CAMARGOKITSON URBANDESIGNCONSULTANTS

BRISBANCECITYCATALYSTPROJECT ROMASTREETTRANSFORMATION
Presentedby:MrAlexCamargoandMrGregKitson

TableofContents
ExecutiveSummary...................................................................................................................................2 1.0Vision..................................................................................................................................................3 2.0IntroductiontoRomaStreet................................................................................................................4
2.1ProjectBriefRomaStreetTransformativeArea.................................................................................................... 4 2.2UrbanDesignProcessandMethodology................................................................................................................. 5

3.0UrbanDesignTasks.............................................................................................................................6
3.1TaskOneContextualAnalysis................................................................................................................................6 3.1.1BriefBackgroundRomaStreet.................................................................................................................... 6 3.1.2BriefBackgroundInformationBrisbaneTransitCentre............................................................................... 8 3.1.3MapsandPlansRomaStreetArea.............................................................................................................. 9 3.2TaskTwoSpatialAnalysis....................................................................................................................................13 3.3TaskThreeStakeholderAnalysis......................................................................................................................... 25 3.4TaskFourConceptPlanDevelopment................................................................................................................. 27 3.5TaskFiveUrbanDesignDevelopmentRomaStreetRecommendation............................................................34

4.0SummaryandConclusion..................................................................................................................35 5.0ReferenceList....................................................................................................................................36 6.0Appendices ........................................................................................................................................37

ListofFigures
Figure1HistoricalimagesofRomaStreet...............................................................................................6 Figure2RomaStreetandRomaStreetRailwayStation..........................................................................7 Figure3BrisbaneTransitCentre.............................................................................................................8 Figure4SynthesisedContextualAnalysisofRomaStreet......................................................................14 Figures58.............................................................................................................................................17 Figures912...........................................................................................................................................18

ListofTables
Table1FiveKeyTasksforSubmission...................................................................................................18

ExecutiveSummary
This report delivers a comprehensive analysis and spatial assessment of Roma Street in Brisbane City and delivers a design option for the transformation of the area. Firstly, this report identifies vital background information to ensure the area is correctly defined. Secondly, the vision and development objectives, prescribed by Brisbane City Council, are outlined to provide a sense of direction for the design option. The report outlines and discusses the critical steps to managing a successful urban design project. Lastly, the report offers options for the redevelopment of Roma StreetasaCatalystProjectandalignstheoptimaldesignwiththedesiredoutcomesreferredtoin theCityMasterPlanforBrisbane. The investigations and analysis of Roma Street discovered that many of sites current planning issues can be resolved and the solutions offered can assist to transform the area into a new focal pointfortheCentralBusinessDistrictandleadtoabetterCitywhichresidentsarehappytolivein. TherecommendationsmadebyCamargoKitsoninthisreportinclude: The construction of a traffic tunnel directly underneath Roma Street to redirect traffic awayfrompedestriansandoutofsight Converting the reclaimed roadway to pedestrian priority greenstreet and a landscaping beautificationofthesurfacearea Incorporating green transport strategies and enhancing connectivity to Brisbanes major multimodal public transport interchange, Roma Street Station and the Brisbane Transit Centre Revitalising the Brisbane Transit Centre with a modern upgrade to the external street face andrefurbishmentoftheinternallayout ConnectingthenewRomaStreettotheplannedCrossRiverRailproject;and ThelongertermstrategytocoveroverRomaStreetRailwayStation,partiallyenclosingthe facility,andcreatinganewopengreenspaceforresidentandvisitorstotheCBD

The main limitation of this report and underlying processes is that although community surveys werecompleted,thiswasonlyaverysmallsampleofthepopulationlivinginBrisbaneandashort time frame to develop plausible solutions. However, CamargoKitson has strictly followed the objectives outlined in the project brief and guidance and feedback provided by the Brisbane City Council.
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1.0 Vision
ThenewRomaStreetwillbeBrisbanespremierepedestrianprioritygreenstreet andamplifythesymbolicimportanceoftheCityslargesttransportinterchange.A welcomingsenseofarrivaltoAustraliasmostliveablecitywillindulgevisitorsand residentsinalldirections.
Apurposebuilttraffictunnel(cutandcover)undertheexistingroadway,withportalsalongRoma Street and at the George Street intersection with Herschel Street, will allow the activation of a greenstreetalongthesurfaceofRomaStreet.Thereclaimedareawillsupportthenewdirection of green infrastructure options across the city and afford a memorable and enjoyable experience toanonwardjourney.AmodernarchitecturalmakeoveroftheBrisbaneTransitCentrewillinvite theoutdoorsinside,providingaseamlessvisualconnectionfortravellers. The dynamics of the tree lined streetscape with modern environmentally friendly built form and redirected traffic will reignite Roma Street and the Brisbane Transit Centre as an exciting focal point of the western fringe and newest landmark for the city. An exciting destination, the new RomaStreetwillsupportandreinforcetheobjectivesofothercitycentrecatalystprojectsby: revitalisingbuildingsandcreatingnewmemorableoutdoorareas improvinglinksandenhancingintegrationofthepublictransportnetwork freeingpedestrianandtrafficinteractionforseamlessaccessandmovement supportingactivetransportoptionsthroughthevitalcorridorandonwards;and showcasinganinvitingbalanceofprivateandpublicspace ThelongertermvisiontobuildoverRomaStreetRailwaystationandcreateanewgreenareawill enhance connectivity between Roma Street Parklands and Southbank, via the Kurilpa Bridge. This new open green space will reflect the Citys subtropical look and feel. Interacting with the Cross RiverRailProjectandplannedportals,thisnewgreenspacewillsupportthesenseofarrivalatthe gatewaytothecitycentre.

2.0 IntroductiontoRomaStreet
ThissectionprovidesrelevantinformationabouttheCatalystProjectBrieffromtheBrisbaneCity Council; brief information about Roma Street and the Brisbane Transit Centre (BTC); and a brief summary of the urban design process and activities undertaken to create the transformative area andnewRomaStreet.

2.1

ProjectBriefRomaStreetTransformativeArea

Shortly, Brisbane City Council (BCC) will release a new City Centre Master Plan to guide development and renewal of the Central Business District. In October 2012, BCC approved the new Vision for the CCMP, Our Vision: Open City, Outdoor: Accessible: Inviting: Free (Brisbane City Council 2012). At present, BCC is hosting a design and ideas festival, concluding in May. Design professionals, students and residents are invited to consider new innovative ideas and proposeconceptsthatwillrenewandimprove16transformativesitesintheCityCentre,including Roma Street (Brisbane City Council 2013). The overall objectives for this project are as follows: (BrisbaneCityCouncil2013) to humanize the arrival experience between Roma street station and the rest of the city byprovidingclear,sageandattractiveconnections toexploreopportunitiesforarchitecturaltransformationofthetransitcentre to produce concepts that inspire and capture the public imagination as well as stimulating discussionanddebateaboutopportunitiestotransformCityCentre to provide an overall vision and direction on the identified transformative areas and produceconceptsforuseintheCityCentreMasterPlandocument to produce high quality graphics oriented towards a general audience that clearly capture thekeyideasandcityshapingopportunitiesofthescheme (BrisbaneCityCouncil2013) Consultantsarerequiredtoprovidetwooutputswiththeirsubmissionintheformof: A1sizeposterwhichthatincludes: DesignVision/Rationaleapproximately300words ConceptPlanAnoverallplan(planoraerial) Beforeandaftergraphics/picture Supportinggraphics(sketches,perspectives,crosssectionetc) Specificationsoffinaldeliverablestobeprovidedasfollows: Postersshouldbelegibleatadistanceofapproximately3metres A high resolution (600dpi) .jpg files to enable reuse in the Master Plan document ordisplayedonCouncilswebsite,mediareleasesandothermarketcollateral A4sizeUrbanDesignProjectFoliothatincludes: a holistic and integrated composition of the collated materials from the five tasks describedinTable1 adesignvision,conceptplan,beforeandafterviewdepictingpriorityprojectoutcomes other supporting presentation graphics as evidence showing the achievement of the set criteriafortheassessmentandincludingaconclusionandrecommendations.
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(BrisbaneCityCouncil2013) Table1FiveKeyTasksforSubmission Task 1 Description identifythesite conduct an assessment of how people are using space to assist in raising your own questions and hypotheses about the issues and challenges facing a specific urban area/space documentobservationsandperceptionsaboutthephysicalenvironment appraisetheexistingcontext. contextualise the urban design problem present various parameters of the project projectthroughmapsandanalysis identify various stakeholders and elicit their issues and concerns through appropriate methodology (i.e. interview, focus group to elicit views and opinions) and determine howthismayaffectdesignschemesandoptions based on the results of the various analyses, develop a concept plan and integral themefortheurbandesign developtheurbandesignproposalforthechosensite (BrisbaneCityCouncil2013)

2 3

4 5

2.3

UrbanDesignProcessandMethodology

The urban design process and methodology undertaken by CamargoKitson to produce the concept plan for Roma Street aligns with the instructions prescribed by the BCC (refer to section 2.1) and all tasks were carried out during March and April 2013. To better understand the BCCs desired outcomes for Roma Street and to enhance design options and planning, the following list ofdocumentswerereviewedandconsultedforguidance: AVisionforourCity:CityMasterPlan2012 Graphicsintheurbandesignprocess:Chapters1to6 TheUrbanDesignGuidanceManual CreatingPlacesforPeople:AnUrbanDesignProtocolforAustralianCities BrisbaneCityCentrePlanningStrategy:BuildingaLiveableCityHeart GoogleMapsspecificallyRomaStreetandsurrounds Historicalinformationinrelationtolanduseatthesite BrisbaneCityCouncilWebsite

The purpose for reviewing these documents is to ensure best practice during the design process andto: aligntoexistingdevelopmentpoliciesforRomaStreetasprescribedbytheBCC reviewearlierdecisionsfromconsultationcompletedbytheBCCinrelationtothearea ensure that the optimal design developing Roma Street development is carried out in accordancewithAustralianurbandesignguidelines planninghistoryoftheareaandexistingfeaturesofthearea identificationofdevelopmentconstraints(desktopaudit) localinitiatives(IdeasFiesta) realisetheimportanceofthearea
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3.0 UrbanDesignTasks
This section provides a brief statement in relation to the each of the five tasks and activities undertakentocompleteeachtask.

3.1

TaskOneContextualAnalysis

CamargoKitson understands contextual analysis to be a desktop site location identification exercise that includes a brief history of the area, a sequence of maps and plans with an accompanying short appraisal that describes the area and includes data collected from early observations. To identify the location of Roma Street, a brief history of the Roma Street Area and Brisbane Transit Centre is summarised. Also, a series of maps illustrating the local and strategic context of thesiteweresourcedanddevelopedusingGooglemaps.

3.1.1 BriefBackgroundRomaStreet

The very early history of Roma Street and the surrounding is documented with evidence of Aboriginal populations and culture and early European settlers witnessed large gatherings of various Aboriginal tribes for ceremonial purposes. In 1825, land use was dramatically altered by the establishment of the Moreton Bay Penal Colony. The area was eventually subdivided by 1840 and over time was used for various purposes including an orphanage, farming, saleyards, produce markets, Brisbane Grammar School and eventually the construction of the Roma Street Railway StationandRailYardin1911,seeninFigure1(QueenslandGovernment2004).

(Bonzle2013) Figure 1 Roma Street Station and Rail Yards in the late 1800s. To the right, the original Roma Street Railway Station remains at the exisiting site, although it is boxed in by the Brisbane Transit Centre and new Railway Infrastructre.Totheleft,theveryearlystagesoftherailwayyards,thepictureprovidescontextofthelargeparcel ofland.

Prior to an extensive exaction to flatten the area for rail infrastructure, the site was characterised byverysteepslopes.Theartificialescarpmentfromtheearlyexcavationisvisibleattheboundary of the rail yards with Albert Park. Roma Street Railway station is the major terminus for Brisbanes metropolitan and Queenslands longdistance rail network. Although, the station infrastructure covers only the south east corner of this very large parcel of crown land (Queensland Government 2004). Today, the dominant land uses at the site are Roma Street, Roma Street Railway Station, Roma Street Parklands, Brisbane Transit Centre and the Queensland PoliceHeadHeadquarters,asseeninfigure2(QueenslandGovernment2004).
Figure 2 clearly shows the dominant land uses for the Roma Street area. The land parcel for Rail Infrastructure is large and uninviting. This area is well hidden at street view from Roma Street by the BTC. However, the view shown is from Albert Street to the North which connects to the Roma Street parklands. The contrast between the two land uses is stark and inconsistent. The view of Roma Street is very plain and dominated by concrete structures and bitumen. The street can only be described as bare and baron and hardly worth visiting, unless you are in transit. Hardly the desired welcome to the

Figure2RomaStreetandRomaStreetRailwayStation

3.1.2 BriefBackgroundInformationBrisbaneTransitCentre
Opened in 1986, the Brisbane Transit Centre (BTC) is a purpose built multimodal transport hub located on Roma Street and is the gateway to Roma Street Railway station and Roma Street Busway Station. The BTC incorporatestwo commercial office towers, retail shops, eatery, car park and a coach terminal that partially covers the railway station. In 2008, The Brisbane City Council approvedthesiteforredevelopmentandfortheconstructionoftwintowersupto33storeysand refurbishmenttotheinternalfacilities(BrisbaneTransitCentre2013).
Figure 4 illustrates the BTCs dominationoftheRomaStreet area and Streetscape. The early construction indicates theimposingheightandlength of the building and its rise as a focalpointofthearea. Construction in 1986, and heralded as a turning point in the history of the site and residents welcomed the completion of a, then, modern facility to welcome visitors to the growing Brisbanes growing City Centre (Queensland Government 2004).

The building surface is comprised of concrete in the bottom floors and coated with a rough exposed aggregate concrete texture. The top floors are tinted glass and steel. The building aligns with Roma Street and creates the northern frame for the streetscape. However, the structure is no 26 years of age minimal upgrading has occurred. Today, the building hosts the original internal dcor and external facia. Overall, the structure is considered dull and cheap in Figure3BrisbaneTransitCentre2013(BrisbaneTransitCentre2013)

3.1.3

MapsandPlansRomaStreetArea

RomaStreet,BasicPlan

Map one illustrates the location of Roma Street from a birdseye view and the shows the sites relationship and connectivity to other major sites in Brisbane City. Illustrated in red, it is made clear that, as a central site, Roma Street is considered as a major starting point to several other key destinations within the City Centre, including Suncorp Stadium, Roma Street Parklands, City BotanicalGardens,CentralStationandtheinnerCBD. The area is located at western fringe of the CBD, adjacent to the Brisbane River before it straightensandmeandersawaytowardtheinnerWesternsuburbs.

RomaStreet,StrategicContext

(GoogleMaps) Map two identifies the location of Roma Street in a strategic context to the surrounding city. The large yellow circle indicates a ten kilometre radius from the City Centre and the red dot indicates that Roma Street is in fact in the Central Heart of metropolitan Brisbane. The facilities offered at the site (described earlier) and the central location reinforces the importance of the area and ongoing role as a major destination from all directions of the sprawling metropolitan areas of Brisbane. Recognising the areas importance is a strong factor to influencing the urban redesign of the site and its many features. However, the centrality of the area should not become the dominant factor in the identity of the new Roma Street. Relph (1976) argues that places should be interestingintheirownrightandnotfortheirlocation.Also,thatimprovedknowledgeofaplace, area and site will assist to manipulate it to a recreated expression of its inhabitants (Carmona, Tiesdell2007).Themainissueidentifiedinthecontextualanalysisis,atpresent,theareaandsite are used only as a point of redistribution of travellers. There is almost nil opportunity for residents to stay on site for extended periods and an unpleasant arrival for commuters and visitorsandcertainlynotonetoadvertisetheCBDasamodern,subtropicalliveableCityCentre.
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RomaStreet,LocalContextA

(GoogleMaps) RomaStreet,LocalContextB

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RomaStreet,LocalContextC

Again, maps three, four and five identify the location of Roma Street in context the Brisbane Central Business District (CBD). Each illustrate main roads, adjacent buildings, green space, traffic intersectionsanddisconnectedopenspaceimmediatelyatthesiteornearby.Mapfivetheclearly identifiestheareasofopportunitythatexistalongRomaStreetandadjacenttothesite.Thedata collected and during the site visits and the location appraisals has allowed identification of a number of preliminary issues for consideration of the optimal design for transforming the area, theyinclude: Pedestrianmovementandnumbers(highfrequency) TrafficissuesandParkingcapacity LackofsafebicycleroutealongRomaStreet Capitalforredevelopment RestricteddevelopmentasprescribedinthecurrentBrisbaneCityMasterPlan Maintainingthesiteasamixedusezone Lackofopenspace(greenareas)andsocialamenities
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3.2

TaskTwoSpatialAnalysis

CamargoKitson understands spatial analysis to be an extension to the contextual analysis and a morefocussedassessmentofthequalityofthespaceandareatoassistindevelopingappropriate strategiestodeliverchangesandenhancements.DuringMarchandApril,usingappropriateskills, CamargoKitson conducted field visits to Roma Street to collect data through observation and document the physical environment using a series of maps and synthesised observations that: definetheareaboundaries identifyissues understandtheplace definelocalcharacter(oldandnew) identifyneeds (Placecheck2013) To maximise the objectives of the field visits and to capture all relevant information, CamargoKitson developed a field Observation Plan (refer to Appendix 1) and Observation Template.Thetemplatecapturesinformationinrelationto: Traffic landuse roads builtform noise/sensory publictransport pedestrianbehavior locationaesthetics amenitiesand landmark footpathaccess footpathaccess Relevant maps, photographs and observation details were synthesised into a single diagram at figure five on the following page. Figure five represents the dominant land uses along Roma Street movement of pedestrians along and across the roadway and footpaths. Pedestrians and traffic can be seen interacting and groups of people congregating on the footpath. A major criticism of the current streetscape is the lack of landscaping, outdoor seating, public amenities and landmarks that memorable landmarks. Also, CamargoKitson synthesised the results of the field observations into a single document. Photographs on pages 17 and 18 visually identify and provide comments on the many issues identified at Roma Street. Coupled with the observation syntheses,aseriesof12maps/illustrationswerecompletedidentifytheareas: greenspaces openspaces pedestrianlinks footpathsandbicycleaccess opportunitiesandconstraints keyareasforredevelopment strategictransportlinks roadslayout landuses builtform capture evidence for future planning potential considerdevelopmentpotential engagewiththecommunity immersion

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Figure4SynthesisedContextualAnalysisofRomaStreet

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SYNTHESISED FIELD OBSERVATION WORKSHEET GROUP: Alex Camargo and Greg Kitson SITE: Brisbane Transit Centre/Roma Street (including Roma St Rail & Bus stations) DATE: March 2013 Various Times WEATHER: Sunny/Cloudy/Rain Showers OBSERVATION POINT: Main Entry to BTC on Roma Street, Western and Easter Ends of Roma Street, Opposite Main Entry to BTC TRAFFIC BUILT FORM PEDESTRIANS .High/Medium/Low traffic volumes, noise, low/med/high levels, age, condition are there workers (type), students, pollution, vehicle type, bicycles children, what are they doing, where are Built form largely consists of concrete, coming from, where are they going to? Steady flow of traffic, in groups glass and steel materials Estimate the numbers Cars, buses and delivery trucks and Paved walkways and access points vans A mix of low-medium-high buildings and Office workers, backpackers, also a mix of ages (estimate the oldest is tradespeople, general public, police, 100 years and the most modern under teenagers, school students, university construction) students Internally, the BTC has vast areas of Travelling home, to work, loitering, unused space meeting, smoking, farewelling, eating, A large car park space sitting, playing, crossing the road, driving and working Mixed very young to very old, most people in 20-50 age group LAND USES NOISE/ SENSORY Brief shower caused people to group .what are the land uses of the site and .describe the noise levels and types, feel of under shelter on BTC side of Roma St adjacent sites the siteis it saw In the time spent at the site at least 200 people were observed doing the activities Mixed-use zones incorporating retail, Traffic high noise level listed above residential, transport corridors, office Pedestrian medium noise level People were observed talking in groups, and commercial and green Construction low noise level standing in silence and sitting in silence space/recreational on the stairs to the BTC The site is generally unwelcoming, un There is a lack of outdoor seating inspiring, dated, boring and wasted space. The railway station entry is more modern looking than the BTC. The internal fit out of the BTC is like walking into a time warp and is dull. The landscaping is limited.

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LOCATION AESTHETICS/VIEWS is the site tidy, clean, orderly, planned well, lines of visibility, The location is fantastic, close to all amenities of the CBD The BTC is dated, ugly and is in danger of being an eye sore amongst the new styles of construction that are next to the site The site enjoys high visibility on along Roma St and side streets Internal aesthetics are reasonable, but again are very dated.

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT .are there any natural features, what are they? Limited landscaping in and around the BTC Large trees line Roma Street at the CBD end. Limited landscaping along Roma St, Makerston St and Garrick St Emily Miller Place and Roma Street Parklands are close to the BTC (within walking distance. The site lacks balance with built and natural environment/interaction

FOOTPATHS/ACCESS describe the available space for pedestrian movement and access Footpaths are narrow at the immediate entry to the BTC. Footpaths widen in front of QLD Police HQ and Magistrates Courts. Footpaths on the BTC side of Roma St widen at allocated City Council Bus Stop area and parallel to the BTC Car Park. Footpaths are standard along Emily Miller Place and alongside the QEII Court Buildings Four Street Level Signalled Pedestrian Crossings exists along Roma Street An elevated pedestrian crossing passes over Roma St connecting the Level 2 Eastern Access Point to the BTC and to Street Level on George St (where in intersects with Herschel Street). Adequate signage exists in and around Roma St AMENITIES & LANDMARKS what amenities exist at the site, are there any landmarks? Food Court (eatery fast food) BTC is a landmark Roma St Station is a Landmark (houses a heritage listed building Retail Traders Hotel (Landmark) QLD Police HQ (Landmark) Public Toilets, Phones, Lockers, Rubbish Bins, Bike Racks Office

ROADS describe roads and access points Sealed bitumen at 6 lanes, separated by a concreted median strip (3 lanes left and right) Five sets of traffic signals. Four with signalled pedestrian access and one with signalled cycle access 2 side Streets (Makerston and Garrick) Roma Street is a major gateway to the CBD and connects to roads leading to cross river locations and the internal CBD grid

PUBLIC TRANSPORT .is there public transport, what type? BTC is a Major Transport Node (Translink, private coach, cycle and foot) Roma Street Rail Station Inner Northern Busway Private Coaches (intrastate and national) Taxis Cycles (private and city cycle) Foot Traffic The Site serves as a major transfer site to onward journeys

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PhotographsRomaStreetMarchApril

Figure5facingeasttowardCBD.Buildingsframetheroadwaywithqbareminimumof landscaping.Vehicleaccessdominatesthelandscape.Theareaisuninvitingto pedestrians

Figure7Again,concretedominatesthestreetscapeatpedestrianlevel.Although, easeofmovementforpedestriansisachieved,landscapingisnonexistent,thebuilding frontageisinactiveandtrafficnoiseandpollutionmakestheareaunsightly.

Figure6thewesterngatewaytoRomaStreetisdominatedbyroadway,carparking space.AlthoughfootpathaccessisreasonableatthisendofRomaStreet,thefootpath narrowssignificantlydirectlyoutsideoftheBC,oneofthemaincongregationpoints.

Figure 8 Roma Street Railway Station is the dominant adjacent land use to Roma Street. Cross River Rail is planned for construction under this area. Opportunity exists tobuildoverthestationandpartiallycovertheareawithnewgreenspace 17

PhotographsRomaStreetMarchApril

Figure3TheBTCmainentryfromRomaStreetisgenerallydated,bleakanddominated byconcrete.ThetransitionfromRailStationconcoursetostreetisobstructedbya concretewall.Theareaissmallandnotprotectedfromrainandwind.

Figure5theinternaldecorandfitoutoftheBTCreflectsthe1980sconstruction.The buildingspacesareunderutilisedandalmostdesertedatdayandnight.

Figure4viewacrossRomaStreetfrommainentrytoBTC.Asixlaneroadwaycutsthe mixofbuildingsandisthelocationofthemajorpedestriancrossing.Limitedactivity occursonthebaronstreetscape,thearealacksopportunityforsocialinteraction.

Figure6theeasternendofRomaStreetachievesabalancebetweennatural environmentandbuiltform.Pedestrianaccessandbicyclemovementisimproved dramatically

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GreenSpaceRomaStreet
The Green Space analysis clearly indicates the minimal land use provided in the vicinity of Roma Street. Although, Emma Miller Place has public seating and shade, the smaller parcel of green space is more a public garden for viewing and not recommended for recreation due to its size and location next to a major hotel. GreenSpaceEmmaMillerPlace

PublicSpaceRomaStreet
The existing amount of open public space indicates a small percentage level in comparison to the overall Roma Street area. The very thin ribbon of public space immediately at thefrontoftheBTCis inadequate for the amount of pedestrian movement observed at the site. The open space at the eastern end of Roma Street appears to be well connected, accessible andwalkable. PublicSpace(Footpaths,Park,PlazaBrisbaneCourts)

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StrategicPedestrianLinkstoUrbanAreaandOpenSpacesRomaStreet
The analysis of strategic pedestrian links indicates that a very high level of pedestrian movement along Roma Street, George street and Tanks Street, to the Kuripla Bridge.Theimpacton traffic leads to traffic congestion during peak times. The key factor to learn from this analysis is to maintain the current levelandimprovethe walkability options of at the BTC and surroundingarea. StrategicPedestrianLinks(e.g.KingGeorgeSquare,QueenSt,KurilpaBridge)

KeyOpportunitiesandConstraintsRomaStreet
Key opportunities are: widenfootpaths landscaping revitaliseBTC develop over rail station moremixeduses creation of open publicspace Keyconstraintsare: trafficvolumes private ownership of BTC railinfrastructure governmentfunding objectionfrom motorists

Footpathsandlandscaping RomaStreetRailwayStation 20 BrisbaneTransitCentre

AreasforpotentialdevelopmentRomaStreet
Based on the

analysis undertaken and the already to

objectives

transform the area, the potential areas for development are Roma Street, Roma Street Station Infrastructure Railway and

FootpathsandCyclePathsRomaStreet
Footpaths are located on both sides of Roma Street and are heavily utilised by pedestrians leaving the BTC. The footpaths are

considered to be too narrow. A dedicated cycle path is located along George Street. However, the cycle path is removed at the intersection Roma Street with and

HerschelStreet.

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RoadinfrastructureRomaStreet
The analysis of road infrastructure indicated a six lane roadway for Roma Street and a four lane roadway for George Street. The point

where George Street intersects with Roma Street creates a

triangle of unused space. The

convergence of the two roads often

causes traffic issues duringpeaktimes.

PedestrianmovementRomaStreet
Pedestrian movement along Roma Street toward the BTC is heavy during peak times and a steady constant outside of peak times.

Pedestrian movement is obstructed due to the single crossing point to the BTC on Roma Street.

Pedestrian movement is also constrained by traffic flows from

GeorgeStreet.

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PublicTransportoptionsRomaStreet
Public transport options are abundant at Roma Street.

Commuters can travel by rail, bus, city cycle and on foot. The metropolitan, and interstate state rail inner

networks,

northern busway, us network, airport inner dedicated connections, city and

suburban cycle paths and city footpath are all

network

options

available to

residentsandvisitors.

Two main land uses were identified. Land use in the area is dominated commercial There are by activity. few

LandusetypesRomaStreet

residential land use options. Some land use was not clearly evidenced.

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BuiltFormRomaStreet
Built form at Roma Street and the

surrounds consists of road rail high infrastructure, infrastructure, rise building

(above 3 floors) and multistory buildings (3 floors maximum). The built form

materialsareconcrete, steel, timber and

bitumen

PotentialsolutionsforredevelopmentRomaStreet
A number of potential solutions were identified during including: developing the facia and gatewaytotheBTC installing a dedicated cycle path along Roma Street Incorporation of more green space along Roma Street Separating vehicle and pedestrian interaction alongRomaStreet this analysis,

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3.3

TaskThreeStakeholderAnalysis

CamargoKitson acknowledges that the structured involvement of all stakeholders at selected times throughout planning process is a vital element to a successful urban design output (AustralianGovernment2011). Astakeholderanalysisbriefquestionnairewascompleted(Appendix3)andusedduringinterviews withinterestedstakeholders.Ageneralmatrixofstakeholderswascompletedwasdevelopedand consideredduringthedesignprocess(refertoAppendix3).Thekeystakeholdersidentifiedduring thedesignprocessinclude: Ten members of the public were interviewed for their personal views, comments and ideas in relation to the Roma Street Transit Centre as a transformative area within the Brisbane Central BusinessDistrict.Teninterviewswerecompletedwithpersonsofthefollowingdetails: FiveMale FiveFemale Aged1752 OccupationUnemployed(1),Policeman(1),OfficeWorkers(5),Student(2)Railwayworker(1) ModeoftransportBus(3),Train(5),Car(1)andBicycle(1) In relation to questions one, all persons interviewed liked the idea of a renewal plan for Roma Street. Two persons interviewed commented that it is about time, that this end of the City was renewed.Onepersonhadworkedintheareaforeightyearsandcommentedanewleaseonlife isrequiredinthisarea.
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buildingowners commuters natureandenvironment financiers/banks QueenslandGovernment BrisbaneCityCouncil localresidents visitors pedestrians planningprofessionals communityinterestgroups

cyclists motorists interestgroups Queenslandpolice QueenslandRail RetailBusinesses TheTranscontinentalHotel LegalAidQLD TradersHotel Telstra

All interviewees agreed that more greenery is required along Roma Street. One person made the distinction of nearby parks to the dull look of the Transit Centre and Roma Street. Six persons were not satisfied with pedestrian access immediately at the front of the Transit Centre. As a suggestion,onepersonsuggestedanundergroundmallsimilartothatatPostOfficeSquareinthe CBDheart,commentingthiscouldallowpedestriansandtraffictomovefreelyandsafely. In relation to the third question, the majority of persons interviewed were of the opinion that to narrow the roadway to allow improved pedestrian access was a positive idea. Also, support was given for a mix of newer buildings that allowed for residential, shopping and car parking. Two persons did not agree with the widening of sidewalks. However, when indication was given that this could improve more green space in the area for beautification, those opposed changed their viewstosupportsuchastrategy. Three persons believed that any green projects for the area should be subtropical to reflect the nearby Roma Street Parklands. All believed that more trees and green space would transform the area, making it more inviting to visit and to not neglect. Suggestions include: plants and trees in themedianstrip,gardenbedsandtreesalongfootpathsandevenacrosstheoverheadfootbridge. The Brisbane Transit Centre and Roma Street road corridor were the two main features intervieweeswouldliketoseeredeveloped.ThreeintervieweescitedtheRomaStreetRailyards. One person said to demolish the transit centre and start again. Finally, few persons were excited to hear that the Brisbane City Council is interested in redeveloping the area. Six persons thoughtthattheentireareawasnotbeingusedtoitsfullpotential.

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3.4

TaskFourConceptPlanDevelopment

CamargoKitson recognises that effective urban design guidance brings together the perspectives of people who may have a range of conflicting interests. Each of the stakeholders listed and interviewed in section four have each provided valuable insights to the concept plan. Combining the contextual and spatial analysis with the desires of the BCCs design brief guided CamargoKitson to two realistic options. The main contributing factors for the options presented below are to separate the interaction between vehicles and pedestrians and to maximise the opportunityformoreopengreenspacealongRomaStreetandthesurroundingarea.Theoptions wererefinedduringmeetingswiththeBCCduringApril2013.

Option1Undergroundpedestrianmallandtunnels
This proposal is for the construction of a purpose built pedestrian facility directly under the Roma Street roadway. Connections to the BTC and portals along Roma Street and George Street would allow for the seamless movement of pedestrians to and from the BTC and to onward journeys. Theundergroundfacilitywouldhostretailopportunitiesandservicesforthegeneralpublic. On the surface, the Roma Street roadway would be narrowed to allow for the widening of footpaths and installation of a dedicated cycle path. The narrowing of the roadway would also allow for increased landscaping and improved pedestrian access and movement. Three Transformative Areas are identifiedand the following opportunities could be realised (preliminary designsandsketchesareavailableonpages2830): TransformativeAreaA(ShortTermStrategyandSolutions) wideningoffootpaths narrowingofroadwaytotwolaneseachway attheWesternGatewaytheintroductionofalandmarkfeature(PublicArtetc.)toimprove thesenseofarrivaltotheCBD intensification of landscaping (tree planting in median strip, garden beds and trees along widenedfootpaths DedicatedBicycleLanes(CityCouncilStandardGreenPath)alongRomaStreetonboth Sides to connect with dedicated bicycle lanes on George Street and Upper Roma Street Greenery will improve Green Path surface connectivity to Roma Street Parklands, Emma MillerPlace,EMcCormickPlaceetc. Allactionsaddressissueswithpoorpedestrianaccess,greenspaceandattractive

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TransformativeAreaB(ShorttoMediumTermStrategyandsolutions) Apart from the ground floor, the upper floors of the Transit Centre are not utilised well and the BCCcouldworkwiththeownersonjointprojectstoimproveuse,including: TransformativeAreaC(LongTermStrategy) encloseRomaStreetRailwayStationandcoveritwithanewparkandgardenfacility Lawnsandexerciseareas. ThiswillimprovesurfaceaccesstoRomaStreetParklandsandcreateanewopenspacefor theRomaStreetPrecinctoftheCBD The BTC would receive an internal refurbishment and upgrade to the facia of the building with glass so that views are continuous from the inside and with limited obstruction from theoutside. Shorttermaccommodationandamenitiesforpeopleintransit(interstate/intrastate) AsupermarkettosupportnewresidentialprojectsatRomaStreet Dedicatedbicyclecentre(similartoRBWHandKingGeorgeSquare)to EncouragedifferenttransportoptionstoandfromtheCBD OfficeSpace Smallerareaforinterstatecoachtravelpassengers

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Option1Undergroundpedestrianmallandtunnelsdesigns(streetview)

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Option1Undergroundpedestrianmallandtunnelsdesigns(panview)

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Option1Undergroundpedestrianmallandtunnelsdesigns(planview)

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Option2TraffictunnelandcreationofGreenStreet
The second and preferred option is to construct a vehicle tunnel (cut and cover method) directly under the existing Roma Street Roadway with tunnel portals at the eastern and western ends of Roma Street and at the intersection of George Street and Hershel Street. The separation of vehicles and pedestrians will allow unobstructed movement of vehicles along Roma Street and safe and seamless movement of pedestrians along the surface of Roma Street. The following opportunitiescouldberealisedthroughthisoption(thefinaldesignisavailableonpage33): RomaStreetSurfaceArea attheWesternGatewaytheintroductionofalandmarkfeature(PublicArtetc.)toimprove thesenseofarrivaltotheCBD intensification of landscaping (tree planting along the reclaimed area, garden beds and treesalongwidenedfootpaths DedicatedBicycleLanes(CityCouncilStandardGreenPath)alongRomaStreetonboth Sides to connect with dedicated bicycle lanes on George Street and Upper Roma Street Greenery will improve Green Path surface connectivity to Roma Street Parklands, Emma MillerPlace,EMcCormickPlaceetc. Allactionsaddressissueswithpoorpedestrianaccess,greenspaceandattractive

BrisbaneTransitCentre Shorttermaccommodationandamenitiesforpeopleintransit(interstate/intrastate) AsupermarkettosupportnewresidentialprojectsatRomaStreet Dedicatedbicyclecentre(similartoRBWHandKingGeorgeSquare)to EncouragedifferenttransportoptionstoandfromtheCBD OfficeSpace Smallerareaforinterstatecoachtravelpassengers RomaStreetRailwayStation encloseRomaStreetRailwayStationandcoveritwithanewparkandgardenfacility Lawnsandexerciseareas. ThiswillimprovesurfaceaccesstoRomaStreetParklandsandcreateanewopenspacefor theRomaStreetPrecinctoftheCBD The BTC would receive an internal refurbishment and upgrade to the facia of the building with glass so that views are continuous from the inside and with limited obstruction from theoutside.

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3.5 TASK F IVE U RBAN D ESIGN D EVELOPMENT R OMA S TREET R ECOMMENDATION

CamargoKitson considered both of the design option at length. It was decided that Option 2 is the recommended design for the Transformation of Roma Street. An important element in the decision is the fact that Brisbane is not yet a 24 hour city and pedestrian movement is almost nonexistent at night. It was decided that to move pedestrians underground would create possible safety issues and dehumanise the arrival experience between Roma street station and the rest of the city. It is thought that option two is better equipped to provide a more attractive solution and responds better to the objectives of the design brief. Architectural transformation is still made possible with option and provides a unique opportunity for a new architectural landscapefeaturefortheCityCentre. At the economic level, Roma Streets strategic position allows it to capitalise on the economic opportunities offered by Brisbanes CBD. The Brisbane Transit Centre offers access to Brisbanes DomesticandInternationalAirportsandtomanyofSouthEastQueenslandsattractions,including those within the CBD. Again, Roma Street has the potential to be landmark location that can benefit from its high level of accessibility, connective potential to open space and opportunity for redevelopment of public land. Any nearby future construction of residential projects can support the area to evolve into a true mixeduse neighbourhood, with features of historical and contemporarybuiltformandoneofsustainableliving. Roma Street is a key location in the City Centre hierarchy of places, and has the potential to offer an improved variety of business and employment opportunities that will stimulate the areas ongoing prosperity for local residents and workers. Potential exists to revitalise the neighbourhood with new residents, convenience shops and services within easy walking distance. New development is immediately supported by already existing transport infrastructure and commerciallanduse. Improving connectivity to key nearby destinations, attractions and services within the CBD and focussing on sustainable transport options and pedestrian access will complement the existing network available from the Roma Street hub. Pedestrians and cyclists will be provided with convenientaccesspointsthroughouttheareaandtoopenspaceandcommunityfacilitiesthatare walkable to and safe. The railway and bus stations ensure that all visitors can connect to local, regional,nationalandinternationaldestinations.
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AnattractiverenewalofRomaStreetintoaboulevardthatfeaturessubtropicalgardensandtrees that interact with highquality building redevelopment and upgrades. Footpaths along Roma Street and nearby side streets will become attractive and functional and fulfil the need for pedestrianstomovefreelyandsafelyinthenewlycreatedgreenspace.

4.0 SummaryandConclusion
Roma Street, like many public spaces, is an important site for social, economic and cultural activities in the City Centre. This project has attempted to improve the area through a rigorous assessment and design process. The analysis identified goals for urban design related to safe pedestrian movement, a large scale multimodal transport hub transit and increases in public green spaces for the enjoyment of the community. Two preliminary ideas were selected for designapplicationaftercarefulconsiderationofthecontextual,spatialandstakeholderanalyses. Throughout the process, CamargoKitson discovered that that many of the required solutions to align with the broader plans of BCC could be achieved through separation of pedestrian and vehicle interaction. Extra green space creates a more comfortable and natural experience in a worlddominatedbyconcreteandsteel. The proposed design will increases the general walkability of the neighbourhood. Improved bicycle infrastructure builds on the multimodal and connectivity assets already present at Roma Street and also adds to the cycling infrastructure of the Brisbane. All the improvements displayed in this project aimed to not only make the experience more comfortable for residents and visitors toRomaStreet,butalsotomakethisspaceavaluedmoreassetinthecommunity.

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5.0 ReferenceList
AustralianGovernment2011,CreatingPlacesforPeople:AnurbandesignprotocolforAustralian Cities,DepartmentofInfrastructureandTransport,Canberra,Australia2600 Bonzle2013,RomaStreetRailwayStation1888,viewed24April2013, http://www.bonzle.com/c/a?a=pic&fn=ysiz2rzy&s=2 BrisbaneCityCouncil2012,AVisionforourCity:CityCentreMasterPlan2012,BrisbaneCity Council,Brisbane4001 BrisbaneCityCouncil2013,CityCentreTransformativeAreasandpriorityelements:Student InformationBriefCityCentreMasterPlan,BrisbaneCityCouncil,Brisbane,pp.57 BrisbaneTransitCentre2013,viewed24April2013,http://www.brisbanetransitcentre.com.au Carmona.M.,Tiesdell.S.2007,UrbanDesignReader,ArchitecturalPress,Oxford,UnitedKingdom Cowan.R.,2002,UrbanDesignGuidance:Checklistforpreparingurbandesignguidance,Thomas TelfordPublishing,1HeronQuay,London Cowan.R.,2002,UrbanDesignGuidance:Introduction,ThomasTelfordPublishing,1HeronQuay, London QueenslandGovernment2004,Historicaloverview:RomaStreetParklandprecinct,Brisbane, viewed24April2013,http://www.aila.org.au/projects/qld/roma/docs/HistoryEBrochure.pdf Placecheck2013,UrbanDesignSkills,viewed20April2013,http://www.placecheck.info RomaStreetRedevelopment,viewed24April2013 http://www.rawsonplace.esmartdesign.com/notebook/339/notebook.htm

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Appendices
AppendixOne Roma St (Brisbane Transit Centre) observation plan Students: Ismael Alejandro Munoz Camargo - 42570576 Gregory Kitson - 42487535 Materials: Observation Template (includes Sketching space), Pencils, Cameras (Smartphones), Hi-Vis Safety Vests (UQ/GPEM), Appropriate footwear Video camera: Alejandro & Greg Site visits: Alejandro & Greg Morning, midday and evening (peak and off peak) between March-April including weekends. At least twice a week. Information recorded and observed from multiple locations at the transformative site (TBA). Observations to be recorded: Alejandro & Greg Mix people. What do you see? What are they doing? Why they are there? What activities are they doing? Do they look comfortable? Try to be selective *Footpaths and cycle ways and Pedestrian movement Road/Street types Public transport networks Land use Building height and types Active frontage Density Nodes Landmarks and monuments Views Open Spaces Other aspects: character areas, designated areas, listed Buildings, historic evolution Pay particular attention to anything that seems to you unusual or odd. Sketch Diagrams: Alejandro & Greg

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Appendix 2

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