officer's liaison required.
* Refer to TH&SV Middlemarch Management Plan.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
5. (NON DMBC LAND) CREATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF PONDS / WETLAND AREAS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Nature Conservation / Ecology -
* 'Protected Species Survey Required for works here - Bats, Badgers, etc.'
Contamination -
* 'Former sewage works with possible contamination'
Policy -
* 'Protected Species Survey Required for works here'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Target of fly tippers. Residents would like to see it cleared. Residents keen to become involved. Survey recently completed.'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* This item will require a detailed Feasibility Study to establish an accurate cost/quote for carrying out the wetland area works.
* A 'Protected Species Study' will be required before any work can be carried out.
* Liaison with the Environment Agency (EA) and Severn Trent will required before carrying out work. Licenses may be required for works.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Liaison with Landowner required.
* Health & Safety issues apparent with this item.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
* Suggest Environmental Consultant carry out Feasibility Study containing and Ecological Survey and accurate cost estimates for work. The consultant will also carry out all necessary liaisons with the EA and other bodies.
6. CREATE AND IMPROVE WETLAND AREAS / PONDS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Maintenance difficulties. Health & Safety issues. Fencing, Life buoys, signage, etc. Consult drainage engineers.
Contamination -
* 'Former sewage works with possible contamination'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* This item will require a detailed Feasibility Study to establish an accurate cost/quote for carrying out the wetland area works.
* A 'Protected Species Study' will be required before any work can be carried out.
* Liaison with the Environment Agency (EA) and Severn Trent will required before carrying out work. Licenses may be required for works.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Parts of site not currently in ownership of Dudley MBC. Liaison with Landowner required.
* Health & Safety issues apparent with this item.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
* Suggest Environmental Consultant carry out Feasibility Study containing and Ecological Survey and accurate cost estimates for work. The consultant will also carry out all necessary liaisons with the EA and other bodies.
7. (NON DMBC LAND) NEW/REPAIRED AND REPLACED ACCESS BARRIERS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner required.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Any fencing or hedgerows near or adjoining the proposed access barriers should be repaired as part the installation. Cost implications per barrier.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
8. PARK WARDENS / RANGERS
Consultee:
Item added following the Internal/External Consultation. No consultee comments available.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Parks Department (Sally Orton) to advise in due course.
9. UPGRADE OF TURLS HILL ROAD/BRIDLEWAY
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* Consult Traffic. Will encourage vehicles. Who'll maintain? Must consult Geologist / Archaeologist.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care / Street Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
10. ADDITIONAL LITTER / DOG BINS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Resisting additional bins. Provision would require vehicle access. No current provision at TH&SV.
Standard spec bins required.'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'This has been requested by residents'
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Curriculum programmes. Local schools to utilise'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* Types and location to be agreed with Green Care. (Must consider access for Green Care for emptying). Also see annual maintenance costs.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
11. (NON DMBC LAND) NEW/REPAIRED AND REPLACED FENCING
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner required.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* Geotechnical Investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
12. PATH IMPROVEMENTS
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'No loose stone surfacing. Tarmac preferred! Who'll maintain? Must be wide enough for ride on sweeper.'
Contamination -
* 'Former sewage works with possible contamination'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'These are well used by students'
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Possibly provide a walking route'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner on part of the site required.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* LA preference of compacted stone (basalt) path material rather than tarmac for this rural area.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
13. (NON DMBC LAND) CREATION OF A NEW BRIDLEWAY DOWN SETTON DRIVE
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Public Rights Of Way -
* 'Bridleway parallel to Setton Drive comes out on Tipton Road where there will be a conflict and safety issues.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner required.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* LA preference of compacted stone (basalt) path material rather than tarmac for this rural area.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
14. (NON DMBC LAND) PROVIDE A PEDESTRIAN CROSSING POINT/SUBWAY AT TIPTON ROAD
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Public Rights Of Way -
* 'Subway not supported - Community Safety'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with adjoining Landowners required.
* Traffic Department have not commented on this item through the internal consultation. Direct work with Traffic & Road Safety Engineers would be essential for this item to be achieved.
* Subway proposal not supported.
15. (NON DMBC LAND) NEW PATH SURFACE ON LAND LEADING FROM TENACRE FIELDS TOWARDS TIPTON ROAD
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner required.
* Work would have to be carried out directly on top of and within the way leave of the gas pipeline running through this part of the borough. Cost implications.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Surface material to be discussed.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigations possibly required. Cost implication.
16. (NON DMBC LAND) WIDEN FOOTPATH/GULLY NEXT TO HIGH ARCAL SCHOOL
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Public Rights Of Way -
* 'This is to be encouraged to enhance "Safer Routes To School".
Local Access Forum -
* 'Would like to show/create link between High Arcal & Tenacre Lane through a new path through school to west of playing fields'.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner/School required.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Tarmac preference for surface material.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
17. REMOVAL OF OLD PLAY AREA/ PLAY AREA SURFACES
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Support removal. Contact Paul Mason'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Consider a possible future use other than complete removal. E.g. reinstate new play equipment.'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* LA preference for replacement facility in this area. Possibly a Ball court or more durable play equipment.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care / Street Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
18. INCORPORATE OLD GARAGE SITE INTO PARK
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Consult housing. No further planting required due to visibility Anti-social behaviour issues with existing planting'
Contamination -
* 'Former garages may have evidence of contaminated substances. Appropriate investigations
required'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'This area is owned by housing and designated for disposal'.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care / Street Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Possible location for formal/alternative entrance to park.
* Possible low level planting to restrict access but retain visibility.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
19. NEW SIGNAGE
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Concern over maintenance. Spec details required'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Good idea'
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Way mark walking routes'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care / Street Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Geotechnical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
20. (NON DMBC LAND) POSSIBLE FOOTPATH LINK FROM HIGH ARCAL TO TENACRE FIELDS
Consultee:
Item added following the Internal/External Consultation. No consultee comments available.
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner/School required.
* Work would have to be carried out directly on top of and within the way leave of the gas pipeline running through this part of the borough. Cost implications.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Police to be further consulted regarding access to back of properties.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Surface material to be discussed.
* Geotechnical & Topographical investigation possibly required. Cost implication.
21. (NON DMBC LAND) BRIDGE REFURBISHMENT OVER BROOK BELOW HIGH ARCAL SCHOOL
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Who'll maintain'
Neighbourhood Manager -
* 'Residents highlighted as potentially dangerous.'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Liaison with Landowner required. Severn Trent Water.
* Work would have to be carried out directly within the way leave of the gas pipeline running through this part of the borough. Cost implications.
* Detailed liaison with Friends Group and Green Care required.
* Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Installation of handrails/barrier as short term measure.
22. BRIDGE ACROSS FROM PARKES HALL POOL TO WRENS NEST
Consultee:
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* 'Consult structures. Who'll maintain'
Landscape Architects Recommendations:
* Detailed liaison with Green Care, Engineers, Traffic, etc. required.
* Very large engineering project. Costs dependant on detailed investigations and/or specific requirements.
* This item must take into consideration requirements for disabled users.
* Installation of handrails/barrier as short term measure.
Note:
All of the above proposals will be subject to detailed design and planning approvals in due course. These will be carried out by a Landscape Architect responsible for this project.
ADDITIONAL INTERNAL/EXTERNAL CONSULTEE COMMENTS/ITEMS
Green Care (Maintenance) -
* Check landownership prior to development and that they have been consulted.'
* Green care only currently maintain High Arcal and a small area of Tenacre Lane. More maintenance will have major impact on budgets.
* Ensure permission with pipeline companies.
* Consider financial impact on maintaining others land. Agreements / Rights of access...
Access in Dudley -
* All final new designs should also take into consideration requirements for disabled access.
Local Access Forum (meeting) -
* DLAF queried whether it could be upgraded to a bridleway, which could also be used by cyclists. DR pointed out that all improvements, particularly on land owned by private landowners would be subject firstly, to negotiation and secondly to being selected from the prioritisation list, following public consultation, to being implemented with Liveability funding.
* Proposed circular footpath link between Turls Hill and Swanbrook Valley. DLAF were very much in favour of improving access if a route could be secured along the boundary of the school's playing fields, instead of the circuitous route around Glen road and the surrounding residential area. DR to investigate whether this would be possible.
* Widening of school access lane. DLAF agreed that this would be beneficial to users and would open up the
lane and make it feel safer.
* Turls Hill Road - proposed installation of a 3M wide barrier at the east end to prevent motorbike access.
DLAF queried whether this could be upgraded to a bridleway and whether a specific area could be set aside
for motorbike use.
Archaeology/History -
* Turls Hill and Swanbrook Valley were part of three ancient medieval estates: -Turls Hill, Flaxhall and Parks
Hall.
Turls Hill was originally in the township of Ettingshall but later incorporated into Woodsetton. As well as being farm holders the Terhull's family were recorded as being woodsmen of the Baron's of Dudley in the 13th century. In the post-medieval period the Persehouses took over the holding. The field patterns show a mixed farming with mostly pasture and a little arable. The house was demolished in the 20th century. Hurst Hill which is considered to be part of Turls Hill in this project was one of the earliest lime digging sites in the area, being first recorded in the early 16th century.
Flaxhalls
* The Flaxhalls was a medieval holding, which in the post-medieval period the Hodgetts family were inhabitants of. They were Roman Catholics and after the Reformation Flaxhall House was the secret home of the bones of the Anglo-Saxon Saint Chad from Litchfield Cathedral. The bones are now beneath the High Alter in the Birmingham Roman Catholic Cathedral. Flaxhalls was renamed High Arcal in the 18th century. The land around was the normal mixed farming of the area. The house was demolished in the mid 20th century and the area was taken over by High Arcal School.
Parks Hall
* Parks Hall was at the north-western entrance to the Old Park and the family that lived there were probably the original park keepers. The variety of names that the Persehouse/Parks family used suggest that as their fortunes increased so did the letters they used in their names! By the late medieval period Parks Hall the estate was just one of the family properties. The land was mostly meadow land in the area of the 'Swan' brook. The Persehouses left the house in the 18th century and it was demolished on the rebuilding of a reservoir in the 19th century. A Parks Hall Farm was built further up the lane, which today is submerged in housing.
* Most of the improvements will have little effect on the land, with the exception of the pond and wetland creation and the 'improvements' to Hurst Hill Wood. In the former case the streams need recording before the work is done and in the latter more information is needed about what exactly is being done. The two quarry's in Hurst Hill Wood need very careful handling.
Environmental Health (Contamination) -
* Testing is advised for excavated material and suitability of imported material, more specific advice to be given as wider discussions develop.
Public Rights of Way -
* 'What status will the path off Gorge Road have. Highway adoption to be discussed'
* 'Bridleway circuit to be given consideration in the Turls Hill Area'
* 'Gateway improvements adjacent to school recommended'
Primary Care Trust -
* 'Large site lending itself to a large walking programme and other types of activities that other areas of Dudley could not accommodate '
Youth Leader -
* 'Would like use to contact Dudley youth council (Jody Prichard) - LIP'
* 'Would like park wardens / rangers'
6.0 General Information
Total Returns - 84
Gender
Male 53.6 percent
Female 44.0 percent
None Replies 2.4 percent
Age Groups
5 - 14 0 percent
15 - 24 0 percent
25 - 34 1.2 percent
35 - 44 14.3 percent
45 - 54 20.2 percent
55 - 64 27.4 percent
65+ 34.5 percent
None Replies 2.4 percent
Disabled
Yes 3.6 percent
No 89.3 percent
None Replies 7.1 percent
How often do you visit the park?
More than once a day 7.1 percent
Daily 25.0 percent
Weekly 28.6 percent
Monthly 16.7 percent
Yearly 8.3 percent
Never 8.3 percent
None Replies 6 percent
How do you travel to the park?
Walk 69 percent
Public Transport 1.2 percent
Cycle 2.4 percent
Car 3.6 percent
Other 1.2 percent
None Replies 22.6 percent
Why do you visit the park? (Multi Choice)
Walking/running/sport 42.9 %
Nature/wildlife interest 28.6 %
Walking the Dog 21.4 %
Play area / MUGA 17.9 %
Relaxation/scenery 27.4 %
Thoroughfare to work/school 7.1 %
Other 10.7 %
How many children do you have under 16?
0 61.9 %
1 10.7 %
2 7.1 %
3 1.2 %
4 0 %
5 0 %
6+ 0 %
None Replies 19.1 %
7.0 Implementation Cost Estimates (August 2006)
The following list provides a guide cost estimate only for the main elements for improvements within the park. It is not
intended to be a definitive list. It should be appreciated that most items will require more research & detailed
design before more accurate costings can be ascertained. It is worth considering these as minimum costs, which
could rise substantially according to higher specifications and additional requested items.
The same cost estimates have been used for 'common items' within each park, but each park will have its own
peculiarities, such as level differences, access problems, contaminated land etc. which have not been taken into
consideration at this stage. Actual costs will only be known when a tendered price is eventually submitted based on
detailed designs. It is hoped however, the costings listed below will provide a reasonable guide to assist decisions in
the prioritisation of items and to set a budget for that item.
Please also note that other constraints such as the need for planning permission, major geotechnical problems or
archaeological substructures may prevent the requested item from being implemented.
1 NEW / REPAIRED GATES & ACCESS BARRIERS (10Nr) - £8,000 - £10,000 (+/-)
2 ADDITIONAL REGULAR MAINTENANCE - To Be Confirmed
3 NEW / REPAIRED FENCING £12,000 - £14,000 (+/-)
4 (NON DMBC) HURST HILL WOOD IMPROVEMENTS - To Be Confirmed
5 (NON DMBC) CREATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF PONDS / WETLAND £40,000 - £44,000 (+/-)
6 CREATION AND IMPROVEMENT OF PONDS AND WETLAND AREAS - To Be Confirmed
7 (NON DMBC) NEW / REPAIRED GATES & ACCESS BARRIERS (5Nr) £2,000 - £3,000 (+/-)
8 PARK WARDEN / RANGER - To Be Confirmed
9 UPGRADE OF TURLS HILL BRIDLEWAY £24,000 - £27,000 (+/-)
10 ADDITIONAL LITTER BINS / DOG BINS £2,000 - £3,000 (+/-)
11 (NON DMBC) NEW / REPAIRED FENCING £6,000 - £8,000 (+/-)
12 PATH IMPROVEMENTS £75,000 - £83,000 (+/-)
13 (NON DMBC) NEW BRIDLEWAY DOWN SETTON DRIVE £15,000 - £17,000 (+/-)
14 (NON DMBC) PEDESTRIAN CROSSING POINT AT TIPTON ROAD - To Be Confirmed
15 (NON DMBC) NEW PATH FROM TENACRE FIELDS TO TIPTON ROAD £40,000 min (+/-)
16 (NON DMBC) WIDEN SCHOOL FOOTPATH / GULLY £30,000 - £37,000 (+/-)
17 REMOVAL OF 2Nr OLD PLAY AREAS £10,000 - £11,000 (+/-)
18 INCORPORATE OLD GARAGE SITE INTO PARK £5,000 - £6,000 (+/-)
19 NEW SIGNAGE £4,000 - £5,000 (+/-)
20 (NON DMBC) POSSIBLE FOOTPATH LINK FROM HIGH ARCAL TO TENACRE FIELDS £45,000 - £51,000 (+/-)
21 (NON DMBC) BRIDGE REFURBISHMENT OVER SWANBROOK BROOK - To Be Confirmed
22 BRIDGE ACROSS PARKES HALL POOL TO WRENS NEST - To Be Confirmed
NOTE:
Should all the above items be completed or be unaffordable with the allocated Liveability money it is proposed that items highlighted in the Access Audits should be considered as alternative wish list items for implementation.
8.0 Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley Landownership
A large proportion of the land show on the Turls Hill & Swanbrook Valley (TH & SV) masterplan is privately owned. As part of the public consultation a letter (see appendix) was sent to the respective private landowners along with a copy of the masterplan in order for them to make comments. This was send directly from the Parks Department. As yet we have not received any responses from these landowners.
The largest landowners are Severn Trent and AJ Mucklows who own large tracts of land at TH & SV. These landowners have also not responded to the letter. The masterplan was also sent to High Arcal School for comment as part of the extensive internal consultation. However despite a number of additional telephone calls we have not yet managed to successfully liase with the appropriate member of staff about these proposals. However it is understood that the TH&SV Friends Group already have a strong link with this School.
Unfortunately without permission of specific landowners, works cannot be undertaken. If it is deemed necessary to carryout works on non-DMBC land we will again contact the appropriate landowners.